Planner I (Rezoning Centre)

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose and Function
This professional planner position is responsible for reviewing rezoning applications and for advising on and preparing policy, zoning and guidelines. This position may support a team in Rezoning that is involved in a major review of the City’s development approvals process as part of the City’s commitment to providing excellent service and regulatory innovation. The work is complex professional city planning in the investigation and development of solutions regarding planning matters. The position may also work as part of other planning projects or areas within Planning, Urban Design and Sustainability as required.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides a range of professional services and technical support as part of a planning team focused on rezoning.
• Supports and coordinates the work of an interdepartmental team.
• Responds to public enquiries regarding rezoning potential, and reviews, evaluates and processes rezoning applications from enquiry through to enactment.
• Identifies opportunities to improve, simplify and consolidate review processes, and support the work, implementation and change management to give effect to those opportunities.
• Undertakes research, analysis, and synthesizes input from internal and external review groups and the public.
• Prepares complex reports for Council and drafts proposed amendments to policies and regulations.
• Presents complex material and information to staff, the public, and City Council.
• Manages various public engagement and consultation processes, including designing, attending, and facilitating community events, forums, workshops, and meetings (including evenings and weekends).
• Establishes collaborative working relationships with community organizations, businesses, residents, property owners, developers, and other stakeholders.
• Researches and identifies opportunities to improve, simplify, and consolidate processes.
• Provides advice to internal and external parties on policy and in relation to enquiries and applications.
• Writes reports, facilitates meetings, and develops presentations for staff, management, City Council, community members, and external stakeholders.
• Liaises with other City Departments, including Engineering, Arts, Culture and Community Services, Parks, and Real Estate and Facilities Management.
• Leads and coordinates discrete work involving an interdepartmental team.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:

• A post-secondary degree in planning, recognized by the Canadian Institute of Planners, or a related field.
• Minimum of one year of professional experience related to the duties and responsibilities of the position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A Master’s degree or equivalent in planning or a related discipline is desirable.
• Membership or eligibility for membership in the Planning Institute of British Columbia is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of urban planning, architecture, and related fields, with expertise in land use, urban design, policy issues, and planning processes.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, officials, stakeholders, and the public.
• Strong analytical, organizational, verbal, and written communication skills, including public speaking and the preparation of accessible materials, reports, and presentations.
• Demonstrated expertise in rezoning, urban design, community planning, and policy development, with the ability to produce and communicate using visual materials.
• Proficiency in software such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and ArcGIS, with knowledge of design software considered an asset.
• Sound knowledge of research methodologies and experience delivering creative engagement processes, particularly for equity-seeking communities.
• Ability to manage projects, exercise initiative, and meet tight deadlines, demonstrating professionalism, diplomacy, tact, and empathy.
• Knowledge of municipal planning, land development, community development, social and affordable housing policies, and housing agreements.
• Awareness of Indigenous and culturally diverse communities, with strong cultural sensitivity and awareness.
• Ability to supervise staff, lead participatory public consultation processes, and negotiate among various stakeholders.

Business Unit/Department: Planning, Urban Design & Sustainability (1275)

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non Pks

Employment Type: Regular Full Time

Position Start Date: May, 2025

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-029: $51.70 to $61.13 per hour

Application Close: April 27, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process.