Planners are critical to the sustainability of safe, secure and healthy urban environments. Owing to Canada’s increasing population and migration to urban areas, the work of a planner is becoming more and more focused on urban conversion, the use of natural habitats and resources, environmental protection and the development of transportation.
A planner may also be required to plan social and community services, manage cultural and heritage resources, and address any transportation issues. Day-to-day duties may include reviewing and evaluating proposals for land use, recommending land development concepts and conferring with appropriate authorities.
Employees in this area of work are usually required to be members of the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP). Membership is obtained by gaining a bachelor’s degree in planning or a related subject such as geography, engineering, environmental studies, political science or economics, plus either two, four or six years’ experience in planning, depending on whether the applicant’s degree is recognized, related or unrelated. Starting salaries are between C
$40,000 and C
$50,000, with senior positions offering in excess of C
$80,000.