The City is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace which is representative of the community we serve. We welcome those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism and reconciliation. Applications are encouraged from members of groups that are historically disadvantaged and underrepresented. Accommodations are available during the hiring process, upon request.
As a Senior Planner, you will lead the Development Applications Review Team (DART) through planning reviews and provide professional planning services to all interested parties. You will conduct research, technical analysis and review planning policies and technical reports to make sound recommendations on planning applications to the Calgary Planning Commission and Council. You bring extensive experience across the planning continuum and will aid in decision-making, problem-solving, and strategy development across the business unit and department. Primary duties include:
- Lead and coordinate amongst DART teams, identify and set priorities, provide progress updates, and make recommendations to senior leadership, the Calgary Planning Commission, and City Council. Lead an interdisciplinary team in the review of complex development permit, land use amendment, policy amendment and outline plan applications.
- Collaborate with external parties, including applicants and broader industry representatives, different levels of government, and other relevant parties to resolve process and planning issues.
- Issue approvals and refusals for developments.
- Conduct analysis and interpretation of planning regulations and policy documents, outline plans, policy amendment and development permit applications.
- Review land use designations for development compliance, formulate recommendations, prepare technical reports, and present to appropriate decision-making body within required timelines.
- Apply planning policies, identify any amendments, and work with colleagues to prepare detailed amendments.
- Communicate planning policies and decisions to applicants, internal partners, and members of the public. Provide professional planning advice and gain support from external and internal affected parties and political leaders.
- Develop, prepare, present and defend planning recommendations and decisions publicly at the Subdivision Development and Appeal Board (SDAB), Calgary Planning Commission (CPC) and Council Public Hearings.
- Lead discussions with communities, special interest groups, the development industry, and political partners. Lead and facilitate issue identification and resolution processes. Participate in public engagement sessions.
- Provide strategic direction and coordination for multidisciplinary teams, guiding technical experts towards aligned, timely and high-quality planning decisions on complex applications.
- Provide coaching, mentoring and development of new City building professionals, planners, and coordinators on planning processes; foster collaboration, build technical capacity, and ensure consistency in planning decisions.
- A degree in Planning or a related field that is recognized by the Alberta Professional Planners Institute (APPI) or another provincial or territorial institute or association representing the Planning profession in Canada.
- At least 6 years of progressively more responsible and varied experience in the planning profession, including experience working in an urban environment, delivering solutions and recommendations in complex planning and development initiatives, and providing advice and counsel to senior leadership teams.
- Eligibility for membership in the Alberta Professional Planners Institute is required.
- A Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation or working towards a RPP designation is preferred.
- A master's degree is considered an asset.
- An expert level and knowledge of development and land use applications is considered an asset.
- Experience leading complex projects that require a high level of expertise and strategic thinking.
- Ability to communicate to a wide range of audiences, such as City Council, committees, citizens and city building partners.
- The successful applicant will have a proven ability to make difficult decisions in a political and fast-paced environment on politically sensitive topics requiring diplomacy and sensitivity.
Workstyle
- This position may be eligible to work from home for at least part of the time as one of several flexible work options available to City employees. These arrangements depend on the operational requirements of the role, employee suitability, and are subject to change based on operational needs and corporate direction.
Compensation: Pay Grade 15 $56.13 - $75.09 per hour
