Summer Student Planner – Policy and Research

Summer Student Planner – Policy and Research at The Corporation of the City of Markham

The City of Markham is proud to be recognized for the 5th consecutive year as one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes and Statista Inc. In 2025, the City of Markham is ranked 2nd among municipalities in Canada and 12th overall for Government Services. The recipient of multiple environmental awards, we are recognized for our innovative sustainability and urban planning initiatives as well as our fiscal accountability.

More than 366,000 residents call Markham home and benefit from our rich heritage, culturally diverse environment, vibrant local economy and focus on quality of life. Summer student applications are now being accepted for the position of Student Planner in the Development Services Commission. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter online by January 11, 2026. Join us and make a lasting difference!

The City of Markham is experiencing significant growth. As a result, the Development Services Commission is looking for a university/graduate student who is a dedicated self-starter to work in our fast-paced environment by assisting with policy research and analysis, the official plan review, secondary plans, affordable housing and community engagement initiatives. The successful candidate must have a good understanding of land use policy planning and familiarity with one or more of the following topics: housing, policy development, and growth management.

• Provide in-depth technical assistance, research and evaluation of options on a variety of land use policy matters such as the City of Markham’s Official Plan Review (e.g., Growth Management, Major Transit Station Areas, Settlement Area Boundary Expansion, etc.), Secondary Plans, and Affordable and Rental Housing.
• Undertake and/or assist with research and implementation of new projects.
• Participate and support public consultation and community/stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Assist in the preparation of communication materials such as planning reports, discussion papers, briefing materials, presentations, and community engagement material.
• Research emerging planning and development issues.
• Assist project managers on key issues that arise during projects.
• Prepare meeting agendas and minutes.
• Liaise with residents, internal departments, other government/agencies and special interest groups on planning matters.

• Currently enrolled in a university program in Urban Planning or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in researching complex issues.
• Knowledge of relevant land use planning legislation, regulations and processes.
• Good report writing and communication skills.
• Good analytical and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Proficiency with video conferencing software including Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
• Must be able to contribute positively to a respectful professional environment.

• Beginning of May to end of August 2026.
• Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, 35 hours per week (excluding Holidays).

On-site at the City of Markham office located at 101 Town Centre Boulevard, Markham, ON.

• Service Excellence:
  Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
• Change & Innovation:
  Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
• Teamwork & Relationship Building:
  Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
• Communication:
  Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
• Accountable & Results Oriented:
  Demonstrates ethical behavior and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
• Management & Leadership:
  Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.

The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier free hiring process. Please respect our scent free area by not wearing scented products when visiting the office.