Who are we?
Credit Valley Conservation is one of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities dedicated to protecting, restoring and enhancing our local natural environment. We care for the Credit River, its streams and tributaries from the headwaters in Orangeville to the shores of Lake Ontario in Mississauga. We are scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, environmentalists, stewards, planners, foresters, recreation experts and much more. We create connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. We’re leaders and explorers. We are professional and we’re inspired. We know our stuff, and we work every day to make a difference.
Who are you?
You want to be part of an organization with an environmental goal. You get up every day and go to work with purpose. You accept that you may not change the world, but you’ll try to make an impact in your corner. You like to partner with skilled people across many professions. It’s as natural for you think about the outdoors as it is to think out of the box. You’re passionate, responsible and approachable. You do what’s right, not just what’s easy. You care, and it shows.
Why work for us?
We offer competitive public sector pay. We have a good employee benefits program. We’re members of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) pension fund. We have flexible work hours for many positions. We find time to have fun and celebrate successes. You’ll have free access to our parks and discounts on recreational equipment rentals. You’ll know your co-workers by name and will make fast friends. You’ll like being at work.
Summary of Functions
Reporting to the Senior Manager, Infrastructure and Regulations, while providing excellent customer and client service this position is responsible for analyzing and coordinating the review of applications made pursuant to Ontario Regulation 160/06 based on policy and program interests, including non-compliance and court processes, and related program activities.
Eligibility Requirements
Education
- University degree in Geography, Planning, Environmental Science, Engineering, Enforcement or a related field
- Eligible for Candidate or full membership with the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) would be an asset
Experience
- 5 years of experience related to the major tasks
- Provincial Offences Officer Training would be an asset
Knowledge, Skills and Ability
- Strong working knowledge of the Conservation Authorities Act and Regulation, the Planning Act, and the Environmental Assessment Act
- Demonstrated experience with Provincial Offences court processes including preparation of briefs, exhibits, and giving evidence
- Strong working knowledge and experience reading and interpreting construction plans and drawings
- Working knowledge of other related provincial and federal environmental legislation and protocols
- Experience reviewing Environmental Assessment studies, including associated technical reports and drawings
- Experience conducting small and large-scale construction site inspections
- Demonstrated ability in providing solution-oriented approach using advanced critical thinking, creativity, problem solving, facilitation and communication skills when coordinating and evaluating development related applications
- Excellent teamwork and customer service skills, including the ability to work respectfully and inclusively with diverse stakeholders
- Able to work in a collaborative work environment with a passion for sharing knowledge and ideas with others
- Demonstrated excellence in written and verbal communication skills with an emphasis on customer service to explain rules and procedures clearly to all stakeholders
- Standard First Aid and CPR is an asset
Summary of Major Tasks
Regulatory Review
- Review applications of varying scales (generally moderate to complex) pursuant to O. Reg. 160/06 and provide comments based on CVC policy and program interests, internal technical review and guidelines related to natural hazards and natural heritage
- Exercise good judgment and consistent and effective decision making and provide a solutions-oriented approach using ingenuity, creativity and effective communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills when evaluating and coordinating the review of permit applications
- Conduct site visits and inspections for permit applications, pre-consultation, and compliance
- Issue permits pursuant to Ontario Regulation 160/06
- Comment on Planning Applications, as required
Investigation of Violations
- Attend and investigate non-compliance issues, or respond to calls, including site visits and evidence collection
- Discuss non-compliance with Regulation with property owners
- Follow procedures to resolve non-compliance issues or to lay charges
- Prepare for and attend court proceedings including preparation of court documents and giving evidence in court
- Follow-up with court orders, as required
Agency Coordination and Public Inquiries
- Provide expert advice and support to internal staff and external agencies on aspects of their programs and initiatives that may affect regulatory matters
- Provide information and advice to watershed residents, general public and prospective property purchasers regarding various CVC policies and programs affecting land use and regulatory controls
- Provide pre-consultation services to the public and partner agencies regarding CVC’s Regulatory functions
- Liaise with municipal partners to seek opportunities for increased efficiencies and co-ordination in enforcement/compliance areas of interest
Prepare and Present to CVC Hearing Board
- Prepare staff reports on request of applications to appeal staff recommendation to CVC Board of Directors
- Prepare for and attend the Board of Directors hearings and answer any questions Board members may have
- Prepare for and attend tribunals for Board refusal decisions including preparation of materials and giving evidence