Senior Planner

at  Ministry of Natural Resources

If you are an experienced Planner looking to take the next step in your career, consider taking on this new challenge as a Senior Planner with the Niagara Escarpment Commission, where you will lead and implement planning within one of the highest growth areas and complex landscapes in Ontario.
The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

We offer:

• a defined benefit pension plan
• comprehensive health plan
• life and disability insurance
• flexible work arrangements
• collegial and professional work culture
• career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas
• on-the-job training to support your success in the role

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE:

You have:

• experience in land use and environmental planning and management, with demonstrated ability to interpret and apply knowledge of related policies, principles, processes, practices, standards and guidelines to analyze and evaluate land use and development proposals for conformity with requirements
• knowledge of legislation and planning relevant to the Niagara Escarpment, as well as other applicable provincial policies and legislation
• demonstrated knowledge of the Ontario planning system, related legislation, policies
• proven ability to apply knowledge of the impacts of environmental change, human stress and development on the environment in order to evaluate development applications, recommend approaches to mitigate impact and site remediation/restoration approaches

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS:

You have:

• demonstrated ability to proactively nurture positive relationships/partnerships and lead consultations with a variety of contacts, such as: applicants, clients, stakeholders, municipalities and agencies, as well as Indigenous communities and organizations
• successful track record of reaching consensus among differing viewpoints and facilitating resolution of issues

ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS:

You can:

• coordinate implementation of a program as well as internal involvement in land use planning initiatives, in a manner that effectively manages deadlines, a high volume of workload, stakeholder expectations and client business needs
• work under pressure and respond to unexpected changes or modifications to priorities and deadlines on short notice
• motivate other team members to achieve objectives within timelines

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:

You can:

• prepare reports and planning documents, draft briefing notes and correspondence
• clearly and articulately convey technical information, provide subject matter expertise and guidance
• tactfully discuss issues with other ministries, other levels of government, stakeholders and landowners
• deliver compelling presentations and provide expert evidence before hearings and tribunals

ANALYTICAL SKILLS:

You have:

• demonstrated ability to actively engage in issues management and high priority, high profile complex initiatives, including developing strategic approaches to addressing situations, resource implications, processes and associated issues
• demonstrated ability to make meaningful contributions in the development of strategic directions and effective delivery of programs

COMPUTER SKILLS:

• You are proficient with computer software, including word processing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spreadsheets and databases, in order to access information, conduct analysis of data, and prepare reports and presentations.

In this role, you will:

• provide strategic support, technical and planning expertise, guidance and advice to program development and delivery related to the Niagara Escarpment Commission’s mandate
• provide team leadership and coordination to an integrated team of technical and professional staff
• develop and maintain positive relationships with a wide range of organizations, other levels of government, Indigenous communities and organizations, landowners and stakeholders
• lead and represent the Niagara Escarpment Commission’s interests through various meetings on planning matters, as well as through hearing tribunals and representation on committees