Job Description
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority is seeking to fill the position of Planning Technician.
Who are we?
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) is one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities dedicated to protecting, restoring and enhancing our local natural environment. GSCA is a community-based environmental agency which owns and manages 11,734 hectares (28,995 acres) of some of the most scenic and environmentally sensitive lands in Ontario. For over 60 years, GSCA has been offering local renewable natural resource programs and services to its watershed municipalities and landowners. We care for the five major watersheds and several lake fringe watersheds within Grey and Bruce Counties. We are inspired to make a difference and we work to inspire a strong appreciation for nature within our communities.
Who are you?
You are enthusiastic about environmental management and committed to making a difference in your community. You enjoy collaborating in a team environment and working to achieve a shared goal. You take pride in your attention to detail and ability to solve problems.
Why work for us?
GSCA’s Administrative Office is situated on over 200 hectares of natural wilderness, complete with over seven kilometres of hiking trails and one of southern Ontario’s most magnificent waterfalls. We offer competitive public sector pay and the opportunity for enrollment in the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund. Joining GSCA means that you will be part of a small, closely knit team, you will know your co-workers by name, will make fast friends, and will have direct access to the considerable knowledge of these individuals.
Summary of Functions
Reporting directly to the Manager of Environmental Planning, the Planning Technician will be assisting in the day-to-day operations of the Environmental Planning Department. This will include responding to inquiries from a variety of stakeholders, assisting in the review of Planning Act, Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act and Conservation Authority Act applications. The role will also be utilizing GIS mapping platforms, maintaining departmental data, and tracking payments and fees.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
- Graduation from a post-secondary institution in land-use planning, resource management, geography, environmental science, or a similar discipline.
- Valid Class ‘G’ Ontario driver’s license (condition of employment)
- Understanding of watershed management principles
- Understanding of natural hazards policy and implementation guidelines
- Knowledge of the role and mandate of Conservation Authorities and the Conservation Authorities Act
- Ability to read, understand and interpret aerial photos, maps, and development plans.
- Familiarity with the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), air photo interpretation and mapping.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and interpreting policies for understanding of stakeholders.
- Familiarity with relevant legislation, including the Conservation Authorities Act, the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act, the Planning Act and related regulations.
- It is considered an asset to have:
- Certified Planning Technician Credentials
- One (1) year experience in a planning or regulatory environment.
SUMMARY OF MAJOR TASKS
- Support for day-to-day operations of the Environmental Planning Department.
- Provide front-line customer service by responding to inquiries, phone calls, emails and in person walk-ins.
- Respond to requests for information concerning the status of hazard designations and regulated areas on properties.
- Assist in the review of applications submitted under the Planning Act, Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act and Conservation Authorities Act.
- Work with the planning and regulations team in assessing and mapping natural hazards for Official Plan and Zoning By-law updates.
- Assist with invoicing, payments and fee tracking.
- Assist in document management, filing, formatting, website input, data management.
- Other duties and projects as appropriate are listed in the full position description.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position works 35 hours, Monday to Friday at the GSCA Administration Centre with occasional evenings and weekends as required. Please note, our office has relocated temporarily while the Head Office is under renovation. The temporary working location is 901 3rd Avenue East, Suite 215, City of Owen Sound (above the Post Office). Renovations are expected to be completed in May 2026. A full listing of the position requirements and responsibilities is available on Grey Sauble Conservation Authority’s website: https://www.greysauble.on.ca/about-us/employment-opportunities/.
Starting salary: $31.79 hourly
Forward resume by 4:00pm on March 29, 2026 to:
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
237897 Inglis Falls Road
Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N6
Email: jobs@greysauble.on.ca
Both a resume and cover letter are required. Please quote “Planning Technician” on resume and cover letter. Resumes/letters submitted electronically must be submitted in pdf format.
Anticipated Start Date: May 2026
We thank all applicants for their interest. However only those selected for an interview will be
contacted. No phone calls please. Late applications will not be considered.
GSCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians
with Disabilities Act, 2005), GSCA will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment,
selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. If you require disability –
related accommodations, please inform GSCA Administrative staff. All personal information is
collected under the authority of the municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy
Act.
