Urban Planner (Intermediate/Senior)

Company overview

[siv-ik] planning & design inc. is an urban planning and design studio located in London, Ontario. The firm focuses on moving city-building work from early ideas through to delivery, and it supports private-sector clients on land development and master planning assignments across Southwestern Ontario.

The studio’s philosophy is that strong design supports strong business outcomes. That mindset shapes how the team works with developers and municipalities, using visual communication and graphic design to simplify complex urban development topics.

Role summary

The company is looking for an experienced Urban Planner to join its expanding London team. This position is suited to an Intermediate or Senior planner who can contribute to a wide mix of development files across Southwestern Ontario.

In this role, you will work alongside the firm’s partners to provide planning strategy, guide project teams, and help deliver thoughtful urban planning and design outcomes. You will be responsible for steering projects through the full approvals pathway, including due diligence, entitlement strategy, stakeholder engagement, and implementation.

You will also act as a dependable advisor to clients, coordinate with municipal representatives and consultant teams, and support the development of junior staff while helping the business continue to grow.

This opportunity is best suited to someone who enjoys a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting and is motivated by the chance to shape high-quality places through planning.

Core responsibilities

• Direct a variety of land development and community planning assignments from early investigation through approvals and execution.
• Advise clients on development potential, planning policies, approval pathways, and associated risks.
• Carry out, and oversee as needed, planning research, site review, policy analysis, and due diligence work to inform recommendations.
• Draft, assess, and manage the preparation of planning reports, urban design briefs, planning rationale materials, consultation documents, background notes, and similar project communications.
• Coordinate work among multiple consultants and ensure submissions are accurate, timely, and of high quality.
• Develop and sustain productive relationships with clients, municipal contacts, agencies, and local stakeholders.
• Speak on behalf of clients at public hearings, open houses, committee sessions, council meetings, and other engagement forums.
• Create project timelines, track progress, and look for ways to improve delivery efficiency.
• Keep up with planning policy, legislative, and regulatory developments and identify opportunities to apply them to client and community benefit.
• Assist with business development through proposals, networking, relationship-building, and pursuit of new work.
• Take part in special assignments and strategic initiatives that support the firm’s expansion and long-term success.

What the employer is looking for

The ideal candidate brings a genuine interest in planning and urban design for growing mid-sized communities, along with a desire to contribute positively to the profession and the places the firm serves.

You should be comfortable working collaboratively, communicating confidently in person, by phone, and in writing, and taking responsibility for delivering polished work. Strong writing ability is important, especially when translating complex planning ideas into clear messages for different audiences.

Experience with Adobe Creative Suite tools such as InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop is expected, and familiarity with SketchUp or similar 3D modelling software is a strong advantage. A proactive, inquisitive, and entrepreneurial attitude is also valued.

Qualifications and experience

Applicants should hold a degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Urban Design, or a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution.

The role calls for 5 to 10 years of increasingly responsible planning experience, ideally gained in a consulting environment.

Candidates must either hold full membership with the Registered Professional Planners Institute of Ontario (RPP) and the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP), or be eligible to earn that designation within a reasonable period.

You should also have practical experience with development applications and Ontario municipal approvals, plus a solid working understanding of the Planning Act, the Provincial Planning Statement, official plans, zoning by-laws, and related legislation and policy.

Strong communication skills, the ability to manage several projects at once, experience working with consultant teams, and healthy working relationships with clients, municipal staff, and other stakeholders are all essential.

A valid Ontario driver’s licence and access to a vehicle are required for occasional travel throughout Southwestern Ontario.

Compensation and benefits

The salary range for this role is $85,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

Additional benefits include a corporate health and wellness spending account, employer coverage of professional membership dues, funding support for professional development such as conferences, study trips, continuing education, and training, as well as performance-based bonuses.

The position also offers room for growth and leadership in a dynamic, entrepreneurial workplace.

Work arrangement

This is a full-time, permanent role based in the company’s London, Ontario office.

A hybrid schedule may be introduced after the initial onboarding period.

Regular workdays are Monday through Friday, with flexibility needed for occasional evening public meetings and community engagement events.

Some travel across Southwestern Ontario will be required from time to time.

Application process and workplace commitment

To apply, candidates should submit a résumé and a short cover letter describing their background and interest in the role.

The employer values inclusive hiring and accessible workplaces, welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, and will provide accommodations during the recruitment process upon request.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.