The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.
Who you are
You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.
Why work for us
At the GRCA, we don’t just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours, one day a week working from home, and wellness initiatives like onsite yoga and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you’re “at the office”, you won’t feel like you’re “at the office.” Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade’s Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.
We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.
Overview of the opportunity
The Resource Planner is responsible to communicate Provincial and Conservation Authority policies and to coordinate responses, stating the Authority's position focusing on natural hazards, on municipal planning matters including applications under the Planning Act; applications under the Conservation Authorities Act through Ontario Regulation 41/24 (Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits Regulation); projects under the Environmental Assessment Act and applications under other legislation. This position reports to the Supervisor of Resource Planning.
What you’ll do:
Review and provide a statement of the Authority's position and policies on all Planning Applications (Official Plans, Zoning By-laws, Subdivision and Condominium applications Official Plan Amendments, Zoning By-Law Amendments, consents, minor variances, site plans), Solicitor's Enquiries, Licence for Gravel Pits, Environmental Assessments, Municipal Drains and other development proposals. Conduct meetings within and outside of the Authority and perform field inspections related to these applications and inquiries.
Review and provide a statement of the Authority's position and policies on applications pursuant to Ontario Regulation 41/24 (Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits Regulation) and the enforcement of this regulation.
Meet municipal deadlines regarding Planning Act Applications, legislative timelines for permit applications and internal service delivery standards for title clearances, general requests, etc.
Attend as the Authority representative multi-disciplinary and/or multi-agency steering committees as well as attendance at Council Meetings and Open Houses.
Review, prepare or present policy documents, position statements or reports relative to the functions mentioned above.
Encourage communication and outreach activities that generate support within the local communities for the health and enhancement of our watershed's natural resources.
Attend as the representative of the Authority appeals before the Ontario Land Tribunal or cases before the Provincial Courts.
Conduct investigations, inspections, negotiations and enforcement of Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act.
Education
Degree in Planning, Geography, Environmental Science or a related discipline. An Environmental degree with some planning coursework/experience is preferred
Experience
Minimum three years related work experience.
Ability to interpret earth processes, natural features and land uses from an extensive variety of maps and plans, use of air photos and interpretation in the field. Must be able to read and comprehend technical reports such as Environmental Impact Statements, Stormwater Management Reports, Subwatershed Plans, Geotechnical and Hydrogeological studies, and relate them to current Policies and objectives.
A working knowledge of environmental legislation, planning statements and natural hazard technical guidelines, e.g. storm water management guidelines.
Current member of Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) or Registered Professional Planner designation or eligibility for this membership or designation is considered an asset.
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
Applicants must have a strong background and related job experience with the Microsoft Office software suite, and use of digital mapping software.
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) manages water and other natural resources on behalf of 39 municipalities and close to one million residents of the Grand River watershed.
The GRCA is a partnership of watershed municipalities, and provides an avenue to work together, addressing environmental issues and opportunities that serve to benefit the entire Grand River watershed.
Headquartered in Cambridge, Ontario the GRCA is the oldest water management agency in Canada and one of the oldest in the world.
Incorporated under the Conservation Authorities Act, the GRCA is one of 36 conservation authorities in the province, the GRCA is a member of Conservation Ontario.
