Junior Planner/Project Administrator

Located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Groundswell is a boutique planning firm comprised of multi-disciplined Professional Planners, Designers and Technicians. With a diverse range of experience and expertise, we provide Land Use Planning consulting services to private sector clients throughout the GTA and Ontario.  We offer:

• Extremely competitive compensation package
• Flexible working environment, including work-from-home arrangements and flexible hours
• Encouragement and support for professional learning and development

The responsibilities associated with this dynamic role will differ based on qualifications and experience, however may include:

• Office and project file management on our Cloud based server, including undertaking regular file management audits and reviews
• Formatting and editing of written documents and reports
• Assist with email optimization, including drafting responses and inbox organization
• Assist with preparation and formatting of meeting agendas, minutes and notes
• Background research and analysis of planning policy and processes
• Assist with a full range of planning applications including Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments, Draft Plans of Subdivisions and Condominiums, Site Plans, Committee of Adjustment (among others)
• Preparation of planning rationale, reports and policy overviews
• Coordination of development applications - including submission packages, coordination of team deliverables, responses to municipal comments
• Work with relevant municipal by-laws, policies and guidelines relevant in the assessment of potential development/redevelopment opportunities
• Undertake land use policy research for development reviews and provide input for highest and best uses
• Assist in coordination of multi-disciplinary project teams
• Assist with preparing presentations and written documents for clients, stakeholders, municipal committees and Councils
• Work collaboratively in a team environment with other Planners and Technicians
• Other duties as assigned

• Bachelors or Graduate Degree in land use planning (Preferred)
• Experience in office and/or project administration (Required)
• Self-motivation, strong analytical ability, and good organization skills
• Confidence and competency with Apple and web-based tech (Google Workspace, PM apps)
• Ability to adapt and respond to regular changes and updates day-to day tasks and projects
• Experience with managing posts on various social media platforms (Preferred)
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills
• Experience in Microsoft Office document formatting and editing
• Experience in policy planning, land development and urban design
• Knowledge of Provincial Planning Policy and the Ontario Planning Act
• Ability to assist projects and teams through complete Municipal approval and Planning Act processes