Conservation Planner

Job Summary:
The Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) is a watershed-based organization established under the provisions of the Conservation Authorities Act. Since 1958 the HCA has dedicated itself to the management and conservation of watershed lands and water resources for the benefit of people, communities and the environment. HCA undertakes programs on a watershed basis to manage water resources, protect people and property from natural hazards, monitor and conserve the natural environment, and provide recreational and educational opportunities.

Reporting to the Manager, Watershed Planning, Stewardship & Ecological Services, the Conservation Planner supports the achievement of HCA’s strategic goals and objectives related to water resources and natural hazard management, natural heritage conservation, and sustainable land use planning and development.

Other duties include;
- Responsible for supporting the administration of the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s (HCA) Regulation of Development, Interference with Wetlands, and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses (Ontario Regulation 161/06)
- Assists with the review of development proposals submitted under the Planning Act, Environmental Assessment Act, and Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act.
- Works closely with other Watershed Management Services Division staff in carrying out their duties, and provides advice and expertise to support other HCA program areas and projects as required.

Qualifications:

- Education and experience you will need to have:
A university degree or college diploma in natural resources management, environmental studies, planning, geography or related field with a minimum of three (3) three years related work experience
- Knowledge of the Provincial Offences Act, and legal procedures related to the collection of evidence and regulatory enforcement is required, and completion of Conservation Authority Provincial Offences Officer Level 1 training or equivalent enforcement training is considered an asset
- Understanding of principles and approaches related to land use planning, natural resources management, ecology, environmental impact assessment, hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, stormwater management and erosion and sediment control
- Experience reviewing and interpreting technical plans and engineering drawings (i.e. site plans, grading and drainage plans, construction drawings, etc.)
- Possess a valid Ontario driver’s license

And even better if you have:

- Excellent written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Positive team player capable of self-directed, independent work
- Strong time management skills and ability to balance multiple files and priorities
- Ability to work outdoors to conduct site investigations in variable terrain and weather conditions
- Proficient with the use of Microsoft Office software suite including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and experience working with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Working Conditions:
The position is located in the Hamilton Conservation Authority main office at 838 Mineral Springs Road, Ancaster, Ontario. HCA offers alternative work arrangements as outlined in our Employee Handbook.

Salary Range:

- The 2023 salary range for this position starts at $70,539.59.

Progression through the pay range band will be based on merit and is considered on an annual basis. Yearly cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) may also be considered. This position is currently going through a compensation review.

**Benefits**:
HCA offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision care, health care spending account, life and disability insurance after the 3-month probation period and a defined contribution pension plan after 1 year of service.

Application Process:
We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Accessibility accommodations are available for all parts of the recruitment process; applicants are asked to inform Human Resources for any disability required accommodations in advance.