Planning Technician

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Planning Technician
Bargaining Unit: CUPE 3251
Language Requirement: English Essential
Vacancy Status: Temporary vacancy – fixed term

Cornwall is a beautiful community with a population of 47,000 situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Eastern Ontario. The city offers a wide array of urban amenities, making it an excellent place for a career and raising a family. With a growing economy, expanding population and fantastic quality of life, there has never been a better time to start the next phase of your career with the City of Cornwall! Cornwall is a diverse and progressive community where residents and partners feel safe, welcomed, and enjoy a high quality of life supported by access to financially responsible and sustainable municipal services and infrastructure.

The Planning Technician provides technical support to the Planning and Development team by assisting in the review of development applications, maintaining planning records, and preparing maps and reports. This role supports municipal planning initiatives by ensuring accuracy in data collection, document preparation, and compliance with municipal regulations. This position also acts as the Secretary Treasurer – Committee of Adjustment and is therefore responsible for overseeing the Committee of Adjustment as required under the Planning Act.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and process minor development applications, ensuring compliance with municipal policies and regulations.
• Perform all statutory duties as Secretary Treasurer- Committee of Adjustment for the administration of the Committee of Adjustment process and function including but not limited to: preparing agendas, administering meetings, circulating applications, coordinating comments, collecting and assembling information for appeals and hearings, processing decisions, and serving as the primary contact with the public for the submission and administrative procedures related to the Committee of Adjustment.
• Prepare maps, diagrams, and visual materials using GIS and other planning software to support land-use planning and decision-making.
• Assist in maintaining and updating planning documents, zoning by-laws, and official plans.
• Conduct research and compile data related to land use, zoning, and development trends.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding zoning, planning processes, and development applications, and escalate, as appropriate.
• Support senior planning staff in preparing reports, recommendations, and presentations for committees and council.
• Conduct site visits to gather data and verify information related to development applications.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to planning projects and applications.
• Assist in the coordination of public consultations and community engagement activities.
• Provide administrative and technical support for planning initiatives, including special projects and policy development.

Leadership of Others

• N/A

Position Requirements

Education & Certifications:

• Diploma in Urban Planning, Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in municipal planning, GIS, or a related field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD, and other planning-related software.
• Research Skills: Ability to analyze and compile planning data to support decision-making.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing reports and responding to public inquiries.
• Organization: Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines.
• Attention to Detail: Strong accuracy in reviewing documents, maps, and technical materials.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues and propose solutions within planning processes.
• Collaboration: Ability to collaborate effectively with planning staff, consultants, and members of the public.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based role with occasional site visits and attendance at public meetings.
• Standard business hours, Monday to Friday, with occasional flexibility required for public consultations or special projects.
• Cognitive demands include preparing notices, agendas, and technical documents while ensuring compliance with legislation and conveying information to a wide audience, addressing concerns, and maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor in potentially contentious situations.
• Physical demands include extended periods of sitting and looking at a computer screen.

If selected for this role, you will need to provide:

• Successful reference check (two work-related references, with a minimum of one being a direct supervisor)
• Proof of certifications
• Satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check

Additional Information:
The Corporation of The City of Cornwall strives to promote and demonstrate the values of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We are committed to reflecting the diversity of the community we serve and encourage qualified candidates of all backgrounds and abilities to apply. Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process as required. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted. Information collected will be handled in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

The City of Cornwall is an equal-opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. At the City, we respect, encourage and celebrate our diversity. The City of Cornwall is committed to providing accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Please save a copy of this posting for your records. Please ensure that your application clearly demonstrates how you meet each of the required qualifications. Please note, selection for further consideration will be based on the information you provide in your application. Interviews may be conducted virtually through Microsoft Teams or in-person.

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BENEFITS

Mobile phone and plan EPP discount

Municipal Employees Activity Committee

Employee Assistance Program

OMERS Pension Plan

Free parking

Municipal Employees Activity Committee

OMERS Pension Plan

Free parking