Join Our Growing Team and Build a New Planning Legacy!
Central Elgin is experiencing exciting growth and is committed to creating vibrant, sustainable communities. To support this vision, we are establishing a brand-new planning position and are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Planner to be a key part of this transformative initiative. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of planning in our municipality and contribute to building a department from the ground up.
About Central Elgin:
Nestled in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, Central Elgin offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban accessibility. Our community is growing, and we are dedicated to responsible development that enhances the quality of life for our residents. Join us and be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.
The Opportunity:
As a Senior Planner, you will play a pivotal role in establishing the planning and development department's foundation, driving strategic initiatives, and providing expert guidance on complex planning matters. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing policies that align with Central Elgin's vision for sustainable growth and community development.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Department Development & Leadership:
Contribute to the development of departmental policies, procedures, and workflows, establishing a strong and efficient planning framework.
Participate in strategic planning initiatives, helping to define the department's vision and goals.
Identify and recommend innovative planning solutions to address Central Elgin's unique challenges and opportunities.
Expert Planning Advice & Development Management:
Provide expert planning advice to Council, Committees, and internal stakeholders.
Manage and process complex development applications, including official plan amendments, zoning by-law amendments, site plan approvals, and subdivisions.
Conduct thorough reviews of development proposals, ensuring compliance with the Ontario Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, and Central Elgin's by-laws.
Negotiate with developers, consultants, and other stakeholders to achieve positive planning outcomes.
Policy Development & Implementation:
Contribute to the development and implementation of municipal planning policies and by-laws.
Conduct research and analysis on emerging planning issues and best practices.
Prepare policy reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
Public Engagement & Consultation:
Organize and facilitate public meetings and consultations to gather community input on planning proposals and policies.
Respond to inquiries from the public, developers, and other stakeholders.
Prepare and present information to Council and Committees in a clear and concise manner.
Project Management & Collaboration:
Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budgets.
Coordinate with internal departments and external agencies to ensure project success.
Monitor project progress and provide regular updates to senior leadership.
Mentorship & Team Development:
Provide guidance to the Coordinator position and future planning staff.
Contribute to the development of a positive and collaborative team environment.
Compliance & Best Practices:
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the Ontario Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, and all other relevant legislation.
Ensure all planning projects adhere to current legislation and best practices.
Why Join Central Elgin?
Be part of building a new planning department and shaping the future of our community.
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Opportunities for professional development and growth.
A supportive and collaborative work environment.
The chance to live and work in a beautiful and growing community.
JOB SPECIFIATIONS
Location: 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada
Job Type Full-time
Rate of Pay: $42.76 - $50.91 (Band 10)
Hours of Work: The normal workweek consists of 35 hours; Monday to Friday. You may be required to work outside and beyond the normal hours of work.
Applications must be received no later than Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
The successful candidate will be required to complete a Criminal Record Check as a condition of employment and prior to commencing employment.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The Municipality of Central Elgin is an equal opportunity employer. The Municipality of Central Elgin will attempt to provide reasonable accommodation for known disability for an applicant or employee if requested.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Personal information is collected pursuant to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used only to evaluate the suitability of applicants for employment. Questions respecting the collection of information should be directed to the CAO/Clerk of The Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin.
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Urban Planning or a related field.
Membership in the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) and Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation is required.
5-7 years of progressive experience in municipal planning in Ontario.
Strong understanding of the Ontario Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, and relevant municipal by-laws.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in GIS and other planning software.
Valid Ontario drivers licence and access to a vehicle.
The Municipality of Central Elgin is a progressive, growing urban and rural municipality located on the north shore of Lake Erie in the heart of southwestern Ontario adjacent to London and St.Thomas. The Municipality is home to nearly 15,000 people. A prosperous municipality that blends the diversity of a rural agricultural community with an extensive urban environment that is rich in history and tourism, the Municipality of Central Elgin prides itself on being progressive in the way everyday business is carried out.
