Zoning Administrator

About Norfolk County

Norfolk County, located in Southwestern Ontario, is a vibrant municipality of over 70,000 people known for its innovative spirit, collaborative environment, and dynamic community development opportunities. As one of Ontario's largest single-tier municipalities, Norfolk County offers an environment where employees can develop their skills and advance their careers.

Role Overview

The Zoning Administrator role involves assessing and interpreting zoning by-laws to facilitate building permits and development proposals. Serving as a primary contact for both customers and internal staff, this position ensures that development aligns with municipal planning policies to foster compliant and well-structured communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Examine zoning by-law provisions in relation to building permit applications, including considerations such as Minimum Distance Separation and Source Protection.
• Conduct zoning reviews and provide formal written feedback on building and development submissions.
• Offer professional advice and clarify the County's zoning by-law interpretations.
• Assess and determine the status of legal non-conforming and legal non-complying properties.
• Evaluate planning and development applications, including site plans, minor variances, zoning amendments, severances, and subdivisions to ensure compliance.
• Monitor zoning compliance for tourism partners and special events regularly.
• Coordinate with other departments for consistent interpretation and application of zoning by-laws.
• Respond promptly to inquiries from applicants and the development industry regarding permitted uses, setbacks, parking requirements, and related zoning matters.
• Provide timely front counter, telephone, and email support concerning land use, zoning questions, and by-law interpretations.
• Prepare property information and zoning compliance responses as requested.
• Collaborate with County teams concerning building permits, site plans, zoning amendments, Committee of Adjustment applications, and related development matters.
• Participate in development-related meetings such as pre-consultations and site plan review sessions.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors.

Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma (minimum two years) in a relevant field such as Land Use Planning, Architectural Technology, or comparable discipline.
• At least two years of experience in municipal planning, building, or zoning administration.
• Membership or eligibility for professional organizations such as OPPI/CIP, OBOA, or OACETT is advantageous.
• Solid understanding of the Ontario Building Code, Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement, Official Plans, Secondary Plans, and zoning by-laws and principles.
• Familiarity with the development process, including Committee of Adjustment procedures (Consent and Minor Variance), Official Plan Amendments, Zoning By-law Amendments, Subdivisions, Site Plans, and Condominium approvals.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and blueprints accurately.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a polite and professional demeanor toward council members, colleagues, and the public.
• Strong organizational capabilities, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines effectively.
• Proven interpersonal, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience and comprehensive knowledge of municipal operations and business processes.
• Exceptional customer service orientation and ability to work independently or within a team environment.
• Valid Ontario driver's license with access to a reliable vehicle.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and departmental software including CityView and GIS.
• Awareness of safe work practices related to job duties and work environment, alongside an understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Additional Information

• Position status: Permanent Full Time within CUPE Local 4700 employee group.
• Work schedule: 35 hours per week.
• Hourly wage range: $28.59 to $35.70 CAD.
• Reports to the Supervisor, Building.
• Location: Simcoe, Ontario.
• Posting references: CUPE 52.26, Position Code 4BBZAD.
• Application notes: Resume files must be in .doc, .docx, or .pdf format; cover letter and resume combined in a single file if submitted.
• Equal opportunity employer with accessibility accommodations available upon request during recruitment.
• No use of Artificial Intelligence in screening or selection processes.
• Successful candidates must provide current Criminal Record Check and education verification.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.