Principal Planner

Principal Planner

Position Type:
Temporary Full Time (approximately 12 months)

Number of Positions:
One (1)

Existing or New Vacancy:
Existing – Backfill

Department:
Engineering and Development Services Department

File Number: SV25-137

Location:

City Hall (169 Front Street, Belleville, ON)

Hours:

35 Hours per Week;
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm

Employee Group:
Union - CUPE

Salary: $83,128.45 – $98,961.48 per year (2026 rates)

Closing Date:
Friday, January 9, 2026 at 4:30 PM

As a member of the Engineering and Development Services Department, reporting to the Manager of Policy Planning, the Principal Planner is responsible for analyzing complex planning policies, managing special studies and long-range projects, and preparing reports for Council and related Committees. The role also involves supporting the City’s Community Improvement Plan, engaging with key stakeholders, providing strategic planning advice, and assisting with development applications as needed.

• Provide professional advice and strategic input to management and Council.
• Develop planning strategies that balance growth, economic development, community well-being, and environmental sustainability.
• Manage complex, multi‑disciplinary projects and studies such as Official Plan reviews, corridor studies, and other long‑range plans.
• Lead a variety of the City’s Community Improvement Plans, which include areas such as housing, brownfields, and downtown revitalization.
• Build and maintain relationships with provincial ministries, Indigenous communities, neighbouring municipalities, and the development industry stakeholders.
• Support corporate initiatives that involve research, policy development, and changes to business practices or service delivery.
• Prepare and deliver presentations and participate in discussions with staff, agencies, developers, and elected officials.
• Assist staff of the Approvals Section in processing development applications for zoning amendments, site plans, subdivision and condominiums, consents and minor variances when required.
• Implement the Council‑approved planning decisions and initiatives.
• Act as the Manager, if required.

Note: the above duties and responsibilities are not to be construed as all-inclusive.

• Undergraduate Degree or higher in Planning, Geography or a related discipline
• Full membership or eligibility for membership in Canadian Institute of Planners and Ontario Professional Planners Institute with a Registered Professional Planner designation (MCIP, RPP)
• Demonstrated thorough understanding of the Planning Act, and other relevant legislation
• Demonstrated expert knowledge of Official Plans, Provincial Policy Statements, and Provincial Plans
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check (“CRC”) prior to commencing work at the City of Belleville.

• Proven ability to synthesize, evaluate and interpret highly complex planning issues, towards developing clear and concise planning recommendations
• Strong organizational, analytical, policy and data analysis skills
• Demonstrated leadership and project management experience
• Ability to effectively train, direct, mentor and supervise staff
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to respond to public concerns in a professional manner and maintain effective working relationships within the corporation and the broader community
• Negotiation/conflict resolution skills, problem identification and resolution in response to a wide variety of policy and development initiatives within a dynamic, fast‑paced, multi‑stakeholder environment
• Demonstrated proficiency with a variety of software applications
• The ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Ability to facilitate discussion and exercise judgment in a rational and informed manner appropriate to the situation with awareness of consequences.

• Four (4) years of experience required.

• Four (4) years of experience within municipal environments.
• Two (2) years supervisory experience.
• Experience at Local Planning Appeal Tribunal/Ontario Municipal Board.

Note:…