ABOUT US
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.
WHAT WE OFFER
Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.
- Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
- Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
- Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
Associate Counsel (Associate Counsel I) Salary: $131,283 - $154,454
Senior Associate Counsel (Associate Counsel II) Salary: $144,157 - $169-593
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Senior Counsel, is responsible for providing advice on a broad range of legal issues to Regional Council, Committees, departments, corporations, boards and related entities, including advice on development law, development charges, transit, telecommunications, economic development, strategic initiatives, risk management and general municipal law; representing the Region before committees and boards; and negotiating with external stakeholders, landowners, agencies and partners at municipal, provincial and federal levels.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Represents Regional interests in strategic planning and delivery of Regional services and infrastructure, including development and development charges, transit, telecommunications, corporate governance, municipal administration, and financing.Provides advice to Regional departments, municipal services corporations, and related entities on a variety of legal issues including commercial, contractual, corporate governance and jurisdictional issues, legislation, regulation and policies.
- Represents the Region, boards and corporations, in negotiations and dispute resolution.
- Prepares Committee and Council Reports and advises Senior Management on legal implications of departmental initiatives.
- Evaluates claims, identifies available legal options and assists in developing risk management strategies.
- Retains and instructs external counsel, consultants and other professional advisors.
- Manages relationships with external stakeholders, Regional and local municipal Councils, municipal staff, external government and non-governmental agencies, and the communities served.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- Successful completion of a University Degree in Law (L.L.B.) or Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.).
- Membership in good standing as a Lawyer in the Law Society of Ontario.
- Associate Counsel: Minimum one to three (1-3) years general and/or specialized experience in the area of Development Law, Infrastructure Law, and/or Municipal Law, with preference given to managing complaints and appeals under the Development Charges Act and Planning Act, the negotiation of site plan approvals, development charge agreements, servicing or transit delivery and/or telecommunications agreements.
- Senior Associate Counsel: Minimum five (5) years advanced expertise in the area of Development Law, Infrastructure Law, and/or Municipal Law, with preference given to managing complaints and appeals under the Development Charges Act and Planning Act, the negotiation of site plan approvals, development charge agreements, servicing or transit delivery and/or telecommunications agreements.
- Demonstrated knowledge of and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer service, communication, team work, initiative/self-management and accountability, and flexibility/adaptability.
- Effective interpersonal and presentation skills to interact with members of Regional Council and staff of Regional departments, corporations, boards and other government agencies.
- Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software applications.
- Proven analytical and decision making skills.
- Ability to exercise appropriate judgement and discretion in dealing with privileged or controversial matters.
- Demonstrated political acumen and ability to negotiate, facilitate, mediate and present information to a varied audience.
- Ability to work outside normal business hours as required.
