Planning Technician - FT Temp

Town of Canmore•Canmore, AB

5d•CA$47 - CA$53•Onsite

About The Position

The Planning Technician supports the Town's commitment to responsible growth and effective land use management by reviewing, processing, and facilitating a wide range of planning applications and municipal processes. This role ensures compliance with planning legislation, bylaws, and policies while serving as a key resource for the public, internal departments, and external agencies seeking planning guidance and information. By carefully evaluating and deciding on development proposals, conducting site investigations and enforcement, processing planning service requests, and maintaining systems and databases, the Planning Technician helps maintain the integrity of the planning system and protects community interests. Through collaborative work with colleagues across departments and transparent communication with interest holders, this position contributes directly to the Town's ability to serve its community with respect, clarity, and sound planning practices.

Requirements

Recognized post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree in Planning Technician, Urban Planning, Land use planning, or similar field (e.g., GIS and Urban Planning, Land & Water Resources, Architectural Technology)
One (1) year of work experience developing, reviewing, and interpreting construction drawings for compliance with applicable municipal and provincial requirements
Demonstrated ability to review and interpret planning documents, including site plans, architectural drawings, and engineering specifications
Knowledge of land use planning principles, zoning regulations, and municipal planning processes
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex planning concepts clearly to diverse audiences, including the general public and interest holders
Proficiency with municipal database and document management systems, or demonstrated ability to quickly learn such systems
Competency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and Excel, for preparing reports, correspondence, and tracking systems
Ability to conduct thorough document reviews, identify discrepancies, and prepare detailed technical reports
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple applications and deadlines simultaneously
Demonstrated strength in analytical and mathematical tasks

Nice To Haves

Eligibility for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners/Alberta Professional Planning Institute, or Canadian Association of Certified Planning Technicians
Experience with CityView or similar municipal planning software systems, and reviewing plans in BlueBeam
Experience with InDesign
Experience with AutoCAD
Familiarity with Alberta planning legislation, including the Municipal Government Act and regional planning frameworks
Experience conducting site inspections and documenting site conditions
Previous experience supporting planning committees, boards, or public consultation processes
Knowledge of municipal bylaw development and enforcement practices
Experience working in a municipal government or public sector environment

Responsibilities

Review and Process Planning Applications: Receive, log, and review small to medium planning applications and service requests (e.g., Development Permits, Building Permits, Confirmation of Zoning, Certificates of Conformance, File Search Request, Civic Address proposals, and Stamps of Compliance) for completeness and compliance with municipal bylaws and planning legislation.
Identify missing information or deficiencies and communicate requirements to applicants in a clear, respectful manner.
Conduct thorough technical reviews of construction drawings to ensure compliance with applicable municipal and provincial standards.
Prepare detailed review reports documenting findings, recommendations, and conditions for planning decisions.
Track application progress and coordinate timelines to meet statutory and internal deadlines.
Evaluate Development Proposals and Site Conditions: Analyze site plans, architectural drawings, and engineering documents for land use compatibility and planning policy alignment.
Conduct site investigations and document conditions to inform planning assessments and recommendations.
Assess proposals against zoning regulations, design guidelines, and development standards.
Identify potential impacts on community interests and recommend mitigation measures where appropriate.
Provide Planning Guidance and Support: Respond to public inquiries regarding planning requirements, processes, and municipal policies in a helpful and transparent manner.
Serve as a resource to internal departments and external agencies seeking planning information and clarification.
Prepare informational materials and documentation to support the planning process and public engagement.
Collaborate with colleagues across departments to address interdepartmental planning matters and coordinate municipal processes.
Maintain Records and Documentation: Create and maintain accurate, organized records of all planning applications and service requests, reviews, and decisions using municipal systems such as CityView and SharePoint.
Prepare correspondence, reports, and analyses to ensure professional presentation and accuracy.
Develop spreadsheets and databases to track planning metrics, timelines, and compliance indicators.
Ensure all documentation is complete, clearly written, and readily accessible for internal and external review.
Support Planning Processes and Compliance: Assist in coordinating public consultation processes, committee meetings, and planning hearings as required.
Monitor changes to planning legislation, bylaws, and policies to ensure Town practices remain current and compliant.
Contribute to the preparation of planning reports, studies, and initiatives that support responsible growth and effective land use management.
Prepare reports and present planning matters before the Subdivision Development Appeal Board and/or the Canmore Planning Commission.
Ensure compliance with and enforcement of provisions of the Land Use Bylaw, Municipal Government Act, and Town Bylaws and policies as they apply to the full range of municipal planning services.
Health and Safety: Fulfill worker responsibilities under the Town of Canmore Health & Safety Directive.
Participate in the Town's health and safety program, following all safety legislation, policies, and procedures.
Perform work safely and protect the health and safety of self and others.
Refrain from causing or participating in harassment or violence.
Report incidents, injuries, and unsafe or harmful worksites, acts, or conditions.