TITLE:     Planner
SALARY:     Starting at $48,560
DEPARTMENT:     Development Services
TERM:     Full Time

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Planner reports directly to the Senior Planner and performs a variety of professional and technical level duties in the field of current and long-range planning, and to provide information and assistance to developers, the business community, WFN members, and the public on planning, zoning, land use, permits and development related matters.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reviews applications for residential, commercial, and industrial developments
Reviews, evaluates and makes recommendations regarding rezoning, land use amendments and development applications
Evaluates alternatives and conformance with WFN laws; prepares and presents staff reports regarding such applications
Ensures compliance of applications with WFN policies, laws and external agency requirements
Responds to general queries with respect to WFN land use planning issues
Develops terms of reference, reviews and recommends consultants and monitors the provision of contract service
Conducts planning research including preparing reports for capital projects
Assists in the preparation of conceptual development plans of WFN capital projects
Prepares related reports, project specifications, schedules and cost estimates
Assists the Senior Planner in the preparation of long range and current planning policies, laws, amendments and reports
Builds strong working relationships with WFN internal departments as well as local government municipalities
Represents Westbank First Nation from time to time on regional planning related committees
Liaises with residents, consultants, government agencies, and the public on related planning queries
Prepares public consultation materials and facilitates public participation in the planning process
Reviews and conducts site visit field inspections including reviewing and monitoring inspection reports
Participates in the development and review of new and current planning policies
Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation Laws, policies, standards and procedures
Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s Degree with a specialty in Planning or a degree in a related field
Membership or eligibility for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners is preferred
Minimum 2 years planning experience in a local government setting or equivalent
Excellent communications and team-oriented interpersonal skills
Commitment to excellent customer service
Excellent research, analytical and verbal/written/platform communication skills, including demonstrated public relations skills
Strong project management, time management and problem solving skills supported by the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, the public, developers and other WFN staff and stakeholders
Experience in processing applications of varying complexity along with the organizational ability to lead and mentor teams that juggle multiple assignments while adapting to fluctuating workloads and deadlines
Experience and/or related training in survey techniques, GIS, map interpretation, map compilation, graphics, statistical analysis, civil infrastructure design experience and working in a diversified planning background which preferably includes work for a Local Government
Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of urban planning and design
Sound knowledge of applicable WFN, municipal, provincial and federal legislation
Sound knowledge of MS word, Excel and Powerpoint
Experience with InDesign, sketching, Adobe Creative Suite, Illustrator, Photoshop and GIS/Autocad would be an asset
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Ability to manage several tasks and deadlines concurrently
Valid B.C. Driver’s License and acceptable driving abstract