Manager, Planning

Job description

The Manager, Transmission provides support to the rest of the Planning Services team and Municipal Administration. Hydro One has received an Order-In-Council from the Ministry of Energy to meet the forecasted rapid electricity demand growth in Southwestern Ontario. As a result, the Ministry of Energy has recommended that Hydro One build three priority electricity transmission projects and commence the early development of one additional project within the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and neighbouring municipalities. The Municipality understands that critical new infrastructure is needed to meet the growing demand for power in Southwestern Ontario, and so is willing to work with Hydro One in support of the projects and to mitigate the potential impacts that the projects may have on lands within the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. The projects will require multiple years of consultation and construction. This position is responsible for providing project management, professional planning advice, guidance, and leadership to the community, the municipal organization, and Council on the development of these projects. Specifically, the position will be responsible for coordinating all project-related matters, marshalling municipal approvals in a timely manner, and acting as the Municipality’s primary point of contact for Hydro One.

Essential responsibilities

Demonstrate Chatham-Kent’s core values and competencies

Work closely with Hydro One and other impacted stakeholders through the various environmental assessment processes to determine the most appropriate routing for the transmission projects and to examine options and, to the extent possible, minimize impacts on the community.

Work with Hydro One to advocate for, an integrated approach to planning and building transmission infrastructure in the province to allow for prioritization of work, more transparency during the environmental assessment process, strategic community partnerships, and visibility to the benefits of expanding transmission in the province.

Liaise and consult with community leaders, landowners and other stakeholders to review community benefits and transmission project route options and preferences.

Attend Hydro One’s Transmission Technical Advisory Committee meetings and community consultation events.

Support transmission-related community events in Essex and Elgin counties by, whenever practical, attending meetings with administrators, local landowners and Council members to present transmission project concepts.

Provide continued support to Hydro One during the Ontario Energy Board processes.

Provide support during the permitting and construction phases of the transmission projects, including working with other Municipal Departments to ensure permits and approvals are secured in a timely manner.

Prepare and present reports for Council and committees

Attend Council, committee, public, and other meetings as required.

Provide information, interpretation, advice, and opinion regarding transmission planning to Hydro One, internal departments, external agencies, and Council, and facilitate the resolution of issues arising during the planning process that require in-depth attention.

Maintain positive working relationships with the public, clients, council, community groups, and other levels of government

Essential qualifications

Related college diploma or university degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies and/or related field plus two to four years of related experience; or equivalent combination of related education and experience

Planning Project Management experience in environmental assessment processes.

A clear understanding of the Provincial Policy Statement, the Environmental Protection Act, the Environmental Assessment Act, the Planning Act and other relevant Provincial and Federal regulations and guidelines.

Experience with the Ontario Energy Board or other hearing tribunals

Strong organizational and time management and leadership skills

Other qualifications

A sound understanding of electricity planning in Ontario
Supervisory experience an asset

Certifications, memberships, licenses

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification an asset

Member in good standing with the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) an asset

Membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners an asset

Work environment/hours of work

This position works mostly indoors
This position works weekdays with occasional evening and weekend hours

COVID-19 Vaccination

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent no longer requires a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment. Although it is not mandatory to be vaccinated, it is highly encouraged.

Driver’s license/vehicle requirements

Background check requirements

Essential physical and/or safety requirements

**Sitting**: constant sitting in a chair (using a computer, desk work, etc.; occasionally