Senior Planner, Urban Design

The City of Markham is proud to be recognized for the 4th consecutive year as one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes and Statista Inc. In 2024, the City of Markham is ranked the top city in Ontario and in the top 10 for Government Services. The recipient of multiple environmental awards, we are recognized for our innovative sustainability and urban planning initiatives as well as our fiscal accountability. More than 357,000 residents call Markham home and benefit from our rich heritage, culturally diverse environment, vibrant local economy and focus on quality of life.

Applications are now being accepted for the above regular full-time position in the Planning & Urban Design Department of the Development Services Commission. To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume online by April 12, 2024.

Join us and make a lasting difference!

Job Summary
The Senior Planner in Urban Design, is responsible for providing professional urban design advice and the preparation of design guidance for built form, streetscape, site planning and landscape architecture, as applicable for official plan amendments, re-zoning, subdivision, minor variance, severance, and site plan applications.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Represent the Urban Design group as a member of one of the City’s Development District teams to review and process development applications
• Provide input and contribute towards innovative design solutions to ensure the development of complete sustainable communities
• Contribute to and manage special studies and projects related to Planning and Urban Design, and other departments as needed
• Develop new initiatives to promote the City's Urban Design agenda and champion sustainability objectives in all areas of work
• Work with the latest technologies including AMANDA and E-Plan to maintain all development applications and project work, and work with the Manager to develop, improve, and implement internal processes and procedures
• Promote the conservation and preservation of trees through applicable policies and regulations
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Education and Experience Required

• University degree in Landscape Architecture, Urban Design or related discipline, additional education or degree in Architecture or Planning an asset
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in the Planning and Urban Design field
• Preference given to those with membership in OALA, OPPI, OAA or related professional organization
• Able to read and understand Landscape and Engineering drawings such as Site Plans, Draft Plans of Subdivision, Elevations, Underground Parking Plans, Streetscape, Planting Plans, Details, Grading, Servicing, Composite Utility Plans, and Strata Plans
• Knowledge and understanding of design and construction details and specifications, particularly related to the public realm
• Strong understanding of built form, public realm and community design
• Thorough knowledge of municipal approval processes, such as the Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, Site Plan Control etc., and associated urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, built form, materials, construction, and planning requirements as applicable
• Familiar with policy and standards relating to the preservation and stewardship of the natural environment and sustainability in both the natural and built environment
• Proficient design, graphics and computer skills (knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe CS, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Project Dox and AMANDA would be an asset)
• Provide analytical review and superior report writing, presentation and public speaking skills
• Able to successfully negotiate and liaise, using strong communication, interpersonal, customer service and leadership skills, with staff at all levels within the Development Services Commission and across the City, stakeholder agencies, developers, and consultants
• Able to meet deadlines under pressure using strong organizational, time management and problem solving skills
• Creative & goal-oriented with the ability to add value to projects and design solutions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and Project
• Proficiency in using Adobe Creative Suite, Auto CAD, Sketch-Up and other drawing/graphic programs an asset
• Must have a valid Ontario Drivers License – Class ‘G’ and access to personal vehicle for business purposes
• Must have a satisfactory drivers abstract
• Must be able to attend site meetings at various locations throughout Markham during and after regular business hours

Core Behaviours

• Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behaviour and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process.