Planning Student

Port Hope; Port Hope; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A progressive municipality in Canada is seeking a Summer Student to assist the Planning Division. The role involves supporting urban and rural land-use planning while engaging with the community and providing quality customer service. Ideal candidates will have post-secondary education in relevant fields, excellent interpersonal skills, and proficiency in computer applications. The position offers compensation of $18.54 - $20.11 per hour and is scheduled from May to August, for 35 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Some post-secondary education in urban, rural, and/or land-use planning.
• Administrative/clerical experience required.
• Interest in community development and heritage conservation.

Responsibilities

• Support Planning Staff with inquiries from land property owners and residents.
• Assist with the technical review of building plans for zoning compliance.
• Help process development applications and prepare reports.
• Coordinate pre-consultation meetings with applicants.
• Maintain good public relations with the development community.

Skills

Intermediate to advanced computer skills

Verbal communication skills

Written communication skills

Interpersonal and customer service skills

Organizational and time management skills

Education

Post-secondary education in urban, rural, and/or general land-use planning or related disciplines

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Port Hope is a uniquely attractive place to work, highlighted by the future development of the world's largest nuclear plant, which promises cutting‑edge infrastructure and economic stability. This diversification into nuclear energy complements the area's strong economic base in agriculture and manufacturing, securing a stable job market. Employees will engage with advanced technology and industry experts, enhancing professional development. The community's warmth promotes work‑life balance, supported by cultural festivals and heritage sites. Proximity to Toronto/GTA provides urban access, while the area's natural beauty invites outdoor recreation. High‑quality education and healthcare, low crime rates, and a commitment to environmental sustainability make Port Hope an exceptional place to live and work, fostering both professional and personal growth.

This Summer Student position will assist the Development Services Department’s Planning Division in a broad range of urban, rural and general land‑use planning as well as assisting in broader community development projects and processes to support the Municipality’s Strategic Plan. The position will also support the Municipality’s planning functions, services, and activities, including staff work for the Heritage Port Hope Advisory Committee, Committee of Adjustment, and other relevant municipal committees.

Compensation and Work Term

$18.54 - 20.11 per hour

May to August, 35 hours per week

Qualifications

• Some post‑secondary education in urban, rural, and/or general land‑use planning, Geography, Architecture, Business, Public Administration or related disciplines with an interest and awareness of community development and heritage conservation
• Administrative/clerical experience and/or customer service experience required.

Responsibilities

• Supports Planning Staff in addressing inquiries (via phone, email, in‑person and written correspondence) from land property owners, residents, property developers, realtors, solicitors, etc. regarding Planning issues such as matters related to Zoning compliance (permitted uses and provisions), the Planning Act process, feasibility of severance, development potential or process in the Municipality of Port Hope, etc.; helps prepare responses directly or following investigation/ research to gather required information; referencing the Official Plan, Zoning by‑laws, Municipal By‑laws and any other documents required as resources of information.
• Supports Planning Staff with technical review of building plans for compliance with the zoning by‑law.
• Supports Planning Staff in processing development applications, including Official Plan and Zoning By‑law Amendments, Subdivision and Site Plan proposals. Conducts research on and interprets applicable local and provincial policies and regulations. Prepares reports, memoranda and other technical documents. Helps prepare the presentation of planning recommendations and opinions to the Development Review Team, Committee of the Whole and Municipal Council.
• Undertakes and administers work in support of the Secretary Treasurer, Committee of Adjustment. Helps to coordinate with applicants and public on behalf of the Municipality of Port Hope including coordinating pre‑consultation meetings with applicants regarding COA applications.
• Under the direction of the Manager, Planning or Director may co‑ordinate, undertake projects and/or act as department liaison on special projects.
• Works with Planning Staff on an ongoing basis to provide advice and information to Municipal Staff, Municipal Council, Development Review Team, and Advisory Committees on all aspects of planning operations and procedures.
• Under the direction of Planning Staff provides information to applicants, consultants, municipal staff, agencies, community groups, and the public on planning matters.
• Helps maintain good public relations with the public and development community.
• May be required to attend after‑hour meetings as requested e.g. Committee of Adjustment, heritage Port Hope Advisory Committee, Committee of the Whole, Council, etc.
• Adheres to high standards of ethical behavior and demonstrate their understanding that their personal actions impact the public’s perception of the Municipality.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Manager, Planning or designate.

Skills and Abilities

• Intermediate to advanced computer skills including Email, Word, and Excel. Experience with GIS software would be considered an asset.
• Verbal communication skills including courtesy, tact and explanation.
• Written communication skills including grammar/spelling skills.
• Interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Organizational and time management skills.

Other

• Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.
• Office environment with some interruptions.

Submit an Application

Please submit your cover letter and resume online at Careers - Municipality of Port Hope by Friday February 5, 2026. This position is currently vacant.

Recruitment Process

The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.

We are committed to creating and sustaining an environment that provides a supportive workplace and equal opportunity for all employees. Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.