Zoning Examiner

Job Summary

Reporting to the Supervisor, Zoning, this position examines site plans, architectural drawings, and related documentation to determine compliance with Mississauga’s Zoning By-law. The Zoning Examiner also provides plain-language guidance to technical and non-technical stakeholders throughout the development approvals process.

This role contributes to an engaged team environment that supports several review streams including building permits, certificates of occupancy, and preliminary zoning applications. Success in this position requires attention to fine detail on architectural plans, the ability to read and understand complex by-law terminology, and a commitment to continuous learning in an evolving regulatory setting.

Duties and Responsibilities

Zoning Plans Examination

• Review development applications (building permit, certificate of occupancy, preliminary zoning review, pool permits, etc.) to confirm zoning by-law compliance.
• Prepare zoning analysis reports identifying non-compliance and/or outlining additional information required to achieve compliance.

Customer Service

• Provide zoning customer service through counter support (as needed), email, and telephone inquiries.
• Respond to a wide range of zoning inquiries and deliver plain-language guidance to applicants, property owners, builders, design professionals, and other stakeholders.
• Apply a solution-focused approach to resolve zoning-related development approvals barriers.

Communication

• Notify applicants of review outcomes, outstanding requirements, and next steps to support application processing.
• Represent Zoning staff as a subject matter expert at stakeholder meetings, internal working groups, public hearings, and development discussions.

Continuous Learning & Improvement

• Identify and report recurring issues, development trends, and technical challenges in the Zoning By-law, recommending updates or process improvements.
• Participate in team discussions to refine zoning interpretations, share insights, and develop consistent review strategies and best practices.
• Support a collaborative, learning-oriented team environment by sharing knowledge and engaging in continuous professional development.
• Contribute to sectional business improvement projects.
• Perform other related duties assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Education

• Diploma or four year degree (preferred) in Planning, Architectural Technology, Engineering, or Law.
• Successful completion of a technical examination program administered and authorized by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is an asset.
• Relevant professional designation (RPP, CPT, CBCO, CET, MAATO, etc.) are assets.
• Possession for BCIN registration under the Ontario Building Code is an asset.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years in the planning/building industry or municipal environment.
• Direct experience with plans examination and zoning interpretation.

Knowledge & Technical Skills

• Reading and interpreting architectural/civil drawings, site plans, surveys, and specifications.
• Knowledge of municipal zoning by-laws, the Planning Act, and the Building Code Act/Ontario Building Code (as they relate to zoning) and other regulatory law.
• Proficient written and verbal communication, including technical report writing and plain-language explanations for diverse audiences.
• Customer service strength, including conflict resolution and problem solving.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment, contribute to shared goals, and support colleagues in achieving collective success.
• Proficient with MS Office, GIS and CAD. Experience with digital permitting/ePlans is an asset.