Planner 3, Development Applications

The City of Richmond is committed to be the most appealing, livable, well-managed community in Canada, a goal that is only made possible by developing our most valuable asset – our people. This is a great opportunity to join our team and shape our community. The City of Richmond offers competitive pay programs, comprehensive benefits and attractive incentives. If you are looking to make a difference, and to share our vision “to be the most appealing, livable, and well-managed community in Canada”, then please apply.

Join the City of Richmond's Development team as a Planner 3 and be at the forefront of urban innovation and transformation. Reporting to the Program Manager, Housing this pivotal role offers the chance to influence high-density residential developments and pioneering planning initiatives that will define the future of our community.

As a Planner 3, you'll be the driving force behind a variety of high-density residential projects, from complex rezonings to Official Community Plan (OCP) amendments. You'll provide expert urban design advice, ensure compliance with city guidelines, and work collaboratively with stakeholders to bring visionary projects to life. Your contributions will be instrumental in preparing land use policies, zoning bylaws, and development permit guidelines that support Richmond’s growth and sustainability goals.

Key Accountabilities

Project Management: Oversee a high volume of intricate housing development applications, including OCP amendments, rezonings, and development permits.

Complex Application Processing: Handle high-rise mixed-use rezonings and development permits, balancing competing objectives and ensuring alignment with public realm goals.

Policy Development: Lead the preparation of community planning policies, bylaws, design guidelines, and staff reports to City Council. Drive initiatives such as updating OCP policies related to rental housing.

Stakeholder Coordination: Engage with City departments, community groups, area residents, developers, and external agencies to gather input and lead cross-functional teams.

Collaboration: Work with other City departments to advance housing developments on City lands.

Innovative Solutions: Provide balanced, creative solutions based on sound planning principles and urban design objectives.

Consultant Management: Prepare and administer consultant work programs.

You have a Master’s Degree in Community Planning or a related field such as Architecture, Urban Design, or Landscape Architecture, and a minimum of 5 years of professional planning experience. Your expertise in sustainability, environmental management, and urban land economics is an added advantage. You are eligible for membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP), Planning Institute of BC, or the Architectural Institute of BC, and hold a valid Class 5 Driver’s Licence for the Province of British Columbia.

You possess deep knowledge of planning principles and practices, with a solid grasp of British Columbia’s legislative framework for land use planning. Your exceptional organizational and time management skills enable you to juggle multiple high-priority projects effectively. You excel in both verbal and written communication, capable of representing the City in public consultations with confidence and clarity. Your experience in a municipal setting further strengthens your ability to navigate complex planning scenarios. Additionally, you are proficient with Windows-based applications, electronic document management systems (REDMS), application tracking software (AMANDA), and GIS, ensuring you can handle the technical aspects of the role with ease.

This position will remain open until filled.

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