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Planner I (Urban Landscape Development)

Company

The City of Vancouver is striving to become the greenest city in the world by 2020 and we are proud to be one of BC's Top Employers, Canada's Best Diversity Employers, and one of Canada's Greenest Employers.

With employees that have helped Vancouver consistently rank as one of the world's most livable cities, the City values a diverse workforce which represents the vibrant community we so proudly serve.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose and Function
Performs specialized professional landscape architectural work within the Planning, Urban Design and Sustainability Department.  The work includes providing landscape architectural guidance to applicants and other departments during the review of rezoning applications and complex development projects; contributing specialized landscape knowledge during the development of new standards and practices and assisting the Manager with the supervision of Landscape Development Specialist staff (LDS). The Landscape Development Planner will also be responsible for assisting in the implementation of recent policies including the Urban Forest Strategy, Access to Nature and green infrastructure planning and design.

Key Contacts and Reporting Relationships

Reports to the Manager of Urban Landscape Development.  Works closely with Development Planners from the Urban Design Division and Project Coordinators from the Development Review Branch.  Liaises with Park Board and Engineering staff on project reviews and policy development.  Oversees the work of Landscape Development Specialist staff. 

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assists the Manager of Urban Landscape Development with the administration of the division, including training new staff, assigning and reviewing work, and developing new procedures and process guidelines.
  • Performs research and assists the Manager and other Planners in the preparation of new policies and landscape design guidelines.
  • Performs rezoning and complex development project reviews and processes development and building permit applications, to ensure compliance with the Zoning and Development By-law, the Protection of Trees By-law, and all relevant policies, guidelines and standards as adopted by Council.  Provides guidance for applicants and other departments on design of public realm interface, private property open spaces, building and site design for tree retention and other urban design principles, application of green infrastructure design and planting, hardscape, grading and drainage details.
  • Works independently and supervises the work of assigned staff  provides technical and process guidance; reviews reports and design conditions prepared by LDS staff for the Director of Planning; reviews reports prepared by inspections staff for submission to the City Prosecutor.
  • Assists in the preparation and presentation of reports to Committees of Council or civic boards; attends committees of Council, and other civic and outside meetings to make presentations and answer questions related to Major Projects and Re-zonings; assists the Manager of Urban Landscape Development and/or Assistant Director of Planning and Urban Design in preparing and making presentations to Council.  Performs other duties as assigned.
Education: 

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

  • University graduation in Landscape Architecture and a preferred minimum of five years related professional experience and some supervisory experience.
  • Eligibility for membership in the British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects or the Canadian Institute of Planners is desired.
  • Certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) as a Certified Arborist is desired.
Experience: 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Considerable knowledge of landscape architecture, urban planning; policy development; municipal planning and development processes; and environmental planning and urban sustainability initiatives.
  • Considerable experience with large scale projects such as rezonings and complex development projects.
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of landscape architecture and development projects.  Considerable knowledge of landscape construction methods, materials, tools and equipment.  Experience with reviewing sketch plans, specifications and preliminary cost estimates for a variety of development projects.
  • Sound knowledge of planning and research methodologies.
  • Ability to achieve multiple program objectives within defined timelines.
  • Ability to communicate ideas effectively, both orally and in writing including excellent report writing skills.
  • Ability to perform moderately complex technical research and prepare reports independently.
  • Ability to supervise technical staff.
  • Ability to communicate ideas and make recommendations.
  • Ability to work effectively with the citizens, City staff and officials, and other interested groups. 

Business Unit/Department: Planning, Urban Design & Sustainability (1275)

Affiliation: CUPE 15

Employment Type: Temporary Full Time 

Positon Start Date: March, 2018

Position End Date: May, 2020

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-29: $43.09 to $50.95 per hour

All interested applicants to apply here: https://career17.sapsf.com/sfcareer/jobreqcareer?jobId=7162&company=city...

Application Close: February 25, 2018

 

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion

 

 

Contact: 
Luca Patrk
Phone: 
(604) 871-6177
Click to view background photo & credits
Project: Westminster Pier Park
Landscape Architect / Firm: PWL Partnership Landscape Architects Inc.
Location: New Westminster, British Columbia
Photo Credit: PWL Partnership Landscape Architects Inc.