Opportunity

Covering a maternity leave from May 2026 - January 2027 with the possibility of extension, the Planning Technician is responsible for responding to planning inquiries, technical review of development applications, providing mapping and GIS support, preparing correspondence and public notices to ensure that all requirements and regulations of the Planning Act are met, and providing clerical support services, as required.

Summary of Responsibilities: 

• Provides consultation and technical planning advice to the public through a complete knowledge of the Planning Act, the Muskoka Official Plan, the Township Official Plan and Zoning By-law, and other related planning legislation, regulations, policies, and implementation mechanisms.

• Serve as a primary contact within the department of Development Services and Environmental Sustainability to provide effective customer service by answering general planning inquiries.

• Reviews, analyzes and processes various development applications (i.e.: Site Plan Control Applications) to ensure completeness and to meet requirements under the Planning Act, as required.

• Reviews, analyzes and processes Residential Site Plan applications and manages associated security returns.

• Prepares various pieces of correspondence and communications on behalf of the Development Services and Environmental Sustainability Department.

• Prepares and submits background information packages and acts as a liaison with the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, as required.

• Acts as the primary municipal contact for GIS services, and updates and maintains the Township GIS mapping system in conjunction with the District of Muskoka.

• Provides mapping support for all Township departments including preparing mapping for planning circulations and presentations, staff reports and special projects.

• Assists in development related studies and special projects.

• Assists in follow up compliance and enforcement procedures for various planning documents.

• Assists in the review of Ontario Building Code Applications for compliance with the Zoning By-law.

• Provides various support services to Planning Services staff in their absence.

• Related duties as assigned.

Qualifications And Experience

• Planning Technician, Planning and/or GIS Diploma.

• 3-5 years technical planning administration experience, including GIS experience.

• Thorough knowledge of Ontario’s planning framework, the Planning and Municipal Acts, as well as the Ontario Building Code.

• Excellent analytical, interpersonal, administrative, organizational, communication, and time management skills, including an ability to handle a number of ongoing projects at one time.

• Computer skills including the Microsoft Office suite of products, GIS software, and a good understanding of databases, tracking systems and the internet

• Valid Ontario drivers licenses.

• Working in the lake and on the beach/dock, instruct and evaluate swimming students using the Red Cross and Lifesaving Society standards.
• Maintain the schedule for each class, while providing time to answer student or parent questions as needed.
• Submit completed report cards, skill sheets and attendance information within the pre-established time lines.
• Act as first responder to emergencies and provide first aid treatment until EMS arrives.
• Provide information to the public on programs, events and water safety information.
• Provide daily maintenance and clean-up of beach and park area, monitor washrooms to ensure proper conduct and discourage acts of vandalism.
• Ensure that docks and buoy lines are secure and inform Lead Swim Instructor immediately if they become unsecured.
• Participate in staff training sessions throughout the season

Summary of Desired Qualifications:

• Lifesaving Society Swim Instructor
• Lifesaving Society Lifesaving Instructor
• Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard Service (NLS) Pool Option, Waterfront Option an asset
• Current Standard First Aid and CPR
• Police Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Screening
• Valid Ontario Driver’s License
• Ability to effectively interact, consult, and communicate with employees and members of public Preference will be given to applicants who are currently registered as full-time students and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year.

Hours of Work & Wages

• Contract from June 24 – August 21
• Normal weekly hours are approximately 30, Monday to Friday