Urban Design Planner

Summary:

To champion and implement the City’s urban design program. To provide professional advice and expertise in urban design issues to Planning Staff, other departments, members of the public and applicants.

Duties and Responsibilities:

(These set out the principal functions of the position and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements).

• Prepare and update the City’s urban design policies and procedures, standards and guideline documents.
• Review and comment on all planning development and grant applications through the review of plans, drawings, reports, cost estimates and agreements, including attendance at presubmission consultation meetings.
• Provide professional advice in the preparation of the official plan, secondary plans, master plans and other land-use studies as they relate to urban design.
• Research assigned special projects and prepare plans, policy proposals and recommendations on assigned projects and development applications based on the application of standard planning criteria.
• Provide input on municipal projects for public realm improvements, active transportation improvements, and City facilities (e.g., public roads, rights-of-way, parkettes, etc.).
• Prepare requests for proposals, requests for quotations and tenders, and manage projects.
• Give expert evidence on planning and urban design matters before inquiries and the Ontario Land Tribunal.
• Prepare and/or contribute to the preparation of studies, reports, policies and by-laws.
• Liaise with the community and Council, attend public meetings, and make presentations as required.
• Perform other similar and related duties, as required.

Position Requirements:

• A Degree from a recognized University in Urban Design, Architecture, or Planning with an Urban Design specialization.
• Minimum of four (4) years experience in Urban Design.
• Membership in OPPI and CIP or Professional Architectural Association preferred.
• Superior communication skills, including verbal, written, and presentation skills are essential.
• Demonstrated skills in effectively chairing a meeting (meetings with staff, agencies, open houses etc.).
• Current knowledge of the Planning Act, Provincial Land Use policy and other related legislation.
• Current knowledge of best practices and strategies for the design of the built environment.
• The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Working knowledge of the property data management system, AMANDA, or similar system, and Microsoft Office.
• Demonstration of superior customer service skills.
• Computer and manual design skills with a knowledge of AutoCAD, 3D Modelling, Sketchup and Adobe Suite is an asset.
• Proven completion of Ministry of Labour Worker Health and Safety Awareness training.
• A demonstrated commitment to enhancing a safety culture.

CUPE Pay Group 10 – Minimum $80,147 annually; Maximum $90,053 annually

Expected Work Location: City Hall (eligible for part-time remote work)

Hours of Work: Currently Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

The City of St. Catharines is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. We will accommodate the needs of applicants under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. Please advise the Human Resources Division to ensure your accessibility needs are accommodated throughout this process.