Supervisor of Subwatershed Planning

Who we are

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Our team is made up of committed and passionate experts in their fields, including scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. Every day, we come to work to improve the health of the natural environment of the Grand River watershed for those who call it home or come to visit. We are a progressive team, dedicated to lifelong learning, collaboration and making a positive impact.

Who you are

You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You want the work you do to make a difference. You like a team environment where everyone has an opportunity to contribute to achieve a shared goal, no matter their background or level of education and experience. You like problem solving, expanding your horizons and making even the smallest positive impact for your community and the planet.

Why work for us

At the GRCA, we don’t just talk about work-life balance, we promote and encourage it. We offer flexible work hours, one day a week working from home, and wellness initiatives like onsite yoga and an Employee Assistance Program. Our team feels a connection to their work, each other and the community we serve, and when you’re “at the office”, you won’t feel like you’re “at the office.” Our Administration Centre is located in a tucked away, natural oasis next to the Shade’s Mills reservoir, where a walk or lunch at the picnic tables provides the opportunity to be immersed in nature.

We offer staff development plans and open doors to help advance your career. And our employees benefit from being part of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), with 100% matching contributions from GRCA.

Overview of the Opportunity

The Supervisor of Subwatershed Planning reports to the Manager of Planning and Regulations Services and is responsible for developing and coordinating the Authority's subwatershed planning program and project management of assigned projects. Duties will include acting as the project manager for new subwatershed plans, coordinating the implementation and update of existing plans and coordinating monitoring associated with the subwatershed program. This position also manages / coordinates assigned projects for the department and related natural hazard management programs.

What You’ll Do
- Coordinate and develop the overall subwatershed planning program, including establishing subwatershed planning priorities in the Grand River Watershed.
- Administer/supervise the subwatershed planning program, including staff and budgets required to support it and manage all associated information. Ensure employees comply with all applicable policies, procedures and legislation with special emphasis on health and safety and hazard mitigation measures.
- Act as project manager to carry out subwatershed plans. This will include coordinating activities of the projects’ steering committees and working with senior GRCA staff to allocate internal resources to the program, administering a monitoring program to support the subwatershed plans, procurement of external resources, management of contracted services, data management, report writing and reporting to management, GRCA Board, and municipal Council meetings.
- Act as a project team member representing the GRCA on subwatershed plans undertaken by others (i.e., municipalities, developers, provincial agencies).
- Work with external stakeholders and GRCA program technical staff to ensure the effective implementation of completed subwatershed plans. This activity will include the development of budgets and plans for resource allocation.
- Work in co-operation with Supervisors of Planning and Regulations and act as a technical resource and assist the department and others including Engineering, Water Resources, and Conservation Lands to ensure effective subwatershed plan implementation and work to ensure subwatershed planning activities are integrated with other GRCA policies, programs and activities.
- Act as a GRCA expert witness on matters associated with the subwatershed planning program before the Ontario Land Tribunal.
- Participate in various programs to promote public awareness of subwatershed planning.
- Act as project manager leading technical projects across a range of technical specialties to support the department and other programs including natural hazard management, coordinating internal staff and external contractors as necessary. Serve as the GRCA’s representative with other government agencies and in associated public relations.
- Develop and maintain good working relations with external agencies, municipal staff and key stakeholders.
- Perform other related duties as required.
- Act as a water management Duty Officer.

Education
- Degree in Geogra