Senior Planner

The Opportunity

McElhanney's Planning practice in Alberta is seeking a Senior Planner to join its team. Supporting vibrant, livable communities is a key focus for McElhanney across Western Canada, and our Planning teams play an active role in laying the groundwork for complex, interdisciplinary projects that help shape the way we live. This is a full-time, permanent position, and the successful candidate may be based anywhere in Alberta.

The successful individual will contribute to a diverse range of land development and municipal policy initiatives. Our Planning work extends into other jurisdictions in Eastern British Columbia and Saskatchewan. We are looking for a collaborative and entrepreneurial professional who is passionate about community building and navigating development approval processes to deliver successful outcomes for clients.

What You’ll Do

• Support and help build the planning practice in Alberta, while coordinating with planning teams in other branches to ensure excellent project delivery.
• Lead business development efforts with new, existing, and key clients.
• Liaise with clients, project stakeholders, various levels of government, and sub-consultants, while developing strategic partnerships.
• Manage projects involving community planning, policy analysis, and land use studies.
• Manage the approval process for subdivision, development, and land use bylaw applications.
• Provide interim leadership to the Alberta Planning team for a defined term, including staff mentorship, workload coordination, and project oversight.
• Mentor and develop junior and intermediate planning staff through technical guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities.

What You’ll Bring 

• 10+ years of community and land use planning experience; public and private sector experience is an asset.
• Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience in land development approval and municipal planning processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of delivering practical, innovative solutions.
• Knowledge of provincial planning legislation, and a willingness to learn surrounding local government policies and bylaw requirements.
• Technical and policy writing expertise.
• Ability to prepare and execute Public Engagement strategies.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume environment.
• CAD experience and technical ability with ArcView, Adobe Illustrator and other GIS or graphics programs.
• Eligibility for membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners.
• Valid driver’s license required

In addition to the Senior Planner role, there is a temporary opportunity for the successful candidate to serve as Team Lead during a maternity leave coverage period.

What Can We Offer You?

The salary range for this position is $115,000 - $135,000 per annum. McElhanney offers fair compensation that is commensurate with the individual’s education, experience, skills, and professional qualifications. The posted base salary/wage range is representative of the required level of qualifications and experience for the position as noted in the job posting. The salary offered will be based on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

• Work-Life Harmony: Balance your personal and professional commitments. Flexible hours to fit your lifestyle.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Maternity and parental leave top up program, health and dental coverage, RRSP matching, and Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Safe & Inclusive Workplace: A culture of respect and inclusion for all.
• Compensation: Attractive total compensation package including a generous bonus plan and share ownership potential.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for dues, educational assistance, mentorship program, workshops, and committee involvement.
• Career Progression: Support and mentorship to shape a career path that fits your goals.
• Relocation Support: Financial assistance if applicable.

This role is designated as a safety sensitive position.