City of Port Alberni

At the heart of the west coast, where the forest meets the sea, is the vibrant waterfront community of Port Alberni. Surrounded by glacial peaks and nestled along a 48-kilometre saltwater inlet that opens to the Pacific Ocean, Port Alberni offers residents the best of West Coast living in a setting that is both breathtaking and accessible.

Home to nearly 20,000 people, Port Alberni is located within the traditional unceded territories of the Tseshaht and Hupačasath First Nations. These relationships are foundational to the City’s identity, and reconciliation
remains a central part of our planning and decision-making.

Port Alberni combines small-town warmth with big-city amenities. We are proud to offer a deep sea port, a modern hospital, a state-of-the-art high school, and more recreational facilities than many larger centres. From
skating rinks and scenic trails to soccer fields and bike parks, our community is built for active, healthy lifestyles across all generations.

Our waterfront is a hub of activity and a source of pride. The Harbour Quay, waterfront pathways, and working marinas offer space to gather, explore, and celebrate. Local shops, cafes, and weekly markets add charm and
character, creating a strong sense of community connection.

As we continue to grow, Port Alberni is embracing new economic opportunities while honouring its roots. Forestry and related manufacturing remain key industries, but we are diversifying—welcoming innovation in tourism, marine and aerospace sectors, the arts, clean technologies, and value-added food processing. Our position as a leader in the fish and seafood industry, strengthened by partnerships with First Nations and rural communities, supports a sustainable, forward-looking economy.

Port Alberni offers affordability, opportunity, and quality of life. Here, nature is at your doorstep, and community is just around the corner. Whether you’re drawn by the ocean, the mountains, or the promise of a close-knit and growing city, Port Alberni is ready for you.

The City is seeking a Planner I or Planner II to join the City’s Planning Department. Reporting to the Manager of Planning, the successful applicant will perform a variety of professional planning duties. These duties will include (depending on position) processing land use and development applications;
preparing reports, permits and bylaws; responding to planning inquiries; assisting with policy development and coordinating public consultation; administering the City’s OCP Bylaw, Zoning Bylaw and Development Permit Area guidelines.

Planner I:
•  Reviews development and land use applications including OCP and Zoning Bylaw amendments, development variance permits, subdivisions, and development permits
• Supports implementation of the City’s Official Community Plan
• Provides general and technical information, advice and assistance to other departments, applicants, external stakeholders, government agencies, elected officials and the general public regarding development and land use issues
• Supports applicants in understanding City processes and submitting applications
• Assists with community planning studies and amendments to development bylaws and policies
• Prepares graphics and other material for presentation at meetings such as public hearings and public information meetings, and participates in such meetings
• Presents development applications to Council and other committees as required

Planner II:
•  Reviews development and land use applications including OCP and Zoning Bylaw amendments, development variance permits, subdivisions, and development permits
• Supports implementation of the City’s Official Community Plan
• Researches and drafts amendments to development bylaws and policies, and follow-up of special projects as required
• Prepares comprehensive planning reports, recommendations and policy proposals for submission to managers, Council and various committees
• Presents development applications and planning projects to Council and committees as required
• Provides technical information, advice and assistance to other departments, external stakeholders, government agencies, elected officials, and the general public in a manner that is tactful, clear, concise and professional
• Conducts and facilitates public engagement using a variety of forums and methods

The wage rate for the Planner I position is $46.00 per hour, and for the Planner II position is $51.00 per hour, with a comprehensive benefits package
including Municipal Pension Plan. In addition, this position works a flex day schedule.

Planner I:
• A bachelor's degree in Community, Urban or Regional Planning, Geography or an equivalent discipline related to Planning
• A minimum of one year of related planning experience in a municipal setting
• Membership or eligibility for membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and the Planning Institute of BC (PIBC)
• Sound knowledge of site planning, urban design, and community planning practices as well as planning legislation and applicable bylaws
• Considerable experience and skill using Microsoft 365 software. Knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud graphic design applications, ArcGIS and SketchUp is considered an asset.
• Excellent report writing, research, analytical, problem-solving and presentation skills
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, customer service and organizational skills
• Possession of a valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License

Planner II:
In addition to the above qualifications and experience:
• A minimum of four years of experience in community or regional planning, with experience at the local government level
• Sound knowledge of subdivision control provisions and requirements

Qualified candidates may apply by forwarding a resume and cover letter to: 
humanresources_resumes@portalberni.ca.

For additional information, including a full job description please go to: portalberni.ca/employment-opportunities.

This position will remain open until filled.