Job ID #31722: Planner I - Zoning By-law Reform

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

Job ID #31722: Planner I - Zoning By-law Reform

Union: CUPE Local 5167

Job Description ID #: 5344

Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-city by 4:00 p.m. on February 18, 2026. 

Duration: Up to 18 months

Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy

Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Reporting to the Supervisor, Zoning By-law Reform, conduct research for city initiated zoning reviews; formulate zones and zoning by-law regulations for the City’s comprehensive Zoning By-law; implement public engagement programs; prepare and present reports and recommendations; utilize GIS and evaluate data to inform zoning work.

GENERAL DUTIES

Administers the City’s Zoning By-laws.

Researches, collects and compiles data; analyzes and interprets data; formulates conclusions.

Interprets and develops Zoning By-law regulations.

Reviews literature; reports on planning and policy issues.

Interprets legislation and provincial policy such as the Planning Act.

Writes reports such as technical reports and committee reports; composes correspondence.

Receives and answers inquiries from staff, public, other departments, elected officials, municipalities, ministries and outside agencies.

Provides staff support to interdepartmental staff working groups; acts as department representative at meetings.

Liaises with ministries, municipalities, developers and other agencies on planning matters.

Co-ordinates public engagement programs; participates in public information meetings, stakeholder meeting, neighbourhood meeting.

Researches methodologies and terms of reference for projects.

Inputs, manipulates and retrieves data.

Conducts site inspections; takes notes and photographs.

Prepares and implements strategic plans.

Composes correspondence such as briefs and policy statements for senior staff.

Reviews and interprets reports from other departments, municipalities, agencies, consultants, and Provincial ministries.

Prepares and present evidence at Ontario Land Tribunal Hearings.

Directs students; recommends hiring of students.

Performs other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

Works in accordance with the provisions of all applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.

 QUALIFICATIONS

Degree in  Land Use Planning or a directly related field with a minimum of two years of planning experience, including zoning by-law preparation, review and implementation, or in a relevant area of land use planning.

Must be a full member or candidate member with the Canadian Institute of Planners or equivalent.

Knowledge of Official Plan policy development and Zoning By-law preparation.

Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Ability to manage short and longer term project work.

A high level of skill in research, problem solving, verbal and written communications, and interpersonal relations.

Excellent analytical abilities with a thorough knowledge of analytical research methodologies.

Experience implementing public engagement programs.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship.  If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.