Assistant Planner (Intern/Co-op)

About Capacity Urban

Capacity Urban is a boutique urban planning and development consulting firm headquartered in beautiful Haliburton, Ontario, with a practice that spans the entire province. Small by design, we limit the number of projects and clients we take on at any given time so that every file receives focused attention and every client stays informed. That model only works when the team behind it is exceptional.

We serve municipal, private sector (developers/property owners/other consulting firms), and not for profit clients on a wide range of files across urban, suburban, and rural contexts. We pride ourselves on practical, well researched advice that respects both the regulatory framework and the character of each community we work in. Learn more at www.capacityurban.com.

The Opportunity

As a Planning Assistant at Capacity Urban, you will support active planning and development files from intake through approval. This is a hands-on, ownership-oriented role in a small firm environment, which means your contributions are visible and your growth is real.

You will support our team on a varied caseload that ranges from rural and shoreline files in Central and Eastern Ontario to urban and suburban work in the GTA and in other parts of Ontario. You will be expected to manage your work with precision, communicate proactively, and represent the firm professionally in every interaction.

What You Will Own (Key Responsibilities)
•     Support the review and processing of planning applications including Official Plan and Zoning Amendments, Site Plan Approvals, Minor Variances, Consents, and Draft Plans for completeness and regulatory compliance

•     Prepare technical reports, due diligence, planning justification support materials, staff memos, and client correspondence

•     Research and interpret provincial policy, official plans, by-laws, and other relevant legislation including the Planning Act, Provincial Planning Statement, and applicable conservation authority requirements

•     Support due diligence and feasibility analysis for development projects

•     Conduct site visits as required to support file assessment and reporting

•     Maintain organized project files/records, track application timelines, and assist with circulation and public notice requirements

•     Attend pre-consultation meetings, public meetings, and Committee of Adjustment hearings as a support resource to senior staff

•     Contribute to general office and project administration as needed

What Great Looks Like

In a boutique firm, every team member’s performance directly shapes the client experience. A great hire in this role keeps files current without being asked, anticipates what the next step requires, and communicates with clients and agencies before issues escalate.

Who You Are
•     You are a recent graduate or a student actively working toward a degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, Urban Studies or a related field. An accredited degree, recognized by the Professional Standards Board is an asset.

•     You have a working knowledge of Ontario’s planning and land development approvals process, including the Planning Act and applicable provincial policy

•     You are meticulous. Errors in reports, applications, and correspondence bother you and you take steps to prevent them

•     You can communicate clearly and professionally in writing and in conversation, including with clients who may be navigating complex or unfamiliar processes

•     You can manage your workload with autonomy and flag issues early rather than letting them compound

•     You will be comfortable working across a range of file types and client types, adapting your approach to each context

•     You have a valid Ontario G class driver licence and access to a reliable vehicle, with willingness to travel for site visits across the province

•     GIS proficiency and familiarity with municipal development approvals are assets

•     Membership in or eligibility for CIP and OPPI is considered an asset

•     Previous exposure to a mix of urban, suburban, and rural planning issues, including shoreline and environmental files; or work in a consulting environment, is considered an asset

Our Values

Capacity Urban is built on a set of commitments that shape how we work and who we hire. We expect every member of our team to bring these to their work every day.

•       Client accountability: We are a small firm and our clients choose to work with us because they trust us to follow through. Every team member is accountable to the clients we serve and to each other.

•       Focused attention: We do not spread ourselves thin. We take on the work we can do well and we do it with full commitment. We expect the same focused approach from every person on our team.

•       Proven expertise: We stay current on industry best practices, provincial policy, and legislative changes. We invest in continuous learning because the quality of our advice depends on it.

•       Results orientation: We are here to reduce timelines, cut through red tape, and achieve the best possible outcomes for clients and communities. We measure our success by what we actually deliver.

•       Commitment to the profession: We care about planning and about planners. We mentor, we grow, and we contribute to a profession that shapes how communities are built and how people live.

What We Offer
•     A diverse, province-wide caseload that exposes you to the full lifecycle of planning applications and different types of planning and related projects in urban, suburban, and rural settings.

•     A hybrid schedule that balances collaborative office time, focused remote work, and meaningful field experience across the Province.

•     A flexible, collegial work environment in one of Ontario’s most beautiful regions, with four season recreation at your doorstep.

•     Intentional mentorship and support for professional memberships and professional development.

•     Clear opportunities to transition into a permenant role and for advancement as the firm continues to grow.

How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter and resume in a single PDF to the email address below. Use the subject line: Assistant Planner (Intern/Co-op) Application, Your Name. If you are currently studying, your cover letter should clearly indicate your availability to work (# of hours per week/days of the week). Some in-person office work/collaboration will be required so candidates must be able to reliably commute or relocate to Haliburton, Ontario.

Email:  kristy@capacityurban.com

Website:  www.capacityurban.com

Application Deadline: Open until filled.