Planning Coordinator

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority; London; On-site; CAD 78,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits

OMERS Pension

Vacation package

Access to conservation areas

Job summary

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority in London, Ontario, seeks a Planning Coordinator to lead day-to-day municipal land use planning and inquiry services, helping protect life and property from natural hazards. You will guide staff reviewing Planning Act applications, interpret Provincial Planning Statement policies, and contribute to the program budget and workplan.

The role requires a university degree in Planning or related field, about five years of experience, GIS proficiency, and a

Qualifications

• Degree in Planning, Resource Management, Environmental Science, or Geography.
• Approximately five years in resource management or municipal planning.
• Strong knowledge of Planning Act, Provincial Planning Statement, Conservation Authorities Act.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for review of Planning Act applications and policy interpretation.
• Lead complex or contentious applications with informed comments and recommendations.
• Support program budgeting and annual workplan; develop new policies.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on planning matters; represent at meetings.

Skills

GIS proficiency

Communications

Project management

Time management

Team leadership

Education

University degree in Planning or related field

RPP designation or actively pursuing

Ontario Driver’s License (G)

Job description

Job Status: Permanent, Full-Time

Compensation: $56.46 (starting) to $68.70 per hour

Number of Positions: 1 existing vacancy

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Benefits: Comprehensive Group Benefits, Pension Plan (OMERS) and Vacation package; complementary access to UTRCA Conservation Areas (Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock)

Location: UTRCA, 1424 Clark Road, London

Application Closing Date: November 4, 2026

At the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), our mission is Communities engaged in a healthy, resilient environment. We work in partnership with the 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed, whose appointed representatives bring both urban and rural perspective to our Board of Directors. Together, we shape policies and programs that reflect the needs of our communities and support the long-term health of our watershed.

We Focus On Five Key Areas

• Protecting people and property and supporting safe development
• Delivering landowner stewardship
• Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities
• Making science-based decisions
• Empowering communities and youth.

The Upper Thames River watershed spans approximately 3,421 square kilometers and includes predominately rural landscapes, as well as the urban centers of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. We serve a diverse population of approximately 600,000 residents. Our Conservation Areas offer outdoor recreational opportunities that welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, helping to educate visitors and share conservation messages that support the health of our watershed.

As a member of our team, you will support our mission by contributing your skills, knowledge, and experience to meaningful work. We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger and are committed to creating a collaborative, inclusive environment where people feel supported, respected, and encouraged to do their best work together. If this opportunity aligns with your experience or interests, we invite you to apply.

Role Summary

The Planning Coordinator is responsible for providing day-to-day leadership for the implementation of the UTRCA’s municipal land use planning and inquiry services. Through these programs, the Planning Coordinator is responsible for contributing toward the achievement of the UTRCA’s goals, including the protection of life and property from natural hazards such as flooding and erosion.

Responsibilities

• Providing leadership, guidance and mentorship to staff involved in the review of Planning Act applications and the interpretation of Provincial Planning Statement policies related to Natural Hazards.
• Leading the review of complex or contentious applications under the Planning Act and other applicable legislation, and providing clear informed comments and recommendations.
• Supporting the strategic direction for the Planning program by working with the Manager on the development and implementation of the program budget and annual workplan.
• Contributing to various program activities and assisting in developing new policies for the Authority’s Planning Advisory Services.
• Working with an interdisciplinary team of professionals to provide effective project management and technical assistance as it relates to planning and development matters relevant to UTRCA.
• Representing the UTRCA by providing planning expertise at a variety of meetings, committees, boards, hearings and tribunals.

Qualifications

• A university degree from an accredited post-secondary institution in Planning, Resource Management, Environmental Science, or a Geography-related discipline.
• Approximately five (5) years of relevant experience in resource management or municipal planning role, or a combination of experience and related professional practice appropriate to the role.
• Strong knowledge of land use planning and natural resource management legislation, regulations and policies, including the Provincial Planning Statement, Planning Act, Conservation Authorities Act, with practical experience applying this knowledge when reviewing development applications.
• Demonstrated understanding of watershed management principles.
• Experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), aerial photo interpretation & mapping, or the ability to develop proficiency with these tools as required.
• Strong communication skills, with staff and diverse stakeholder groups including the community, governments and agencies at a political and staff level.
• Experience supervising, mentoring, and supporting a team in a collaborative environment.
• Strong project management and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, and other database or information management software.

Certifications, Memberships, Licenses

• Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation, or actively working towards achieving this designation.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License (G class) is required.

Background Check Requirements

• Successful candidates will be required to provide a satisfactory police check prior to commencement of employment.

We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging. We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and as requested by applicants. Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.

Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities Act R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, s. 18 (1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

1424 Clarke Road

London, ON, N5V 5B9

519-451-2800