Development Officer

Athabasca County is currently seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Development Officer to join our Planning & Development team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking municipality that values innovation, rural community growth, and public service.

Reporting to the Director of Community & Protective Services, the Development Officer is responsible for managing the planning and development functions in the County. This includes processing development applications, administering the Land Use Bylaw, and providing expert planning advice to internal departments, external stakeholders, and the public.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Provide information and expertise related to development to other departments, ratepayers, developers, contractors, architects, the general public, and other municipalities.
2. Accepting, assessing, and processing applications for development, subdivision, compliance, information requests and bylaw amendments.
3. Participate in the development and revision of planning legislation including Land Use Bylaw, Municipal Development Plan, Inter-Municipal Development Plans, as well as other plans and planning studies.
4. Assess and investigate complaints received and follow up appropriately.
5. Issue orders of compliance pursuant to the Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Government Act under the direction of the Director of Community & Protective Services.
6. Attend and deliver presentations to the Municipal Planning Commission, Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, LPRT, and Council as required.
7. Attend and participate in open houses and public engagements for the purpose of land development and plan amendments.
8. Be familiar with the records retention policy and procedures; ensure all information is properly marked, organized, and maintained accordingly.
9. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Post-secondary education in Land Use Planning or related discipline.
• Minimum 1-year related experience working within a municipal government framework.
• Familiar with County structure and operations with a knowledge of rural community planning.
• Working knowledge of the practices and principles of government legislation, including the Municipal Government Act, the Land Use Bylaw, Municipal Development Plan, and other legislation.
• Excellent organizational, planning and time management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills that allow for clear communication of complex matters.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain positive public relations with ratepayers and developers.
• Ability to maintain a high standard of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant software programs.
• Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license.