Manager Urban Landscape Development

Requisition ID: 43328 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Are you passionate about urban forestry and landscape development? We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Manager Urban Landscape Development to join our team! This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the preservation of urban trees and the development of sustainable landscapes within our city. As a key leader, you will oversee the management and enforcement of tree bylaws, and provide technical expertise and guidance on landscape development projects.

Main Responsibilities:

• Policy Development and Recommendations: You will develop and recommend policies, procedures, and practices to ensure the protection and preservation of trees in alignment with local regulations.
• Tree By-law Enforcement: Manage administrative activities associated with the enforcement of tree bylaws, including conducting tree inspections and making determinations on tree preservation (healthy, at risk, diseased, etc.).
• Permit Review and Landscape Planning: Review tree cutting/removal permit applications, assess complex landscape plans for residential, commercial, industrial, and major developments, and recommend approval, rejection, or necessary alterations.
• Leadership & Supervision: Supervise and guide landscape development staff, providing coaching, performance management, and fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Strategic Leadership: Lead and contribute to the Urban Forest Strategy, collaborating with various departments to ensure the successful regulation of tree permitting on privately held lands.
• Customer Relations: Serve as the subject matter expert for senior leadership and provide exceptional service by addressing inquiries and resolving landscape-related public complaints.
• Compliance Expertise: Provide strategic recommendations to improve regulatory compliance.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: 
  • University Graduation in Landscape Architecture, or related discipline with considerable related experience; supplemented by certification with International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) as a Certified Arborist with a Qualified Tree Risk Assessor extension required; or an equivalent combination of education training, and experience.
  • 6 years minimum experience in a related field

• Knowledge & Skills:
  • In-depth understanding of local by-laws, urban design principles, and development practices.
  • Expertise in landscape architectural design, tree preservation, and arboricultural practices.
  • Ability to assess landscape plans, make recommendations, and advise developers and stakeholders on tree protection.
  • Strong leadership, management, and conflict resolution skills with a focus on staff development.
  • Proficiency in software tools like Posse, Blue Beam, and Adobe Acrobat.

Join Us: This is your opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban landscapes and tree protection in our city. If you have a passion for environmental stewardship, leadership, and making a meaningful impact on the urban ecosystem, we want to hear from you!
 

Apply today to become part of a forward-thinking team committed to building a sustainable and green future

Where operationally appropriate and subject to change, the City of Vancouver has a Flexible Work Program. This program allows staff to work remotely 1 – 4 days a week from locations that are a daily commutable distance from their work at a City worksite.  At this time this position is eligible to be part of the Flexible Work Program.

Business Unit/Department: Development, Buildings & Licensing (1250) 

Affiliation: Exempt 

Employment Type: Regular Full Time 

Position Start Date: May, 2025 

Salary Information: Pay Grade RNG-091: $111,139 to $138,924 per annum

Application Close: March 23, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

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