Parks Planner

The Regional District of Nanaimo is seeking a Permanent Full-Time Parks Planner to join the Recreation and Parks Department.

Reporting to the Superintendent, Parks Planning, Research and Development, the Parks Planner will be responsible for all aspects of parks planning, including research, community consultation, landscape design, concept plans, management plans and general park planning. Other duties will include reviewing subdivision applications, preparing reports and information for parks committees, assisting with Parks budgets and other related duties, as required. Applications will be accepted until 4:00PM on January 6, 2023

Position Details

This is a permanent full-time (35 hours per week) union position. The (2023) rate of pay is $43.03 to $45.30 per hour. The position offers an attractive benefits package as provided within the collective agreement between the Regional District of Nanaimo and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 401.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Performs all aspects of parks planning including research, community consultation, landscape design, concept plans, management plans and general park planning.
Undertakes the development and design of parks and open spaces including site assessment, use studies, research, and liaison with stakeholders. Prepares concept and detailed designs for specific park developments; prepares work plans, specifications, and preliminary cost estimates.
Prepares parks management plans and management statements. Assists in large planning processes including preparation of terms of reference, tender documents, consultant selection and supervision, liaison with project committees and consultant.
Oversees assigned park planning and landscape design projects, and co-ordinates the preparation of related studies, plans, and reports. Prepares and monitors operation or capital budgets related to these projects.
Provides recommendations to the Manager of Parks Services and planning staff regarding parkland acquisition and dedications. Reviews subdivision applications and development proposals provision and use of parkland in area. Assesses properties to ensure conformity with open space/park planning objectives and design standards; identifies physical planning and development issues. Obtains and monitors various licences, leases and other tenure documents related to parkland.
Collects, maintains and distributes an inventory of all park property including land, equipment, fixtures and sites. Coordinates information with mapping and planning departments.
Prepares, updates and maintains park design standards; oversees the use of standards in various development projects; communicates and relays information regarding standards to park operations staff, volunteer groups, planning department and developers.
Organizes and attends community organization and Electoral Area Park Advisory Committee meetings to provide information, liaison and support regarding the District’s Parks System.
Works with a wide range of citizen organizations and individuals in the development of plans for acquisition, development and management of parks and open space in the RDN. Facilitates and conducts public surveys, open houses and public meetings.
Develops marketing, promotion and educational strategies and materials and coordinates information for distribution. Coordinates park information for local and regional media in collaboration with the Communication Coordinator.
Performs a variety of administrative tasks related to the respective RDN Parks Functions including assisting with the development, control, and expenditure of function budgets and preparation of reports and information for Parks Committees, and the Regional Board regarding parks issues.
Liaises with other RDN departments and government and community agencies regarding issues related to the overall operation of the RDN Parks System.
Responds to public inquiries regarding parks and open space issues in the RDN.
Performs other related duties, as required.