Associate Development Specialist

Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.

WHAT WE OFFER

Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.

• Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
• Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
• Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.
• Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to a Manager, Development Review, is responsible for providing research, technical and information needs in support of planning delivery programs; preparing reports and letters on related matters; researching and undertaking data management activities; and preparing and analyzing mapping information.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Supports the Branch’s ongoing technical and information requirements by creating, managing and maintaining technical information/data and mapping.

• Creates, maintains and generates reports on planning and infrastructure related information within the development data base/tracking system.

• Reviews development submissions to ensure submission requirements met including accuracy, content and completeness and preliminary identification of Regional interests/issues

• Produces regular information reports on new development applications for distribution and coordination with Departments across Region and as required for forecasting

• Reviews and coordinates comments from Regional Departments/Branches on plans of subdivision and condominiums, variances and consents and forwards Regional responses and conditions to local municipalities.

• Assists development specialists, planners and senior planners with all development review and approvals and preparation of related legislated documentation.

• Performs other duties as assigned in accordance with Branch and Departmental objectives.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Successful completion of a University Degree in Urban Planning or a related discipline.

• Membership as a student in the Canadian Institute of Planners.

• Experience in the planning field demonstrating progressive responsibility, including hands-on experience in the creation, maintenance and management of information/data.

• Working knowledge of the planning approvals process, especially in subdivision and condominium applications.

• Familiarity with the Planning Act, other related legislation and policy and planning in a public sector environment.

• Knowledge and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including communication, innovation, teamwork and collaboration, and personal ownership.

• Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software applications.

• Ability to travel to off site locations in a timely and efficient manner, as required.

• Demonstrated ability to organize work, set priorities and meet deadlines.

• Ability to use and interpret map information, such as aerial photography.

• Ability to work outside normal business hours, as required.