Position Overview

The City of Saint John is a vibrant, historic coastal community that is growing at an unprecedented rate. The oldest incorporated City in Canada is seeing a renaissance – diversifying from its historic industrial roots into a destination that attracts both tourists and new residents. From its historic City Market to its rugged coastline, Saint John is a place for everyone. As a Planner, you will have a lead role in shaping the future of Saint John, a City that is committed to a culture of growth, innovation and planning throughout the municipal organization. You will support the leadership of a dynamic team of urban planning professionals in implementing Saint John’s award-winning municipal plan – Plan SJ and driving an agenda of smart growth.

Reporting to the Manager of Community Planning, this position ensures exemplary service to our customers (both public and internal) and makes significant contribution to the Community Planning team in the effective development and delivery of the City’s long-range plans and the processing of complex development approvals.  This position is a current planning role, which will focus on the review of planning applications including Municipal Plan Amendments, Rezonings and Subdivisions.

Key Responsibilities:

As a staff member within the Community Planning Service area, you will be responsible for:

• Overseeing and project managing key projects such as the development and updating of the Municipal Plan, Secondary Plans, and the Zoning By-law, and monitoring relevant planning policy and legislative changes for incorporation into City plans and policies;
• Administering and maintaining the Zoning By-law to facilitate development within the City;
• Reviewing and providing comment on development applications, development concepts, site plans and plans of subdivision and providing technical assistance to other City Service Areas;
• Preparing reports for and attending meetings of Common Council, Planning Advisory Committee, and other committees and organizations as directed by the Director of Community Planning and Housing;
• Performing community and economic development studies and strategies;
• Preparing written materials including Planning Justification Reports, letters and other supporting materials;
• Coordinating multidisciplinary teams, including subconsultants, in support of planning applications and managing the application process from submission to decision;
• Monitoring and forecasting trends in urban development to position the municipality as a leader in progressive planning practices;
• Collaborating across Service Areas to ensure alignment with economic development, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental strategies;
• Working closely with Common Council and Senior Leadership to provide expert advice, reports, and recommendations on major planning decisions and initiatives;
• Engaging with community members and interest-holders, facilitating public consultations and turning feedback into actionable policies;
• Mentoring junior planning professionals and empowering them to excel while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration;
• Other related duties, responsibilities, and functions as may be assigned by the Director of Community Planning and Housing.

Qualifications

Membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners with Registered Professional Planner (RPP) designation is required.

A university degree in planning or a related discipline, preferably at a graduate level.

A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience with demonstrated leadership skills.

Candidates with reduced experience will be considered at a developmental level.

The successful applicant may be eligible to participate in a Flexible Time Options Program which includes the option of working a 4 or 5-day work week, subject to business requirements.

 Equal Opportunity Employer:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live and which we serve. We encourage and support applications from Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minority groups. Candidates who belong to such groups, who are qualified, will be given preference at the time of selection.

Applications will be accepted through our online system only. Qualified applicants should submit their cover letters and resumes to:

City of Saint John

Attn:  Hiring Committee

www.saintjohn.ca (employment opportunities)