Job ID #31245: Planning and Development Solicitor

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #31287: Planning and Development Solicitor


• Union: Non-Union


• Job Description ID #: 5377
  


• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-city by 4:00 p.m. on September 10 2025.


• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
  
  

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

The City of Hamilton’s Legal Services Division is seeking a planning and development lawyer to support the City’s Planning and Economic Development Division. The City offers an environment where staff can grow and is a great place to build a career while also making a difference in the community. The successful candidate will provide legal advice, advocacy and services to Council, management and staff pertaining to planning and development matters including land use planning, development agreements, expropriations, and development charges, as well as administrative law including advocacy before administrative tribunals such as the Ontario Land Tribunal.

GENERAL DUTIES

• Provides specialized legal services, representation and advice to the City Council, senior management and staff at all levels on planning and development legal matters.


• Develops and implements proactive strategies, anticipates and identifies legal challenges that help to protect the interests of the City and to reduce exposure to legal risks.


• Ensures that legal services are provided that contribute to the effectiveness of programs and services throughout the City including research, analysis, counselling and advice on the legal implications of matters of the law, legislation, procedures, operational and strategic decisions.


• Reviews and prepares documents, policies and procedures for the City to ensure that they are clear, concise, comply with all applicable laws and so as to minimize exposure.


• Provides legal opinions and advice on matters that pose significant risks to the City to assist decision-makers at all levels in making decisions regarding their service and program delivery.


• Works in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.


• Performs other duties as assigned which are directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor of Laws degree or Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognized University.  Membership in good standing in the Law Society of Ontario.


2. Advanced knowledge attained through progressively more responsible practice in the areas of planning and development law normally attained through 5+ years of progressively more responsible practice in these areas of law.


3. Possess a high level of professionalism and integrity, and excellent communication skills.


4. Highly developed analytical and business planning skills with a proven track record for long-term visioning and big picture thinking.  Experienced in designing and delivering customer focused programs and services; and using a "best practices" approach in developing and delivering quality services in a timely and cost effective manner.


5. Excellent presentation, interpersonal and organizational skills with the ability to develop work plans and agreements and to design and implement strategies which improve effectiveness and efficiency.


6. Understanding of key statutes, regulations and by-laws affecting the Division and municipality an asset.


7. Demonstrated knowledge of the Planning Act and applicable regulations as it relates to the position.


8. Must have computer skills in a Windows environment utilizing MS Office software.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship.  If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.