Planner (Duncan)

About McElhanney

Based in Western Canada for over 110 years, McElhanney offers innovative and practical engineering, surveying, mapping, planning, landscape architecture, and environmental services. As a 100% employee‑owned and operated firm, with over 1,400 staff members in 31 locations, we are proud to offer qualified staff with shareholding options in our company. At McElhanney, we work in teams to build strong connections with our staff, clients, and local communities. Our employees enjoy working here because of our varied projects, high levels of autonomy, opportunities for career development, excellent total compensation and benefits package, and collaborating with a team of great professionals.

The Opportunity

McElhanney has an exciting opportunity for a Planning Professional to join our dynamic Planning team on Vancouver Island, BC. Supporting vibrant, livable communities is a key focus at McElhanney, and our Planning teams are at the forefront of shaping the future across Western Canada. In this role, you will contribute to a diverse range of public sector policy initiatives and private sector development projects, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to deliver creative, community‑focused solutions. While the position is based in Campbell River, we are seeking candidates who are currently located on Vancouver Island or are willing to relocate there.

What You’ll Do

• Supporting McElhanney’s planning practice in Victoria or Campbell River and coordinating with McElhanney planning teams in other branches to ensure great project delivery to amaze our clients.
• Working with local governments on public sector projects that could include Official Community Plan and zoning bylaw updates or amendments, housing studies, land use studies, and parks and trails projects.
• Designing and delivery of public engagement campaigns including directly interacting with members of the public and key interest holders.
• Working with First Nations on land use plans, housing projects, and policy updates.
• Working with developers and property owners to obtain approvals for development projects.
• Business development with new, existing, and key clients.
• Liaising and developing strategic partnerships with clients, project stakeholders, various levels of government and sub‑consultants.
• Professional project management and execution of planning projects.

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years of community planning experience, preferably with a background in consulting, report writing, and making Council presentations.
• 2+ years of experience in a supervisory responsibility.
• Master’s degree in urban planning, urban design, or related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in land development approvals and municipal development processes.
• Experience with local government land use regulatory and procedural policy and bylaw development and drafting.
• Proven excellence in creative problem solving and solution implementation.
• An understanding of provincial planning legislation, and a willingness to learn surrounding local government policies and bylaw requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Technical and policy writing expertise.
• Ability to prepare information and host Public Engagement opportunities.
• Effective time management skills with the ability to function in a high volume, challenging environment.
• CAD and Adobe InDesign experience or ability to use other design software would be an asset.
• Registered Professional Planner with Planning Institute and Membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners.
• Valid (or in progress) Class 5 driver’s license.

What Can We Offer You?

The salary range for this position is $105,000 - $130,000 per annum. McElhanney offers fair compensation that is commensurate with the individual’s education, experience, skills, and professional qualifications. The posted base salary/wage range is representative of the required level of qualifications and experience for the position as noted in the job posting. The salary offered will be based on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

• Work‑Life Harmony: Balance your personal and professional commitments. Flexible hours to fit your lifestyle.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Maternity and parental leave top up program, health and dental coverage, RRSP matching, and Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Safe & Inclusive Workplace: A culture of respect and inclusion for all.
• Compensation: Attractive total compensation package including a generous bonus plan.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for dues, educational assistance, mentorship program, workshops, and committee involvement.
• Career Progression: Support and mentorship to shape a career path that fits your goals.
• Relocation Support: Financial assistance if applicable.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At McElhanney, our unwavering commitment lies in cultivating a culture that aligns with our core values and fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion. We celebrate the collective achievements of a team rich in expertise, experiences, and perspectives, and welcome applications from individuals of diverse ethnicities, religions, backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, gender identities, aboriginal statuses, various age groups, and those with disabilities. Requests for accommodations can be made at any stage of the selection process.