Senior Planner, Policy (1 Year Contract)
Temporary Full Time
Requisition ID: 4227
Salary Range: $87,029 to $116,765 Annually

The City of Markham is proud to be recognized for the 5^th consecutive year as one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes and Statista Inc. In 2025, the City of Markham is ranked 2nd among municipalities in Canada and 12th overall for Government Services. The recipient of multiple environmental awards, we are recognized for our innovative sustainability and urban planning initiatives as well as our fiscal accountability. More than 366,000 residents call Markham home and benefit from our rich heritage, culturally diverse environment, vibrant local economy and focus on quality of life.  

Are you looking for a rewarding and transformative policy planning role where you will be engaged in leading complex projects including secondary plans? Applications are now being accepted for the Senior Planner, Policy position in the Planning and Urban Design department. To apply for this position, please submit your cover letter and resume online at www.markham.ca/careers by April 9, 2025.

Please note the salary range is based on 2023 rates.

Join us and make a lasting difference!

JOB SUMMARY

In this role, you will provide professional planning advice on land use policy matters and project manage complex inter-disciplinary land use planning studies. The Senior Planner, Policy reports to the Manager of Policy in the Planning and Urban Design department.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead complex policy planning projects in a multi-disciplinary context, including policy review and development related to growth management, employment, housing, community design, transportation, infrastructure, finance, sustainable development, and phasing of growth
• Lead the delivery of land use and secondary plan studies
• Support the City’s Official Plan Review Program
• Identify, develop, and negotiate land use concepts/approaches with internal and external clients
• Coordinate the activities of external consultant teams, including but not limited to the hiring of consultants, developing and issuing Request for Proposals, pre-qualifications, participation in the evaluation/selection process, and contract award including overseeing budgets and invoicing
• Clearly and effectively communicate ideas, concepts and proposals in writing and verbally before Council, Committees, and in public meetings
• Represent the department on internal and external committees including at tribunals
• Facilitate and undertakes public consultation and community outreach
• Provide guidance and advice to junior staff, as required
• Other duties as assigned

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve.  Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process. 

Please respect our scent free area by not wearing scented products when visiting the office.

REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Must have a Degree in Planning, or related discipline, combined with minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in planning policy and research projects, a Master’s degree is preferred
• Proven proficiency in policy planning, particularly crafting official plan policy, secondary plans, and growth management
• Membership in the Ontario Professional Planners Institute is preferred
• Must have access to personal vehicle for business purposes
• Must be able to attend site meetings at various locations throughout Markham and York Region during and after regular business hours
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Working knowledge of AMANDA Development Applications Tracking Software an asset
• Superior analytical and written and oral communications skills
• Superior report writing, presentation and public speaking skills
• Experience at the Ontario Land Tribunal an asset.
• Well-developed team leadership and negotiation skills
• Superior project management skills, including the ability to set priorities, solve problems, and meet deadlines under pressure
• Excellent customer service skills

Core Behaviours

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behaviour and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self- management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.