Job Title

Position title: Planner II Location: Halifax, NS (hybrid) Employment type: Full-time Reports to: Senior Planner/Planning Manager Salary: $85k - $95k Role summary The Planner II provides entry and intermediate-level professional planning support on a range of land-use, development approval, and policy-related projects across municipal jurisdictions. Working under the supervision of a Senior Planner or Planning Manager, the Planner II assists with development applications, planning analysis, report preparation, and client and municipal coordination. This role supports Sightlines ability to deliver timely, accurate, and well-reasoned planning services to clients while meeting municipal requirements and statutory timelines. Key responsibilities Planning Paying close attention to municipal policies, by-laws, and submission standards, carefully assist with the preparation, submission, and tracking of development and planning applications (e.g., rezonings, development agreements, subdivisions, site plans, variances) Conduct thorough background research and detailed policy analysis related to municipal planning strategies, land-use by-laws, secondary plans, and provincial legislation. Carefully draft and format planning justification reports, planning opinions, technical memoranda, and supporting documentation under the direction of a Planning Manager. Support senior planners with committee or council submissions by preparing factual summaries, appendices, and presentation content. Using client-focused communication skills, assist with public consultation and engagement processes, including preparation of presentation materials, meeting summaries, and response matrices. In a timely and safe manner, undertake site visits and context analysis; prepare thorough site notes, photographs, and mapping to support applications and reports. Administration Coordinate timely and thorough circulation of applications and materials with municipal staff, agencies, and project stakeholders; track comments, conditions, and revisions. In a timely manner, ensure receipt of these documents is received. Respond intentionally to routine inquiries from clients, municipal staff, and the public in a professional and timely manner. Maintain organized digital project files, application trackers, and internal databases in accordance with firm information-management practices. Contribute consistently and accurately to project scheduling, time tracking, and workload planning in a consulting environment. Required Qualifications & Experience Must be eligible to work in Canada. Post-secondary degree in Planning, Environmental Studies, or a closely related field. Membership or eligibility for membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) through an accredited planning degree. 3-5 years of professional experience in municipal planning, development review, or planning consulting.Working knowledge of municipal land-use planning frameworks, development approval processes, and applicable provincial planning legislation. Strong written communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, concise planning rationale and correspondence. Proficiency with Microsoft Office; basic GIS skills and experience with electronic submission or plan-review systems. Proficient in project management.Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a client-focused, consulting environment. Valid drivers license and ability to attend site visits and meetings as required. Office-based with hybrid flexibility; occasional evening meetings or site visits may be required depending on project needs. Physical Requirements and Environment Intense visual concentration, including extended periods looking at a computer screen, maps, and text Must be able to work in a shared workspace Assets Familiarity with Halifax Regional Municipality planning policy, land-use by-laws, and approval processes. A Masters degree in Urban Planning or related field. Experience supporting public engagement activities or committee/council-facing materials. Experience with subdivision planning, land development and construction. GIS and site concept planning experience. Secondary language (any). Soft Skills Works well in a team environment and independently Ongoing interest in skill development and upward movementPassionate about communityThrives in a fast-paced environment and when working with deadlinesClient service orientation and professional judgment Role Impact The Planner II strengthens Sightlines capacity to manage routine development approvals and planning analysis efficiently, allowing senior staff to focus on complex files and strategic work. By supporting high-quality submissions, responsive client service, and effective coordination with municipalities, this role contributes directly to timely approvals, strong client relationships, and the firms overall delivery performance. Benefits Medical and dental insurance, parental leave top-up Health and Wellness Spending account RRSP matching 3 weeks vacation plus one week paid Personal time off: paid holidays include the standard 12 statutory plus 10 personal days and additional observed holidays Quarterly team appreciation days Education and conference allowances Application Instructions Please submit a cover letter, rsum, and portfolio or writing sample highlighting relevant planning experience. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. #J-18808-Ljbffr