Strategic Planner

Description:

The City of Ottawa’s Public Works Department is responsible for the maintenance of city roads and parks, traffic operations, and the collection, processing, and disposal of solid waste.

As a Strategic Planner, you will be responsible for strategic planning, communications planning, project management, program evaluation, and performance measurement of high-level departmental projects and objectives. You will use effective project management methodologies to lead and manage projects and project teams to achieve desired outcomes within time and budget constraints.

You must be capable of driving and influencing change within the department, working collaboratively, and establishing relationships across the organization.

Education and Experience:

• A four-year degree in environmental sciences (biology, chemistry, earth sciences, or physical geography), public or business administration, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field.

• At least 5 years of experience in supporting operational and strategic planning, managing and evaluating projects and program initiatives, preferably in a public works or utility services environment.

• Experience in research and analysis, public and regulatory communication, and management of external consultants.

Knowledge Requirements:

• Governmental structure and administrative processes, including intergovernmental stakeholders

• General knowledge of wastewater collection and treatment, biosolids management, water production, distribution and conservation, solid waste, surface and groundwater management, and energy and air quality control

• Relevant laws and regulations such as the Environmental Protection Act, Ontario Water Resources Act, Environmental Assessment Act, Green Energy Act, and Nutrient Management Act

• Communication and consultation methods

• Moderation and negotiation processes

• Quality management systems

• Data collection, research, and analytical methodologies

• Project management principles

• Contract management tools and procedures

• Project and program evaluation and performance measurement

• Health and safety legislation relevant to worker rights and responsibilities

Skills and Abilities:

• Work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team

• Identify and analyze problems, and manage multidisciplinary tasks

• Provide leadership to plan, direct, coordinate, implement, and manage projects; supervise employees functionally and oversee quality, timelines, and deliverables

• Organize, implement, and prioritize own work across multiple high-demand projects under pressure and conflicting priorities

• Use primary and secondary research to analyze data and operational practices, interpret issues, and make informed recommendations

• Manage contracts and build professional relationships to meet departmental goals

• Strong computer literacy with software such as MS Office Suite, PowerPoint, database management, and project tracking systems

• Excellent consultation, collaboration, interpersonal, and conflict management skills

• Strong documentation, report writing, and presentation abilities

• Leadership, initiative, and sound judgment

• Flexibility, adaptability, diplomacy, discretion, and a customer service mindset

Additional Information:

• Language Requirement: Proficiency in spoken, written, and read English

• Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered in lieu of formal education

• Please retain a copy of the job posting, as it will no longer be available after the closing date

• Application Deadline: May 6, 2025