City/Urban Planner I

Scout Talent; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal organization is looking for a full-time City/Urban Planner in Fort St John, British Columbia. Responsibilities include processing development applications and supporting policy projects. Candidates should have a degree in Planning, 2+ years of experience preferred, and strong knowledge of planning processes. The position offers competitive hourly compensation of $55.73, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Relocation assistance

Extended health and dental plan

Life insurance and AD&D insurance

16 vacation days, increasing to 21 days

Municipal pension plan

Employee and Family Assistance Program

Robust learning and development program

Regular company and team social activities

Qualifications

• 2+ years of technical experience preferred, new graduates welcome.
• Valid BC Class 5 driver's license required.
• PIBC/CIP regulated members preferred.

Responsibilities

• Process development applications and permits.
• Prepare reports for Council on development applications.
• Conduct research to support planning policies.

Skills

Strong knowledge of planning and development processes

Effective communication skills

Public engagement principles

Municipal planning experience

Ability to collaborate across departments

Education

Degree or diploma in Planning or related field

Job description

• Join a team where you can enjoy career growth and do meaningful work across a variety of projects
• Receive hourly compensation of$55.73 per hour (with increase in January 2026), plus a generous benefits package
• Enjoy a great quality of life and the great outdoors in Fort St John!

About the City of Fort St John

With a population of 21,465, the City of Fort St John, British Columbia, is the largest city in Northeastern BC. Fort St. John is not only the largest city in the Northeast Region of BC; it is also the largest city in British Columbia situated along the world-famous Alaska Highway. Fort St. John is “The Energetic City” for good reason. The title reflects not only our large resource base of oil, natural gas, forestry and agriculture, but also the vitality of our residents. Fort St John is a great place for families, and for people who love nature, to enjoy the great outdoors all year round.

We are committed to shaping the future of this dynamic city, where innovation meets tradition, and where our ideas and contributions truly matter. We offer a supportive and inclusive work environment, competitive compensation packages, and ample opportunities to grow and elevate your career.

To read more about us, please visit fortstjohn.ca.

About the Opportunity

The City of Fort St John is looking for a full-time City/Urban Planner to join their team in Fort St John, British Columbia.

Reporting to the Planning Manager, you will be responsible for processing development applications, supporting policy projects, and providing technical analysis and advice to Council and the community. This is a collaborative role that works closely with Building Officials, Engineering staff, and other departments, offering broad exposure and hands-on experience across a range of planning and development areas.

Your primary responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Processing development permits, temporary use permits, variance permits, subdivisions, and amendments to zoning and official community plans
• Coordinating and preparing administrative reports for Council on development and amendment applications
• Reviewing and commenting on development and servicing agreements related to subdivision files
• Assisting with drafting bylaws, permits, agreements, and related planning documents
• Supporting the Planning Manager on planning projects such as neighbourhood plans, growth strategies, and intermunicipal initiatives
• Conducting research and analysis to support zoning bylaws, planning policies, and amendments
• Coordinating pre-application meetings with applicants, including preparing agendas and recording minutes
• Supporting the Planning Technologist with application guides, forms, and other departmental materials
• Reviewing and providing comments on referrals from external governments and agencies
• Facilitating engagement events and preparing supporting materials for planning projects
• Providing temporary coverage for planning department duties, including the Planning Technologist role when required
• Contributing to and maintaining a safe work environment while upholding the City’s Health and Safety policies

About You

To qualify, you must have a degree or diploma in Planning, or a related field, as well as 2+ years of technical experience. PIBC/CIP regulated members are preferred. While previous experience in planning or a related field is an asset, we also welcome applications from new graduates who are eager to learn and grow in a supportive municipal environment.

A valid BC Class 5 driver’s license, or equivalent, is required.

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Strong knowledge of planning and development processes, current trends, and relevant provincial legislation and municipal bylaws
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public, Council, and internal and external stakeholders
• Experience in public engagement principles and practices, with IAP2 certification considered an asset
• Municipal planning experience
• Experience preparing reports, bylaws, and technical documents
• Ability to collaborate across departments and work with diverse teams

As our ideal candidate, you will be a self-starter who takes initiative, thrives in a collaborative environment, and isn’t afraid to ask questions when needed. You have the confidence to present to Council, the research skills to dive deep into legislation and projects, and the drive to deliver meaningful contributions to your community.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to build their career in municipal planning, gain exposure to a wide variety of projects, and play a vital role in shaping the future of a growing, energetic city.

About the Benefits

As recognition for all your hard work and determination, you can look forward to receiving the hourly salary of$55.73 per hour (with increase to $56.84/hr in January 2026), plus the following benefits:

• Relocation assistance
• Extended health and dental plan
• Life insurance and AD&D insurance
• 16 vacation days, increases to 21 days in 3rd year
• Municipal pension plan
• Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Robust learning and development program
• Regular company and team social activities
• Staff appreciation day - Branded clothes and gear
• And more!

Hear directly from our current Planner I about their experience:

Working as the Planner I for the City of Fort St. John has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I have been given a breadth of experience that far exceeds what I could expect from working for a large City. This position pairs bylaw administration work, such as development permit approvals, with policy writing projects such as assisting with the Zoning Bylaw and Official Community Plan updates. This combination has continuously challenged me and given me an invaluable set of planning skills. The Development Services team is a collaborative, supportive and high performing group. My coworker’s knowledge and experience makes every project easier. The City of Fort St. John as an organization shows great support for its employees. Departmental collaboration is common and Council acknowledges and respects the hard work we do. I highly recommend the City of Fort St. John to any planner wanting to advance their career with an outstanding employer.

If you have the skills necessary to bring success to the role, we invite you to apply today!