Planning & Development Officer

Role Overview

Reporting to the Director of Community & Protective Services, the Planning & Development Officer is responsible for:

• Reviewing and making decisions on development permit applications
• Providing interpretations and advice on Land Use Bylaw (LUB) regulations
• Administering Athabasca County’s Land Use Bylaw
• Offering planning and development expertise to stakeholders
• Assisting with daily operations and initiatives

Key Responsibilities

1. Provide development-related information and expertise to departments, ratepayers, developers, contractors, architects, the public, and other municipalities
2. Accept, assess, and process applications for development, subdivision, compliance, information requests, and bylaw amendments
3. Participate in the development and revision of planning legislation (e.g., LUB, Municipal Development Plan, Inter-Municipal Development Plans)
4. Investigate complaints and follow up appropriately
5. Issue compliance orders under the LUB and Municipal Government Act
6. Present to the Municipal Planning Commission, Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, LPRT, and Council
7. Participate in open houses and public engagements related to land development and plan amendments
8. Follow records retention policies and ensure proper documentation
9. Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

• Post-secondary education in Land Use Planning or related discipline
• Minimum 1-year experience in a municipal government framework
• Knowledge of rural community planning and County operations
• Understanding of government legislation (e.g., MGA, LUB, Municipal Development Plan)
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to maintain positive public relations
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant software
• Equivalencies in education and experience may be considered
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license

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