City of Surrey

PARKS PLANNER 1

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SCOPE

Working in conjunction with parks planning and design staff, this varied and complex work involves managing and preparing strategic plans, policy documents and related work for the planning of Parks, Recreation and Culture areas and amenities.

This is a Regular Full-Time position, with some field work and attendance at public engagement meetings required.   Hours may vary based on project needs.

 EMPLOYMENT STATUS

Union - CUPE Local 402 – Regular Full-Time

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Park Planner I, you will lead, coordinate, and support a variety of complex planning assignments, that could include the PRC 10-year Strategic Plan Update, the Grandview Heights Community Park Plan, and a waterfront park concept plan, among other park planning and design projects. You will:

• Coordinate with staff, stakeholders, and consultants, while ensuring alignment with departmental objectives and broader City strategies
• Review and provide detailed technical comments on complex development applications related to parks, recreation, and culture.
• Prepare and update policy documents, bylaw amendments, and comprehensive planning reports.
• Lead public engagement sessions, focus groups, and stakeholder meetings
• Write requests for proposals, review and manage contracts for various consultants concurrently.
• Lead and/or assist with park planning for new neighbourhood concept plans and smaller park plans.
• Collaborate with park designers and other staff in the Parks Department on the delivery of various park projects.
• Review the work of, and provide mentorship to, junior staff.
• Stay current with emerging planning practices, sustainable design principles, and relevant legislation.

Other skills include:

• Team oriented with an open and collaborative approach to project delivery.
• Proven ability to manage projects independently and collaboratively.
• Strong public engagement and facilitation skills. Comfortable with presenting complex materials to various audiences, individually and in large groups.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with software such as GIS, and other planning/design tools.
• Proven knowledge of relevant urban planning practices, legislation and sustainability principles, as well as park design and the land development approval process. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in planning or in Landscape Architecture plus a minimum of two years relevant experience in parks, recreation and culture planning; or a Degree in Planning or in a related discipline and four years' relevant experience in parks, recreation and culture planning. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• A Valid B.C. Driver's License with a safe driving history.
• Membership in the Planning Institute of British Columbia or British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects is preferred. 

Applicants under consideration will be required to consent to a Police Information Check. Successful candidates will be required to provide proof of qualifications.

Pay Steps

Hourly Rate (2024 Rates)

Step 1 - $55.86, Step 2 (6 months) - $58.40, Step 3 (18 months)- $60.82,

Step 4 (30 months)- $63.35

This Posting Closes on April 13, 2026.

PARKS PLANNER 2

SCOPE

The City is seeking an experienced and professional Senior Planner to join our Parks, Recreation, and Culture Department. This is a complex and multifaceted planning role requiring advanced technical knowledge, independent judgment, and the ability to lead and mentor others. The successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively as part of a dynamic team focused on creating vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable public spaces.

This is a Regular Full-Time TERM position, with some field work and attendance at public consultation meetings required. Hours may vary based on project needs.

EMPLOYMENT STATUS

Union - CUPE Local 402 – Term (14 months)

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Senior Planner in Parks, Recreation, and Culture, you will lead, coordinate, and support a variety of complex planning assignments and public realm projects. You will provide expert guidance to staff, stakeholders, and consultants, while ensuring alignment with departmental objectives and broader City strategies.

• Reviewing and providing detailed technical comments on complex development applications related to parks, recreation, and culture.
• Preparing and updating policy documents, bylaw amendments, and comprehensive planning reports.
• Managing departmental projects and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Leading and participating in public consultation sessions, focus groups, and stakeholder meetings
• Providing mentorship and some supervision to park planning and technical staff.
• Conducting site inspections, managing contracts, and overseeing work performed by consultants and contractors.
• Preparing working drawings, schematic sketches, plans, and specifications.
• Supporting the design of public urban spaces, including streetscapes, plazas, and open spaces.
• Staying current with emerging planning practices, sustainable design principles, and relevant legislation.

QUALIFICATIONS

• The ideal candidate will possess:
• A degree in Planning or a related discipline with a minimum of six years of related experience, or
• A master’s degree in planning or landscape architecture with at least four years of related experience.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

1. Additional Requirements:

• Membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners / Planning Institute of BC is preferred.
• Valid BC Driver’s License.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects independently and collaboratively.
• Strong public engagement and facilitation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Advanced knowledge of urban planning, sustainable design, landscape construction standards, and applicable safety regulations.
• Proficiency with software such as AutoCAD, GIS, and other planning/design tools.

Applicants under consideration will be required to consent to a Police Information Check. Successful candidates will be required to provide proof of qualifications.

Pay Steps

Hourly Rate (2024 Rates)

Step 1 - $60.82, Step 2 (6 months) - $63.35, Step 3 (18 months)- $66.00,

Step 4 (30 months)- $68.79

This Posting Closes on April 13, 2026.