Deputy Director of Planning and Development Services

Work with MODL

We believe in a healthy work life balance for all employees that respects their personal time and allows them to lead fulfilling, impactful lives. We support the physical and mental health of our team through popular workplace wellness initiatives, generous EFAP services and an excellent benefits package. Lifelong learning is valued - we invest in educational opportunities for our employees. MODL offers a condensed work week and work from home options.

At MODL we understand that our uniqueness as individuals is how we become great at a team. We value the experiences and perspectives of all our team members, and we are proud that equity, diversity, and inclusion are among our core values. We're committed to providing fair and equitable opportunities to all applicants, free from discrimination. We also strive to make our recruitment processes mirror our values and will provide accommodations to candidates to ensure access to and participation in our recruitment processes are accessible to all. If you require an accommodation, please reach out to us via email at [email protected] or call 902-543-8181.

About the Role

Under the direction of the Director of Planning & Development Services, the Deputy Director of Planning & Development Services is responsible for the development planning documents, which are used to guide and regulate new development activities in the Municipality. The Deputy Director oversees the review, and revision of municipal development and planning documents, ensuring they remain current, effective, and aligned with Council's strategic direction. The Deputy Director is responsible for communicating with members of the public, and with Council, to identify how land use policy will affect development decisions, both as they relate to specific properties and to the broader direction of growth and development. The Deputy Director is a supervisory position.

Is this you?

You are an organized professional who enjoys conducting research and working with details. You have the ability to be a critical thinker and use sound judgement. You easily connect with people and can engage in conversation about the projects and strategy for MODL. With your passion for high quality work, you are open and welcoming of diverse viewpoints, perspectives, and experiences. You enjoy working with and developing others in leading a team of professionals.

Job Responsibilities

• Researches, prepares, and provides reports to Council on planning studies, including land use inventories and reviews, public opinion surveys, and specific site/subject evaluations.
• Researches, prepares reports, identifies and provides options and recommendation on various planning and development related matters, including the adoption and amendment of local planning strategies and land use by-laws, in liaison with Council, municipal staff, provincial staff, the Planning Advisory Committee, local Area Advisory Committees and members of the general public.
• Advises Council on statutory requirements and procedures for the preparation, amendment and review of planning documents, and carries out, according to statutory requirements, all procedures for the preparation, adoption, amendment and review of planning documents.
• Provides consultation on planning matters to governments, various agencies, committees, and, as directed by Council, to public groups involved in any planning activity.
• Provides verbal and written presentations at meetings of Council, Council Committees and in the community.
• Designs and conducts public consultation meetings to facilitate public input into the planning process.
• Develops policy and land use regulations.
• Ensures legislative and compliance is foremost in all policy development initiatives.
• Maintains an awareness of developments within the disciplines of the Department to promote innovative policy and growth management concepts.
• Administration and enforcement of the Land Use By-laws and the Subdivision By-law.
• Provides direct supervision to Planner I, II and Senior Planners, and COOP Planner positions including scheduling, delegation of tasks/projects, performance management, coaching/mentoring.

Qualifications:

Minimum qualifications include:

• a bachelor's degree in a Planning-related field required. Masters level preferred; and
• a minimum of 7 years experience working in the Planning field; OR
• An equivalent combination of education and experience in public policy administration.

• Knowledge of the Nova Scotia Municipal Government Act and related legislation and provincial policies
• Experience in a team lead or supervisory capacity is a strong asset
• Strong speaking and presentation skills
• Full membership with the Canadian Institute of Planners and eligible to be licensed as a Licensed Professional Planner in Nova Scotia
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software programs
• Knowledge of GIS considered an asset
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Organizational and time management skills are essential
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills
• Tact and diplomacy in explaining land use and concepts to residents
• Valid driver's license is required.

Terms and Conditions of Employment:

• Permanent full time, Monday to Friday based on 35 hours per week.
• Flexible work options are available.
• Office environment, primarily based out of 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville, Nova Scotia.
• Work outside regular office hours is required to attend evening meetings as necessary.

Other Important Details:

• Requires a satisfactory background checks, including criminal record check.
• Annual salary: (Band 85) $105,998 to $132,496.
• Competitive group insurance, health and dental plan and defined benefit pension plan.

Please submit a resume and cover letter no later than May 25, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. at:https://modl.scouterecruit.net/jobs/MODL2026008.