Agricultural Planning CoordinatorBranchPlanning and Development ServicesPosition TypeCUPE Local 556Number of Positions1Salary$44.82 per hourHours Per Week35Employment TypePermanent Full-TimeCompetition TypeInternal/External PostingDate postedMay 20, 2026 We are accepting applications for a full-time Agricultural Planning Coordinator to join our Planning and Development Services team. This position will support the agriculture sector in the Comox Valley by coordinating the development and implementation of agricultural initiatives and policies that strengthen the local food system, promote sustainability, build climate resilience, and encourage sector development. This position is fundamentally outward-facing and highly independent, serving as a key link between the CVRD and the local agriculture community. The Coordinator is expected to actively facilitate opportunities for collaboration that align with priorities identified in the Comox Valley Agricultural Plan, needs of the sector and the CVRD Board?s strategic priorities. A core expectation of this role is navigating the complexities of local government and establishing strong, trust-based relationships across the agri-food systems by showing up consistently, listening deeply, activelysharing information and bringing additional capacity to the community to enable collective action.Reporting to the Community Development and Resilience Manager, the primary responsibilities of this role include: Leading the implementation, monitoring, and periodic revision of the Comox Valley Agricultural Plan and related policy initiatives; Building and maintaining strong relationships with the local agriculture community as well as other partners in the agri-food value chain; Coordinating engagement, developing and maintaining effective channels of communication and information sharing between CVRD and the local agricultural community; Collaborating with local producers, processors, farmers? institutes and associations, K?ómoks First Nation, regional partners and provincial ministry staff;  Researching and analyzing agricultural trends, land use data and local food system dynamics to inform planning and recommend policy; Identifying and recommending agriculture priorities and areas of advocacy; Leading or supporting the planning, coordination, and delivery of agricultural programs, projects, and special events; Identifying grant and funding opportunities and fostering collaboration with internal and external partners on agri-food initiatives; Supporting public consultation and engagement processes related to rural agriculture planning processes and policy initiatives.Our ideal candidate is: A relationship builder and collaborator able to develop and maintain effective working relationships and build trust with diverse groups including farmers, processors, community organizations, rights holders and government agencies;  Current in relevant legislation, regulations and best practices in agricultural policy and planning, land use planning, rural development and agri-food systems at the local and provincial levels; Educated in Agriculture, Environmental Planning, Land Use Planning, Geography, or another related discipline with an undergraduate degree of four years, or equivalent; Experienced in public facing agricultural planning or policy development, rural development, or related community economic development with over three years of progressively responsible experience (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered); Able to create and present reports and presentations in a professional manner in person and virtually; Familiar with provincial and national agri-food programs and funding opportunities;  Current in the mandate, operating environment, board objectives, strategic priorities, structure and operations of the CVRD; Self-motivated, organized and able to balance multiple priorities;  Experienced in strategic planning and preparing and developing policy reco