Help Shape Calgary’s Next Generation of Affordable Housing

Onward is one of Calgary’s largest and longest-standing affordable housing providers. We currently operate 2,200+ units across the city and are entering a significant period of growth, with plans to nearly double our portfolio over the next 4–7 years through new development, redevelopment, and strategic acquisitions.

Our mission is to create high-quality, affordable homes that strengthen local communities. More than 3,000 residents call an Onward property home, including families, seniors, newcomers, Indigenous residents, and individuals supported by over 50 partner agencies.

As we expand, we are building a modern, high-performing development team to deliver a sustained pipeline of meaningful, city-building projects.

For candidates, this represents a rare opportunity to join a sector defined by long-term stability. Demand for affordable housing remains consistent, supported by public policy and long-term funding frameworks, making Onward’s development pipeline largely insulated from short-term market fluctuations and broader industry slowdowns.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Manager – Urban Planning & Development plays a critical role in advancing Onward’s development portfolio by managing municipal approvals, coordinating multidisciplinary consultant teams, and guiding projects through Calgary’s planning and regulatory processes.

This role is ideal for a planning professional who brings strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and a desire to contribute to impactful, community-focused development.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Approvals

Lead land use, subdivision, and development permit applications
Serve as the primary liaison with the City of Calgary
Review drawings for compliance with planning policies and bylaws
Interpret the MGA, Land Use Bylaw, statutory plans, and guidelines
Coordinate consultants to ensure timely, coordinated submissions

Technical Coordination

Manage approval schedules, matrices, and tracking tools
Conduct zoning and policy due diligence
Support design teams with density, servicing, and access analysis
Coordinate subdivision and servicing approvals

Stakeholder Engagement

Represent Onward at City meetings, Calgary Planning Commission, and public hearings
Engage with community associations and partner agencies

Project Coordination & Reporting

Maintain progress tracking, approval milestones, and risk forecasts
Provide clear and concise updates to senior leadership
Align teams across development, design, engineering, and construction

Policy & Research

Monitor changes to planning policies and standards
Prepare summaries and internal briefs to support strategic decisions

What You Bring

Degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Architecture, or related field
Candidate or Full membership with CIP/APPI
3–7+ years of experience in municipal or private-sector planning
Strong understanding of Calgary’s planning and approvals processes
Ability to interpret technical drawings
Excellent communication, collaboration, and presentation skills

Assets:

Experience with mixed-use, infill, or redevelopment projects
Familiarity with project management or tracking tools

Working Conditions

Office-based role with periodic site visits and occasional evening meetings for public or stakeholder engagements.

Compensation & Benefits

$100,000 – $140,000 salary range
Annual performance bonus opportunity
Comprehensive health & dental benefits
Employer-paid RRSP contributions (up to 7%)
$1,800 annual Health Spending Account
Three weeks’ vacation + five flex days
A collaborative, mission-driven environment with significant growth opportunities

Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to help shape a rapidly expanding organization committed to delivering high-quality, affordable housing to Calgary’s communities.

Apply today and help bring our next generation of homes to life.

Onward

Open Positions

Manager - Urban Planning & Development