The posting
Position Summary Reporting to the Manager, Regional Planning, this entry to mid-level position of strategic importance within the Regional Planning Department requires a high degree of professionalism, collaboration, strategic and creative thinking, and research capability. The position requires thorough knowledge of applicable legislation and regulations and the planning framework and processes in Alberta. The Regional Planner works collaboratively with the Regional Planning Team to advance the County’s interests within the Calgary Region and support strategic regional and intermunicipal initiatives. The position requires a high degree of political awareness and sensitivity, particularly in building and maintaining regional partnerships, navigating interjurisdictional interests, and advancing complex regional projects. Core Accountabilities
Actively participate in provincial, regional, and sub-regional committees, task forces, and advisory groups. Review materials for associated meetings and coordinate County input through collaboration with other departments. Undertake research, analysis, and policy reviews related to regional and sub-regional planning matters. Act as a resource to internal departments, Council, and the public on regional and sub-regional planning matters. Attend Intermunicipal Committee meetings and other external stakeholder meetings, as required. Review and respond to referrals from internal departments, regional partners, municipalities, and government agencies. Assist in the preparation and implementation of regionally significant municipal policy and statutory plans, including Intermunicipal Development Plans, Municipal Development Plans, and Area Structure Plans. Monitor and review municipal and intermunicipal planning legislation, policy, processes, plans, and initiatives and assess implications for the County. Prepare and present reports, materials, recommendations, and professional planning advice as a representative of Rocky View County to government and non-government agencies, committees, and other stakeholders, as required. Participate in the County’s circulation, review, and engagement processes related to provincial, regional, and sub-regional planning matters. Prepare reports for, and present to, Council, senior management, intermunicipal committees, and other stakeholders on projects within the Regional Planner’s area of responsibility. Project manage strategic and intermunicipal initiatives within the department’s portfolio, including projects arising from Council priorities and strategic objectives. Build and maintain effective working relationships with neighbouring municipalities, provincial agencies, regional organizations, and other external partners. Work in accordance with the requirements established by the RVC Health and Safety Program and the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation, and Code. Take reasonable care to protect their own health and safety and that of other persons at or in the vicinity of the worksite. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Position Requirements A bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field is required. A minimum of two (2) to five (5) years of demonstrated professional planning experience is required (compensation commensurate with experience). A demonstrated track record of working collaboratively in a team environment and successfully completing complex assignments is also required. Experience should include demonstrated knowledge of planning within a rural municipal context, an understanding of the interrelationships between jurisdictions and their respective interests, and a thorough understanding of Alberta’s provincial, regional, and municipal planning and legislative framework.
Understands and applies provincial, regional, and municipal planning policies, legislation, processes, procedures, and statutory planning documents. Interprets and applies relevant municipal and provincial legislation and policy to the development, review, and preparation of planning documents with a high degree of accuracy and professional judgment. Demonstrates strong project management skills in organizing cross-functional teams, establishing schedules, documenting decisions, coordinating deliverables, and advancing significant County and regional initiatives. Works independently and collaboratively to research, evaluate, and synthesize complex information and communicate findings clearly and concisely. Demonstrates strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with attention to detail and accuracy. Demonstrates knowledge of land use planning, growth management, infrastructure planning, regional servicing, and environmental planning concepts and their application within a rural and regional context. Works collaboratively and communicates effectively with team members, internal departments, neighbouring municipalities, regional partners, provincial government representatives, and other external stakeholders. Demonstrates strong presentation and facilitation skills when working with Council, senior management, intermunicipal committees, external stakeholders, and government agencies. Manages time effectively and demonstrates the ability to prioritize multiple projects, deadlines, and competing demands, including work within irregular or compressed timelines. Demonstrates the ability to think strategically and creatively in developing solutions to both short-term issues and long-term planning challenges. Exercises sound professional judgment and understands the broader organizational, political, regional, and community implications of recommendations and decisions. Demonstrates the ability to work effectively under pressure and respond appropriately to emerging or complex issues. Demonstrates flexibility in moving between detailed technical analysis and broader strategic and policy-based planning responsibilities. Eligibility for Full Membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) is considered an asset. Previous related experience, particularly within a municipal or other public-sector environment, is considered an asset. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Possesses a valid Class 5 driver’s licence.
