As the County of Wetaskiwin continues its commitment to revitalize and enhance its economic landscape and mission for sustainable growth and development, we are currently recruiting for a dynamic and visionary individual to join the Planning & Development Department as a Development Officer in a permanent full-time capacity.

COUNTY OF WETASKIWIN

Located along the bustling Highway 2 corridor, the County of Wetaskiwin offers an ideal setting for ongoing and innovative development and planning initiatives. Our strategic position in central Alberta, near the Edmonton Capital Region, provides ample opportunities for leveraging our natural resources and fostering sustainable growth. We envision harnessing the potential of this location to drive forward innovative ventures that contribute to both economic prosperity and environmental stewardship. Amidst its stunning natural beauty, including picturesque lakes and diverse landscapes, the County of Wetaskiwin also holds immense tourism potential, offering visitors and residents unforgettable experiences making it the ideal location to live, work, and play.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director of Planning & Development, the Development Officer shall undertake and complete all assigned tasks and responsibilities with minimal supervision and at a decision making level. This position requires considerable interaction with the public, developers and regulatory agencies. The Development Officer shall be able to complete the tasks and responsibilities with direct liaison with department directors and outside agencies. Familiarization with all department functions is critical to ensure support is also provided to those positions from time to time. Hours of work are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or as required.

REQUIREMENTS

 Must have post secondary education in land use planning, a related field or several years experience in a municipal planning and development setting. Also, have a willingness to pursue further education such as an Applied Land Use Planning Certificate.

 Experience in both urban and rural planning environment is preferred

 Eligibility for membership in the Alberta Development Officers Association (ADOA) or the Alberta Professional Planners Institute (APPI)

 Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to maintain a professional and positive image while working with internal and external customers and residents

 Excellent organizational skills with the ability to demonstrate a high standard of thoroughness, accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of the job

 Ability to work independently while advancing multiple concurrent and competing projects, tasks, and initiatives

 Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills

 Knowledge of relevant legislation, with the ability to apply legislation, policies and programs to planning and development projects

 Advanced knowledge of development permitting and land use compliance

 Be able to conduct site inspections.

 Hold a Class 5 license with an exemplary driver’s abstract.

 Computer literacy is required with knowledge using MS Office applications.

RESPONSIBILITIES

 Confirm that all incoming application submissions meet the requirements, and all relevant information is submitted

 Determine and assign appropriate land use classification, ensure applicable regulations are met or applicable variance documentation is submitted

 Manage the application review process ensuring files are processed in a timely and efficient manner

 Circulate, when legislated, relevant information to internal/external stakeholder agencies seeking feedback on proposed development or resubmissions

 Review and prepare development notifications and circulations to affected landowners and provide responses related to land use matters

 Interpret and apply the Land Use Bylaw during the review and decision process of development permit applications and statements respecting compliance

 Analyze, review and make decisions on development permits with varying complexity in an urban and rural environment (serviced/un-serviced land) including project-based development

 Conduct site inspections related to proposed development and subsequent inspections to ensure completion and compliance of development permit conditions

 Investigate inquiries and complaints regarding compliance with the Land Use Bylaw

 Provide information and interpretation of development permit decisions and/or Stop Orders to Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) hearings for the purpose of representing the regulations and policies of Wetaskiwin County

 Provide information, interpretation, and direction regarding applicable Land Use Bylaw regulations, policies and processes to the development industry and general public

 Provide department technical expertise and maintain relationships with development industry

JOIN OUR TEAM

If you are an individual passionate about current planning and development and eager to enact change, we welcome you to join our efforts in shaping the future of the County of Wetaskiwin. Our organization boasts an exceptional corporate culture, complete with a social committee that organizes numerous activities year-round. We offer a comprehensive benefits package with a health and wellness spending account, pension program, vacation plan, alongside competitive compensation, which will be determined based on your experience. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our community and build a prosperous future for generations to come.

APPLY

Interested candidates are invited to apply with a cover letter and resume by email to bwolter@county10.ca or online at www.county.wetaskiwin.ab.ca/jobs.aspx. Please indicate “Development Officer Posting 2025/18” in the subject line of your email. Closing date: Thursday, June 26, 2025.

All applications are appreciated, however, only those candidates under consideration will be contacted directly. Please be advised that applications will be monitored daily, and interviews may be scheduled throughout the posting period.