Closing Date (closes at 11:59 pm July 3, 2026)

Department: Policy Planning

Hours per week:  35

The following description reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the principle functions of the position identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in such classification.

Position Summary:

Responsible for project management and leadership on a wide range of long-range and strategic planning and policy matters, typically of a complex and politically sensitive nature, in order to implement Council’s strategic priorities.  Provides independent expert professional planning opinion, evidence and testimony at the Local Planning Appeals Tribunal.

Responsible To:  Senior Manager of Long-Range Policy Initiatives

Supervises:  Planning Intern

Responsible For:

• Leads, manages and implements the development of complex, strategic and politically sensitive land use, long-range planning and development planning projects, relative to the implementation of Provincial, Regional and City policies, plans and guidelines.
• Initiates and undertakes specialized planning studies and research projects relative to complex planning issues from problem identification through implementation, using best practices in planning and project management.
• Undertakes land use studies and masterplans as necessary to support the needs of the City, demonstrating skills relative to project management and public consultation. Prepares request for proposals (RFPs), terms of reference and scoping documents for planning studies and projects, outlining the expected project scope, goals and objectives, schedule, budget and deliverables.
• Manages consultants/consulting teams retained by the City to complete specific planning studies. Monitors project schedules and budgets/project finances, and reports to the Senior Manager accordingly.
• Leads, manages and administers the City’s Community Improvement Plan Programs, including the creation of new Community Improvement Plans, processing applications to existing plans, and applicable reporting.
• Writes and presents reports to Council and Committee and helps to provide written formal municipal input to the Niagara Region and Province on various policy matters.
• Prepares and provides expert planning opinion at tribunals including the Local Planning Appeals Tribunal and courts.  Responsibilities also include attending review meetings with legal counsel to provide background information on litigations, attend pre-hearings and settlement discussions and providing advice to legal counsel during hearing.
• Exercises professional planning judgement and skills in the undertaking of planning programmes, policy recommendations and the processing of development applications.
• Confers/liaises with municipal, provincial, and federal authorities, civic leaders, lawyers, land developers, the public and special interest groups to formulate and develop land use policies and long-range planning initiatives.
• Interprets municipal and provincial planning documents and procedures for staff, agencies, developers and public.
• Participates in internal and external teams with respect to long range and strategic planning studies and projects, (new legislation, policy, community improvement plans, housing and affordable housing, etc).
• Presents studies, policies and applications at public meetings and coordinates, chairs and makes presentations at public information sessions.
• Serves as support and backup to the Current Development division, relative to the review and processing of all types of planning and development applications under the Planning Act including the formulation of policies, by-laws and agreements, as required.
• Coordinates and participates in the implementation of approved work programs.  Provides work direction and instruction to students and assistants.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• Minimum four (4) year degree in Planning; a Master’s degree in Planning is an asset.
• Full member in good standing with the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) and the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP). Provisional members may be considered depending on status of application, however future Full Membership will be a requirement of an employment contract.
• A minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible, relevant municipal planning experience.
• Sound knowledge of provincial planning legislation, official plans, zoning, and by-laws is essential.
• Project management training and experience is an asset.
• Class “G” driver’s licence required.

Competencies:

• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
• Ability to lead the procurement of consultants, management of consultant’s work and staff, and financial accountability of project budget for consultant assignment.
• Attention to detail and pursues quality in the accomplishment of tasks.
• Client/customer focused, provides superior service to both internal and external customers.
• Works cooperatively and effectively in a team and with others to reach a common goal.
• Able to lead and work well with a wide range of individuals to provide support, coaching and direction.
• Ensures the highest standards of confidentiality and integrity at all times.
• Proven leadership in conflict resolution, problem solving, negotiations and facilitation direction.

About City of Niagara Falls

The City of Niagara Falls is a dynamic and internationally renowned city with a prosperous business community and economic foundation anchored by tourism, manufacturing, retail and knowledge-based sectors. Located at one of the natural wonders of the world and in the heart North America’s most affluent consumer markets, we are linked to the world by extensive road, rail, air, water and telecommunication networks. With over 14 million visitors a year and a growing resident population of over 95,000, we invite you to discover why Niagara Falls is a premier place to live, work, and play. Please visit our website for all current employment openings at the City of Niagara Falls.

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