Planner I, Urban Design

The City of Markham is proud to be recognized for the 4^th consecutive year as one of Canada's Best Employers by Forbes and Statista Inc. In 2024, the City of Markham is ranked the top city in Ontario and in the top 10 for Government Services. The recipient of multiple environmental awards, we are recognized for our innovative sustainability and urban planning initiatives as well as our fiscal accountability. More than 357,000 residents call Markham home and benefit from our rich heritage, culturally diverse environment, vibrant local economy and focus on quality of life.

Applications are now being accepted for the above position in the Planning and Urban Design Department, Development Services Commission. While all applications will be received, current members of CUPE 905 (Inside Workers) will be given first consideration. To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume on-line by November 10, 2024.

Join us and make a lasting difference!

JOB SUMMARY

The Planner I, Urban Design will be responsible for providing urban design advice during the review and evaluation of development applications and proposals, including official plan amendment, re-zoning, plan of subdivision / condominium, minor variance, severance and site plans within a geographic area of the City. You will also review Tree Assessment and Preservation Plans on a variety of applications, conduct site visits and inspections, and prepare Letter of Credit releases.

This position will also support coordination of the Markham Design Review Panel sessions and support the Planning and Urban Design Department by undertaking background research, data management, special studies, and other initiatives.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work as part of a team and promote good urban design principles, practices and guidelines;
• Assist with the coordination of the Markham Design Review Panel including the review of applications and presentations to the Panel, and prepare summary notes on Panel recommendations;
• Evaluate development applications for minor variances and severances, Zoning By-law amendments, site plans, draft plans of subdivisions and condominiums and provide written or diagrammatic urban design, built form and landscape comments;
• Review Tree Assessment and Preservation Plans and conduct site/landscape inspections, independently or as part of a group;
• Prepare urban design comments for draft reports going to Committee / Council;
• Assist the Sr. Manager of Urban Design, Supervisors or Senior Planners with urban design studies and research;
• Respond to inquiries on a daily basis from internal and external customers, via email, telephone or at the front counter;
• Work with the latest technologies including AMANDA and E-Plan to maintain all development applications and project work, and work with the team to develop, improve, and implement internal processes and procedures;
• Promote the conservation and preservation of trees through applicable policies and regulations.
• All other duties as assigned

REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Degree in Landscape Architecture, Planning, Architecture and/or Urban Design, or equivalent qualification, combined with one to three years of related experience in these fields.
• Membership or eligibility for membership to the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects, Canadian Institute of Planners or Ontario Association of Architects.
• Knowledge of the Ontario Planning Act, regulations and procedures, and urban and regional planning principles.

• Able to read and understand Landscape and Engineering drawings such as Site Plans, Draft Plans of Subdivision, Elevations, Underground Parking Plans, Streetscape, Planting Plans, Details, Grading, Servicing, Composite Utility Plans, and Strata Plans
• Understanding of design and construction details and specifications, particularly related to landscape and the public realm
• Understanding of municipal approval processes, such as the Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, Site Plan Control etc., and associated urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, built form, materials, construction, and planning requirements as applicable
• Familiar with policy and standards relating to the preservation and stewardship of the natural environment and sustainability in both the natural and built environment
• Good design, graphics and computer skills (knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe CS and AutoCAD; SketchUp, Project Dox and AMANDA would be an asset)
• Ability to provide analytical review and presents adequate report writing, presentation and public speaking skills
• Able to successfully negotiate and liaise, using communication, interpersonal, customer service and leadership skills, with internal and external stakeholders
• Able to meet deadlines under pressure using strong organizational, time management and problem solving skills
• Creative and goal-oriented with the ability to add value to projects and design solutions
  

CORE BEHAVIOURS

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behavior and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.