Lethbridge County is doing something new — and we want you to be part of it from day one.
We're launching a first-of-its-kind regional planning partnership with the Town of Coalhurst, bringing urban and urban planning together under a collaborative model that is breaking new ground in Alberta municipal governance. As our Technician, Planning & Development,you'll be right in the middle of it — supporting real files, real applications, and real decisions that span the full range of the planning world.
One day you might be reviewing a development application in a growing urban community; the next you're out in the field verifying conditions on an acreage or agricultural parcel in the county. You'll work with GIS, build your application processing skills, and support the planning team on policy, research, and public engagement — all while gaining experience that most technicians spend years waiting for.
This is an ideal entry point for a new graduate or an early-career planner who wants to learn fast, contribute meaningfully, and be part of something that's never been tried before. Lethbridge County is a team that invests in its people — and with this partnership, we're offering front-row exposure to some of the most interesting planning work happening in Southern Alberta right now.
Position Summary
The Planning and Development Technician provides technical and administrative support to the Planning and Development Department. This position is responsible for assisting in the review and processing of development and planning applications, interpreting zoning regulations, maintaining planning records, preparing maps and related materials, and supporting policy and development initiatives. The technician works under the direction of the Manager of Planning and Development to ensure consistent and effective delivery of planning services.
Reports To
Manager, Planning & Development
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with the intake, review, and tracking of development applications.
- Assist with the processing of land use bylaw amendments, subdivisions and other statutory plan amendments.
- Provide technical support in the preparation and presentation of reports, maps, graphics, and statistical data related to planning projects.
- Interpret and apply municipal planning policies, zoning bylaws, official plans, and relevant legislation.
- Respond to public and developer inquiries related to zoning, land use, and development processes in a professional and timely manner.
- Assist with preparing council reports, presentations, and land use planning reports for Council, appeal boards, and various public meetings.
- Conduct site inspections and field work as required to gather data or verify development conditions.
- Maintain up-to-date planning records, application files, and GIS/mapping databases.
- Support the preparation of materials for Council meetings.
- Collaborate with other municipal departments and agencies to coordinate development approvals.
- Participate in departmental projects, policy reviews, and research initiatives under the guidance of Manager of Planning and Development.
- Actively participate in Lethbridge County’s Health and Safety Program.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Planning and Development Department.
Education/Training/Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in urban and/or rural planning, geographic information systems (GIS), or related field (new graduate) or a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field with 1-3 years of experience.
- Education and/or experience in municipal planning or a related environment is preferred.
- Knowledge of relevant provincial legislation, planning principles, and development processes.
- Proficiency with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS), AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
- Valid Class 5 driver’s license required.
- Ability to occasionally work outside in all weather conditions including snow, rain, and wind, and extreme temperatures.
- Ability to occasionally walk on uneven surfaces including gravel.
- Ability to occasionally work outside of regular business hours for community engagement and council meetings.
Pay: $65,000.00-$78,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
