Planning and Regulations Technician

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a community-focused environmental agency committed to the conservation and management of natural resources. As a Planning and Regulation Technician, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that development aligns with regulations while providing valuable information to the public. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with local municipalities and contribute to sustainable practices in the Lakehead Watershed. With a focus on teamwork and effective communication, you will thrive in a supportive environment that values health and safety. If you are passionate about environmental stewardship and eager to make a difference, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefit program

OMERS pension fund membership

Health and safety prioritization

Dedicated team environment

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in a relevant field is essential.
• Knowledge of environmental legislation and planning processes is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate planning applications and respond to public inquiries.
• Conduct field inspections and prepare digital maps using GIS.

Skills

GIS Software

Environmental Legislation

Planning and Regulation

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Microsoft Office 365

Education

Post-secondary education in planning, geography, environmental science, or related discipline

Tools

GIS Software

Standard Office Software

Job description

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) is a community-based environmental non-profit agency that provides for the organization and delivery of programs and services that further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in the Lakehead Watershed. Our Vision is a healthy, safe and sustainable Lakehead Watershed for future generations. Our Mission is to lead the conservation and protection of the Lakehead Watershed.

As legislated, the LRCA provides mandatory programs that manage the risk of natural hazards, manage lands owned by the Authority, protect sources of drinking water and monitors groundwater and surface water. The Authority also provides non-mandatory programs including programs at the request of a municipality (GIS mapping service, water sampling) and programs that the LRCA considers to be beneficial to the watershed such as stewardship on public and private lands and environmental education programming.

The Authority is responsible for the administration of Ontario Regulation 41/24 under the Conservation Authorities Act which regulates development in areas where the control of flooding, erosion, dynamic beaches, unstable soil and bedrock may be affected by development. The Authority also comments on Member Municipality planning applications related to natural hazards.

The Planning and Regulation Technician, under the direction of the Watershed Manager, will assist in implementing planning and regulatory programs, ensuring development aligns with LRCA policies and Ontario Regulation 41/24 under the Conservation Authorities Act, as well provide planning comments on Planning Act applications submitted to our Member Municipalities. The position will be responsible for providing planning and regulation information to the public and agencies and maintaining the files for the planning regulation program area. The individual will work closely with Authority planning and regulations staff.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education from a recognized college or university in planning, geography, environmental science, water resources (or other related discipline).
• Knowledge and experience with the Conservation Authorities Act, Ontario Regulation 41/24 and Provincial Planning Statement would be considered an asset.
• Working knowledge of environmental legislation, permit approval processes, and technical guidelines would be considered an asset.
• Experience with GIS software products is considered an asset.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, surveys and air photos is required.
• Ability to work well in a team environment with other staff.
• Ability to interact and work well with the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing is required.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficiency with standard office software including Microsoft Office 365.
• Satisfactory police check and drivers abstract.
• Must possess and maintain a valid “G” driver’s license.
• Ability to work outside in adverse conditions is required.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate new files for follow-up with department staff.
• Review and process Municipal Planning Act application circulations as part of LRCA’s Plan Review Program.
• Respond to public, legal and real estate inquiries regarding development proposals and LRCA regulations.
• Respond to information requests from consultants, other agencies and the public for planning and regulatory information.
• Conduct field inspections relating to planning applications and LRCA permit applications and other watershed management programs.
• Prepare digital maps, using GIS software as needed.
• Assist and participate in education and outreach activities, where appropriate and as assigned.
• Organize and maintain department’s records and files.
• Adhere to all LRCA policies and procedures.
• The position will also be required to assist as needed in other program areas such as: Flood Forecasting and Warning, Low Water Response, Water Quality and Quantity Monitoring.
• Undertake other related duties as required, and as assigned, by the supervisor or CAO.

Conditions of Employment:

• 35 hours/week
• Annual Salary $60,247 to $70,493
• We offer competitive wages, a comprehensive benefit program and are members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund.

We value the health and well-being of our employees and prioritize Health and Safety in our workplace. You will work with a dedicated team that is committed to the LRCA’s Vision and Mission. Please refer to our website www.lakeheadca.com for general information about the LRCA.

Deadline for applications: January 17, 2025, 4:30 p.m.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a detailed resume and cover letter, marked private and confidential, addressed to:

We thank all applicants, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The information provided will only be used for the purposes of this position and will be managed in confidence within the “Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act”.