Planner I, Park Board - City of Vancouver

AI Summary

This Planner I, Park Board role with the City of Vancouver in Vancouver involves contributing to the strategic planning, policy initiatives, and master plans that guide the development and delivery of the city’s parks, recreation, and natural systems. Key duties include investigating issues, conducting research, developing strategies, and preparing reports for senior management. Top requirements include a degree in planning or a related field, along with a minimum of two years of professional experience in municipal parks and recreation planning.

About the Opportunity

The City of Vancouver is seeking a dedicated Planner I to join its esteemed Park Board, contributing to the city's reputation as one of the world's most liveable and environmentally sustainable urban centres. This pivotal role supports the strategic development and coordination of major projects, comprehensive plans, and policy initiatives that shape the future of Vancouver's cherished parks, recreation facilities, and natural environments. As a key member of the planning team, the successful candidate will play an integral part in advancing the City's core commitments to exceptional public service, sustainability, and an outstanding quality of life for all residents. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional with a passion for urban planning and community well-being to gain valuable experience within a dynamic public service environment, contributing to meaningful work that ensures equitable access to services and supports the needs of citizens with integrity. The City of Vancouver offers a career path where your planning ability can truly make a difference, making this one of the impactful City of Vancouver jobs in Vancouver.

Key Responsibilities and Project Involvement

The Planner I will undertake a diverse range of responsibilities crucial to the development and implementation of the Park Board's strategic objectives. This includes investigating complex problems, identifying critical issues, and actively assisting in the development of study processes and strategic frameworks. A significant aspect of this role involves conducting thorough research and surveys, meticulously analysing results, and evaluating studies to formulate sound policies and recommendations. The Planner I will be responsible for preparing detailed reports for presentation to senior management and the Park Board, ensuring clear communication of findings and proposed solutions. Working collaboratively under the supervision of Planner II and/or Planner III, this position will contribute to complex projects, assisting with the development of project terms of reference, scope, and requests for proposals. The role also involves ensuring the seamless integration of recreation and parks interests, strategies, and policies into broader city-wide planning initiatives, including community plans, official development plans, and large-site redevelopments. Public and stakeholder consultation is a vital component, with the Planner I designing and conducting engagement processes and representing parks and recreation interests at various cross-departmental teams and committees. This experience is fundamental to effective urban planning and the ongoing development of our city's green spaces.

Qualifications and Expertise

To excel in this Planner I position, candidates must possess a strong educational foundation and relevant professional experience. A degree in planning or a closely related field, such as landscape architecture, is required, complemented by a preferred minimum of two years of professional experience specifically within municipal parks and recreation planning or the broader planning field. Some supervisory experience is also preferred, highlighting the leadership potential within this role. Essential experience includes working effectively within interdisciplinary project teams, demonstrating strong facilitation skills, and the ability to evaluate proposals critically while communicating complex ideas clearly and making sound recommendations. Furthermore, candidates should have experience assisting in the development of diverse engagement processes to include a broad range of public and stakeholder groups, showcasing their ability to foster community involvement in park development. A considerable knowledge base encompassing park planning, landscape architecture, urban planning, policy development, municipal parks and recreation trends, and environmental planning is crucial. The successful applicant will demonstrate a proven ability to achieve multiple program objectives within defined timelines, manage complex projects, and work effectively with consultant teams. Strong communication skills, both oral and written, are paramount, particularly excellent report writing ability, alongside the capacity to perform moderately complex technical research independently. The ability to supervise technical staff and make impactful recommendations on park and recreation matters is also highly valued.