Town of Cochrane accepting applications for permanent land use planner until May 21

The Town of Cochrane is accepting applications until 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, for a permanent, full-time land use planner position. The posting is dated May 4.

The planner role is part of how the town reviews development and planning proposals, including preparing reports and recommendations that go to Cochrane council.

The posting lists the salary range as $78,706 to $88,573 (under review). The job includes benefits and a defined-benefit pension.

Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some evening and weekend work.

The planner reports to the town’s chief administrative officer and handles matters under Ontario’s Planning Act. Duties include reviewing and processing development applications such as consents, minor variances, zoning, official plan amendments and site plans, as well as plans of subdivision and site planning.

The job also includes evaluating development proposals for compliance with policies, regulations and standards, and preparing and presenting reports and recommendations to council. Other duties listed include conducting research and analysis on land use and growth trends, and collecting and interpreting data such as land use information, census data, tax base figures, and occupancy rates.

The planner is expected to provide professional planning advice to council, staff, developers and the public. The role also acts as staff liaison to the Committee of Adjustment and the Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board, including attending meetings and preparing related reports.

Minimum qualifications include a post-secondary degree in urban design, landscape architecture, geography, or a closely related field, and approximately three to five years of related experience in a land use planning office. Applicants must also be eligible for membership in OPPI, OAA and/or OALA.

Applications are due May 21, though the posting also says the position will remain open until filled. The town says it will not use AI in the selection process.