Senior Planner (Planner 3)

About Us

The Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing is dedicated to working with municipalities to build healthy, vibrant, and safe communities throughout Nova Scotia. The Department provides programs, grants, and funding opportunities for municipalities and community groups. The Department also provides services and guidance to municipalities in many areas including land use planning, budget planning and finance, infrastructure development, policy and program development.

The Department is also responsible for ensuring the availability of safe, suitable, and affordable housing for all Nova Scotians. Our work involves making strategic investments, leveraging new funding, and building on critical partnerships to help further position ourselves to meet current and future housing challenges.

About Our Opportunity

As a Senior Planner, you have an important role in shaping policies and providing expert guidance on a wide range of complex and sensitive issues, from municipal land use planning and provincial policy to heritage property protection. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape sustainable development and community growth while collaborating with government officials, municipalities, and community stakeholders to support sustainable growth and preserve the province's unique character.

Primary Accountabilities

As the Senior Planner, you will lead and provide expert advice on land use policy and municipal planning across Nova Scotia. A few key responsibilities will include:

• Developing and implementing provincial priorities regarding land use including Statements of Provincial Interest,
• Advising municipalities and consulting with planning officials on municipal planning documents and concerns.
• Conducting official reviews of municipal planning documents, for alignment with provincial legislation/regulations, and making recommendations to senior officials.
• Representing the department on committees and interdepartmental projects
• Leading research on demographic trends, jurisdictional scans, and community impact to inform provincial strategies.
• Managing educational initiatives on land use planning and supporting municipal staff professional development.
• Preparing briefings, correspondence, and legislative proposals for senior officials.
• Overseeing consulting projects and providing expert advice at meetings and workshops.

Qualifications and Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Planning (or other related field) with at least six (6) years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree in Planning with at least four (4) years of relevant experience is required. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will also be considered.

Eligibility for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) is a strong asset.

You demonstrate: 

• In-depth knowledge of municipal land use planning, particularly Parts 8 and 9 of the Municipal Government Act. 
• Proficiency in relevant computer applications (MS Office Suite)
• An understanding of provincial planning and subdivision regulations
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills to effectively liaise with government officials, municipalities, consultants, and the public.
• Exceptional facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills to build and maintain relationships.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Sound professional judgment, discretion, and the ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues.
• Strategic thinking and solid problem-solving skills to address diverse planning challenges.
• A commitment to integrating equity, diversity, and inclusion into planning practices.

Additional assets include:

• Certifications in project management or conflict resolution
• Familiarity with the Halifax Regional Municipality Charter and the Heritage Property Act is an asset.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools written submissions, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s) and reference checks.

Equivalency

We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to:

• a related 2-year diploma and 8 years of related experience

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Most of your work is spent in a comfortable office environment. Some travel may be necessary in this role to attend site visits as required, as such a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel is necessary. 

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of May 1, 2026.  The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.