Intermediate Resource Planner

Grand River Conservation Authority; Cambridge; Hybrid; CAD 49,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mental health services

OMERS pension

Park access

Job summary

Grand River Conservation Authority in Cambridge, Ontario, is hiring an Intermediate Resource Planner to communicate policies and coordinate responses on planning matters affecting the Grand River watershed.

The role requires a Geography/Environmental Science/Planning background with at least one year of related experience, strong reading of maps and reports, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital mapping software. Hybrid work possible with a start date in September 2026.

Qualifications

• Degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Planning or related discipline.
• Environmental science background with planning coursework/experience preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, and interpersonal abilities.

Responsibilities

• Review and articulate the Authority's position on Planning Applications including Subdivision, Condominium, Official Plan Amendments, site plans and zoning by-laws.
• Coordinate reviews of Environmental Assessments, Municipal Drains and other development proposals.
• Conduct meetings, field inspections and provide statements on policy and regulations.
• Attend multi-disciplinary/agency steering committees and council/open house meetings as required.
• Encourage community outreach to support the Grand River watershed health and resources.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Customer focus

Problem solving

Professional judgement

Integrity/ethics

Goal/action oriented

Education

Degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Planning or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Office

Digital mapping software

Job description

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.

Who you are

You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.

Why work for us

At the GRCA, we don't just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours, one day a week working from home and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you're 'at the office', you won't feel like you're 'at the office'. Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade's Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.

We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.

Overview of the opportunity

This posting is from the result of a vacancy. We have had some promotions from our planning department and as a result are now hiring an Intermediate Resource Planner. This position is responsible to communicate Provincial and Conservation Authority policies and to coordinate responses stating the Authority's position regarding natural hazards through municipal planning matters including the Planning Act; applications under the Conservation Authorities Act through the Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits Regulation and provides assistance in the review of some projects under the Environmental Assessment Act and applications under other legislation.

What you'll do:

Review and provide a statement of the Authority's position and policies on Planning Applications (Subdivision and Condominium applications, site specific Official Plan Amendments, site specific Zoning By-Law Amendments, consents, minor variances, site plans), Solicitor's Enquiries, and provide assistance in the review of: Environmental Assessments, Municipal Drains and other development proposals.

Conduct meetings within and outside of the Authority and perform field inspections related to these applications and inquiries.

Review and provide a statement of the Authority's position and policies on applications pursuant to Ontario Regulation 41/24 (Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits Regulation)

Meet municipal deadlines regarding Planning Act Applications and meet legislated and internal deadlines and standards for permit applications, title clearances, general inquiry requests, etc.

Review, prepare or present documents, position statements or reports relative to the functions noted above.

Attend as the Authority representative multi-disciplinary and/or multi-agency steering committees and with Planners also attend Council Meetings and Open Houses, as required.

Encourage communication and outreach activities that generate support within the local communities for the health and enhancement of the Grand River watershed's natural resources.

Attend as the representative of the Authority appeals before the Ontario Land Tribunal or similar tribunals and if required, cases before the Provincial Courts.

Other related duties as assigned.

Education

Degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Planning or a related discipline. An Environmental Science degree with some planning coursework/experience is preferred.

Experience

Minimum one year related work experience.

Ability to interpret earth processes, natural features and land uses from an extensive variety of maps and plans, use of air photos and interpretation in the field. The use of scales and mathematical calculations are required. Must be able to read and comprehend technical reports such as Environmental Impact Statements, Stormwater Management Reports, Subwatershed Plans, Geotechnical and Hydrogeological studies, and relate them to current Policies and objectives.

A working knowledge of environmental legislation, planning statements and some technical guidelines, i.e., storm water management guidelines.

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral and interpersonal skills

Applicants must have a strong background and related job experience with the Microsoft Office software suite, and use of digital mapping software.

A valid driver's license.

Professional Judgement

Professional Judgement

Integrity/Ethics

Goal/Action Oriented

Team Work

Customer Focus

Compensation and Benefits

• range starting at $43.03 per hour/35 hours per week
• benefits package with mental health services and preventative care
• Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund with 100% employer matching contributions.
• year-round access to GRCA and Conservation Ontario conservation areas (parks).

Approximate Start Date: September 2026

Deadline for Applications: 4:00pm Sept. 2, 2026

We thank you for your interest, however only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

GRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. If you require any accessibility accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact us. Any information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.

Pursuant to section 29(2) of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Individual Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990, C. M.56 the personal information contained on this form is collected under the legal authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter C.27 and is used for recruitment purposes. Questions about the collection of personal information should be directed to the Manager of Human Resources, Grand River Conservation Authority, PO Box 729, 400 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 5W6. 519-621-2761.