Planning Coordinator

pillarnonprofit.ca; London; On-site; CAD 103,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Group Benefits

Pension Plan (OMERS)

Vacation package

Access to Conservation Areas

Job summary

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) in London, Ontario, seeks a Planning Coordinator to lead day-to-day municipal land use planning and inquiry services, contributing to watershed protection and hazard mitigation.

You will guide staff reviewing Planning Act applications, develop program budgets, and collaborate across disciplines to implement planning policies and advisory services for the UTRCA.

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.
• Strong knowledge of land use planning and natural resource management legislation, regulations and policies, including the Provincial Planning Statement, Planning Act, Conservation Authorities Act.
• Demonstrated understanding of watershed management principles.
• Experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), aerial photo interpretation & mapping.
• 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.

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.

Skills

GIS experience

Communication skills

Project management

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Planning/Resource Management/Environmental Science/Geography

Registered Professional Planner (RPP)

Ontario Driver’s License (G)

Tools

GIS software

Microsoft Office Suite

Microsoft Teams

Job description

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
• 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.
• 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.

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.

Education: A university degree from an accredited post-secondary institution in Planning, Resource Management, Environmental Science, or a Geography-related discipline.