Job Description

Reporting to the Program Manager \xe2\x80\x93 Housing, the Planner 3 position is senior planning position that is primarily responsible for processing a variety of high-density residential development applications including complex rezoning, Official Community Plan (OCP) amendments, and development permit applications. The role will also incorporate other planning initiatives including preparing land use policies, zoning bylaws and development permit guidelines. The Planner 3 provides high quality information and recommendations; completes assignments in a timely manner using sound professional techniques, legislative knowledge and judgment; possesses effective verbal and written communication skills, organization skills and workload management; and is dedicated to customer service standards.Key responsibilities:

• Project management for a high volume of complex housing development applications (e.g., OCP amendments, Rezonings, Development Permits).
• Ability to process complex high-density development applications (e.g. high-rise mixed-use rezonings and Development Permits) including reconciling competing objectives and providing urban design advice to ensure projects respond to City guidelines and public realm objectives.
• Preparing community planning policies, bylaws, design guidelines and staff reports to City Council. This could also entail leading planning initiatives including the review and update of OCP policies related to rental housing.
• Supporting and attending City advisory committees, as required.
• Coordinating input from various stakeholders including City departments, community groups, area residents, developers and external agencies (e.g., federal, provincial, regional) on various planning initiatives and development applications. This may include representing the department or leading various cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with other City departments and stakeholders to advance housing developments on City lands.
• Providing innovative and balanced solutions based on sound land use planning principles, urban design objectives and a clear understanding of the applicable legislative framework.
• Prepare and administer consultant work programs.

• In-depth knowledge of the planning principles and practices, including a strong understanding of the legislative framework for land use planning in British Columbia.
• Effective organization and time management skills and ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills including ability to represent the City in public consultation meetings.
• Experience in a municipal setting is preferred.
• Knowledge of preparing and implementing complex community planning work programs, studies and policies.
• Skill and ability to manage internal and external contacts with courtesy, tact and discretion in providing planning advice.
• Ability to manage situations that may be emotionally charged.
• Ability to research, analyze and communicate specialized and technical planning information to a variety of internal and external customers.
• Skill in coordinating cross-disciplinary teams with diverse interests.
• Ability to ensure high quality written work, for self and others.
• Sound knowledge of Windows-based computer applications such as MS Word, Outlook, Excel, electronic document management systems (REDMS), application tracking software (AMANDA) and GIS.

• A Master\'s Degree in Community Planning or related field (e.g., Architecture, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture), supplemented by a minimum of 5 years of professional planning experience.
• Experience in sustainability, environmental management and urban land economics is considered an asset.
• Eligible for membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP), Planning Institute of BC or the Architectural Institute of BC.
• A valid Class 5 Driver\xe2\x80\x99s Licence for the Province of British Columbia.

City of Richmond