Planning Technologist, Land Use Planning

Reporting to the Land Use Planning Department Manager, the Planning Technologist is responsible for preparing draft conceptual plans, sketches, site plans and plans of subdivision and other plans as assigned for land development projects. The position will also provide geographic information system (GIS) support and development for the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce detailed project drawings and technical plans using AutoCAD Civil 3D, ensuring design integrity throughout all project phases from development to construction.
• Liaise with staff, clients, agencies, sub-consultants, and other stakeholders, maintaining transparent communication, addressing inquiries, and participating in project meetings with documentation and progress reporting.
• Support GIS initiatives through data analysis, visualization, reporting, and collaboration with Planning staff, Project Managers, and other departments.
• Assist with the preparation of relevant reporting documentation and proposals for land use planning and interdepartmental projects.
• Participate in project-related meetings and provide progress reports on deliverables to internal and external contacts.
• Stay current on relevant procedures, policies, and local, provincial, and federal regulations, ensuring compliance and applying requirements to current and future projects.
• Conduct programmatic and manual analysis, modeling and create reports and thematic maps to support decision making.
• Design, implement, document, and maintain geo-spatial data and geographic information systems and platform integration strategies.
• Plan, monitor, and manage projects to ensure effective solution delivery and appropriate resource management.

Significant qualifications and experience

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Geosciences, Geomatics, Computer Science, Planning, Geography, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of AutoCAD and AutoCAD Civil 3D.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a GIS systems environment and/or information technology.
• General knowledge of various design standards and requirements, such as OPSS and OPSD.
• Experience working with the ESRI Platform (ArcMap/ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online) and related tools such as AutoCAD, QGIS, Google Earth, and GeoHecRas.
• Experience with integration patterns and standards such as web services, REST/SOAP, data exchange, and interoperability concepts.
• Experience with relational databases (Oracle, MS-SQL) and programming languages/tools such as SQL, Python, Java, or FME.
• Working knowledge of GIS concepts, including spatial analysis, data management, and application development.
• Experience applying systems development methodologies and business/systems analysis (including process and data modeling, design and development strategies, and best practices).
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with effective time management to meet project deadlines.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a strong work ethic.
• Strong communication and customer service skills, with the ability to keep stakeholders informed and respond to inquiries promptly.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite and internet research applications.
• Knowledge of local, provincial and federal regulations and legislation.
• Understanding of the land use planning process as it pertains to the land development sector, with relevant application experience.
• Ability to contribute to professional reports and presentations.

Work Culture

At Wills, we build partnerships with our team members, clients and community rooted in respect and fostered through a work environment that is committed to supporting, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We form partnerships with our staff, our clients, and the public to create solutions that work for today’s complex problems.

We believe what we do has a significant impact on the communities where we live and work.

We value smart work and promote a work-life balance for team members with flexible work options including hybrid work (in office/remote). We provide a social and professional environment to support your personal and professional goals.

Why this Job Matters

The work we do has a direct impact on how communities are shaped for our friends, families, and the people of Ontario. This is a responsibility that we take very seriously. Our projects and the decisions made by our various teams have a direct impact on the people, environment, and economy, both locally and provincially, making it important to hire top talent.

What You Will Gain

As a Planning Technologist, you will maintain and build on the great reputation of the company and Planning team. You will have the opportunity to apply your GIS and land use planning skills to a variety of projects. Depending on your interests and motivation, this job can provide an opportunity for growth within the Land Use Planning Department.

At Wills, we form partnerships with our staff, our clients, and the public to create solutions that work for today’s complex problems.

Wills offers a competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits and merit-based bonuses for performance and tenure. Salary will be commensurate with experience. D.M. Wills wants to meet candidates where they’re at in their life. This position will include in-office work from our Peterborough office with hybrid work options available as well.

We sincerely thank all candidates for their interest, however, please note that only those applicants selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Throughout the selection process, accommodations are available to candidates upon request, please advise us if you require accommodation.