Senior Planner (CUPE 39.21) (PFT)
Norfolk County, Canada

Basic Function:

To provide professional planning analysis and advice on land use planning matters having regard to the Planning Act, and other related legislation, regulations, policy and planning principles. Responsible for assisting the Director, Planning in reporting and providing advice on land use planning matters. Responsible for independently managing planning projects, conducting studies and preparing and presenting reports for County Council. Undertakes data collection, maintenance and analysis, advises individuals and organized bodies on planning matters, provides evidence at hearings, represents the Planning Department before committees, and directs the work of others in carrying out these duties.

Position Description:

• To lead and implement longrange policy planning projects including, but not limited to Official Plan Updates, provincial policy conformity projects, land use and design plans, growth management studies.
• To evaluate development proposals through the use of professional judgement ensuring compliance with the requirements of affected agencies, planning principles, and the interpretation of Provincial and County land use policies and regulations and to prepare planning reports and appropriate recommendations.
• To provide guidance and information to County staff, Council, developers and citizens regarding Norfolk County’s planning process, Official Plan policies, Zoning By-law and relevant provincial policy and regulations.
• To oversee the day to day management/supervision of major planning development projects, reports and studies as assigned by the General Manager, Development or the Director, Planning Services
• Responsible for the processing and consolidation of recommendations related to planning applications including official plan amendments, rezoning applications, site plans, committee of adjustment, subdivisions/condominium and land division
• To provide analysis and recommendations on planning applications including official plan and zoning by-law amendments, subdivision, condominium, site plan and Committee of Adjustment applications.
• To attend Council and other meetings, as required, to represent the Planning Department on planning interests of Norfolk County
• To coordinate and/or participate in County/Divisional initiatives including the periodic review and update of the County’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law(s).
• To attend Committee of Adjustment meetings in rotation with other Senior Planners.
• To develop site plans under Section 41 of the Planning Act
• To maintain and foster corporate goals by ensuring public access to and participation in the planning process.
• To prepare Official Plan Amendments and land use by-laws such as zoning, holding, interim control, part lot control, temporary use and site plan for consideration and approval by the County and subsequent approval by the Ministry of Affairs, if required.
• To prepare and administer site plan agreements and other such agreements as deemed necessary for related development applications, in accordance with Norfolk County process and standards.
• To undertake special projects and other duties as assigned.
• Coordinate public meetings pertaining to planning matters
• Present studies, policies and applications at Public Meetings, Public Information Sessions, and Committee meetings
• To respond to the media on planning matters subject to County media Relations Policy CRS-33.
• To act as a Departmental representative / Liaison on Committees as needed.
• Mentor, coach and provide leadership to planners, planning students and department co-op students.
• Working after hours for Public Meetings, Council Meetings, Committee Meetings, and other Public Open houses on a project by project basis and when deemed necessary to meet deadlines and deal with crises.

Requirements

Knowledge and Experience:

• Minimum 4 year Honours post-secondary degree in Land Use Planning or related field; Graduate level Master’s Degree in Planning is preferred but not required
• Plus over three up to and including four years’ experience in land use planning
• Membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners in good standing and a Registered Professional Planner
• GIS experience and quantitative skills/statistical analysis is an asset
• Preference will be given to applicants with experience in rural land use planning
• Experience testifying before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (formerly Ontario Municipal Board) is an asset
• Knowledge or expertise in areas such as heritage planning, transportation planning, environmental planning, or brownfield planning, would be considered an asset

Skills and Abilities:

• Solid understan

Job Rewards and Benefits