Lead, Permitting

Responsibilities

PRIMARY PURPOSE

The Lead, Permitting is responsible for proactively managing permits for Trans Link projects including being the primary contact on behalf of Trans Link for all permit-related matters to municipalities and/or agencies within Lower Mainland. This role focuses on taking a lead role in managing the submissions and approval timelines of permits across multiple projects in Trans Link portfolio, anticipating regulatory issues, managing multidisciplinary consultant inputs, and maintaining productive working relationships with municipal/agency reviewers with the ultimate goal of expediting permit approvals.

The successful candidate will manage the entire permitting lifecycle, from early due diligence of the required permits through permit issuance; ensuring applications are complete, strategic, and aligned with external expectations. The successful candidate will provide technical expertise and advanced knowledge of building code/permitting process to work with project directors and project managers for complete and accurate permit related submissions.

• Manage a high volume of building permit applications from pre-submission through issuance across multiple Metro Vancouver municipalities
• Coordinate and align submissions from architects, engineers, and specialty consultants to ensure consistency, completeness, and permit-readiness
• Identify and resolve potential regulatory, zoning, and technical issues early to prevent review delays
• Serve as the primary point of contact with municipal staff, utility companies, and other transportation agencies, responding to review comments and facilitating timely resolution
• Organize and participate in pre-application meetings and technical consultations as required
• Track permit timelines, milestones, and risks; provide clear reporting to internal stakeholders
• Advise project teams on permitting strategy, including phased permits, early works, and partial approvals where appropriate
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of municipal processes, submission standards, and evolving regulatory requirements
• Continuously improve internal permitting processes to reduce approval cycle times
• Manages reporting staff, including selection, development, coaching, managing performance, assigning/reviewing work and all other people management practices

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning, Construction Management.

Eligibility for AIBC or P. Eng is required.

5–8 years of progressive experience in building permitting, development approvals, or municipal review.

Demonstrated experience working directly with Metro Vancouver municipalities or comparable jurisdictions.

Proven track record of managing multiple permit applications concurrently and achieving timely approvals.

• Strong understanding of municipal permitting workflows and inter-departmental review processes
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong stakeholder management skills, including experience working with municipal staff and external consultants
• Ability to anticipate issues, assess risk, and implement practical solutions
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of accountability and ownership over outcomes
• Proficient in document management, tracking tools, and digital permitting platforms

• Prior experience working within a municipality or authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)
• Familiarity with regional and external agency approvals (e.g., utilities, health authorities, Metro Vancouver services)
• Other professional designations (e.g., PMP, MCIP, etc.) considered an asset but not required

37.5 hours per week.

Hybrid. This position offers the flexibility of working both on-site and remotely within B.C.

The salary for this position ranges from $91,840 - $137,760 per annum. Actual salary offered will be based on education, experience, skills, and qualifications as they relate to the role.

We aim to provide competitive pay that reflects your professional background…