Planner (TEMPORARY OPPORTUNITY)

The Durham District School Board acknowledges that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships, both historic and modern, with the territories upon which our school board and schools are located. Today, this area is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge that the Durham Region forms a part of the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Mississauga Peoples and the treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. It is on these ancestral and treaty lands that we teach, live and learn.

This statement was co-created in partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island.

This position provides technical planning expertise and support to DDSB departments in enrolment forecasting, accommodation reviews, and land-use planning, ensuring alignment with Board strategic priorities, applicable legislation, and Ministry directives. Oversees the implementation and administration of the Education Development Charges (EDC) program and manages current and long-term accommodation data for internal and external stakeholders. Supports the Ministry of Education’s Pupil Accommodation Review process (including school closures and consolidations) in accordance with Board policies and Ministry guidelines, and contributes to the development and maintenance of enrolment projections. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities: 

Enrollment Projections

• Support the development and maintenance of statistical enrollment projection models (elementary and secondary) for annual and long-term planning
• Analyze and interpret model outputs to support facilities planning, accommodation reviews, staffing, enrolment, EDC, and funding requests
• Collect and compile data from primary and secondary sources, including stakeholder consultations
• Identify opportunities to improve model accuracy and efficiency on an ongoing basis
• Assist in the preparation of reports and documents (e.g., annual OEP) for internal and external stakeholders

Land Use Planning

• Manage end-to-end land use planning processes related to DDSB facilities
• Review and provide input on municipal planning applications (e.g., Plans of Subdivision, Official Plan/Zoning By-law Amendments, Secondary Plans)
• Liaise with municipal and regional authorities on planning matters within DDSB jurisdiction
• Ensure school sites align with appropriate land-use designations; manage amendments where required
• Coordinate option agreements with landowners in partnership with Legal Counsel
• Conduct growth analysis to forecast future facility needs and recommend accommodation strategies
• Support school boundary reviews, including analysis, reporting, and public consultation processes

Classroom and Portable Use

• Review school floor plans annually to determine classroom and portable requirements
• Ensure compliance with DDSB policies, Ministry requirements, and applicable legislation
• Maintain and support the tracking of classrooms and portables for operational planning
• Assess site capacity, including parking and space requirements for additional portables

Education Development Charges (EDC) Management

• Manage the development, review, renewal, and administration of EDC bylaws
• Respond to stakeholder inquiries and represent DDSB in municipal and appeal processes
• Collaborate with Legal Counsel on Ontario Land Tribunal matters, as required
• Support procurement processes (e.g., RFP) for EDC consultants and coordinate related work
• Work with consultants to develop required reports for stakeholders

Accommodation Review & Stakeholder Management

• Conduct data collection, research, and statistical analysis to support accommodation reviews
• Prepare reports and documentation in accordance with DDSB policies and Ministry requirements
• Support report development for senior leadership, Board of Trustees, committees, and public consultation
• Respond to stakeholder inquiries and provide additional analysis as required
• Coordinate communications and engagement activities throughout the review process
• Lead and facilitate internal and external meetings to ensure effective project coordination
• Manage partnership initiatives, including facility partnerships, sponsorships, and donations

Education:

• Completion of a post-secondary university degree in Urban Planning or a related field, or combination of education, training and experience deemed to be equivalent.
• Membership with one or more of the following is considered an asset: the Ontario Professional Planners Institute, Canadian Institute of Planners, or the Ontario Association of School Board Officials (OASBO).

Experience, Knowledge and Skills:

• 2 years related planning experience
• School Board and/or municipal planning experience is considered an asset
• Demonstrated experience/knowledge of GIS Applications
• Experience with Microsoft Office programs, and minimum intermediate Excel skills
• Knowledge of or experience with Provincial municipal planning or education legislation, policies and procedures is considered an asset
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral
• Knowledge/experience with School Planning Software (SPS) preferred
• Sound judgement, analytical, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and organizational skills
• Ability to work well under tight deadlines and manage competing priorities

Additional Information:

• This is a 35 hour per week, temporary opportunity available until approximately November 6, 2026.
• Provide a current criminal record and judicial matters check (CRJMC) screening upon hire.

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

 Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.