Planning & Design Technologist 2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Planning & Design Technologist 2

Company: FortisBC

Location: Burnaby, BC, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time Regular

Category: Operations - Planning & Design (Energy Sector)

Date Posted: August 28, 2026

Experience Level: 4+ Years Relevant Experience

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for end-to-end planning and design of gas supply installation projects for residential and commercial customers, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures.

• Coordinates with builders, developers, and internal stakeholders to define project scope, gather requirements, and produce accurate customer contracts and work orders.

• Analyzes utility data, land-base considerations, and geographical factors to create detailed engineering drawings and work procedures, ensuring compliance with FortisBC standards and regulations.

• Manages customer relations by acting as the primary point of contact, explaining complex processes, policies, and regulations, and ensuring satisfaction with installation costs and schedules.

• Provides technical direction and support to Planning and Design Technicians and Operations Support Representatives, fostering a collaborative team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while not strictly "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" in the traditional software/SaaS sense, is deeply embedded in operational efficiency and customer-facing project execution within the energy utility sector. The "Planning & Design Technologist" title signifies a critical operational function that directly impacts project delivery, customer satisfaction, and cost management, aligning with core operational principles of process optimization and resource allocation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Project Planning & Scope Definition:

  • Coordinate and manage gas supply installation projects from initial customer contact through to completion.
  • Define customer requirements, project scope, and service product specifications.
  • Conduct site visits and attend meetings with customers and their agents to gather necessary information.
  • Ensure all service product and permit requirements are collected and communicated effectively.

• Contract & Pricing Management:

  • Utilize established service, product definitions, and pricing models to generate accurate customer contracts.
  • Perform detailed estimates and utilize economic test tools to determine installation pricing.
  • Clearly explain FortisBC pricing, rate processes, and associated regulations to customers.

• Technical Design & Documentation:

  • Review utility data, legal land-base, and geographical information to determine optimal gas layout and depth in accordance with FortisBC standards.
  • Draft written work procedures (per company standard OHS 03-14) for manager review and approval.
  • Complete electronic layouts or engineering drawings, confirming and updating pipe sizing as defined by System Planning.
  • Identify and requisition required inventoried materials and manufactured items.

• Customer & Stakeholder Relations:

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with current, repeat, and potential customers, as well as external contacts.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for premium-rated builders/developers and internal/external customers.
  • Respond professionally to customer inquiries regarding installation costs, bill calculations, and work scheduling.
  • Explain FortisBC processes, procedures, policies, and relevant municipal, provincial, and federal regulations to customers.

• Operational Support & Issue Resolution:

  • Schedule work with customers by checking crew availability and capacity planning information.

  • Coordinate and attend meetings with customers and their agents.

  • Respond to operational and maintenance issues, including overbuilds, meter consolidations, meter protection, commercial/industrial meter upgrades, corrosion maintenance, and main/valve adjustments.

  • Provide direction and guidance to Planning and Design Technicians and Operations Support Representatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project management, customer service, and operational problem-solving. The emphasis on "processes, procedures, and requirements" and "economic test tools" indicates a strong focus on operational efficiency and adherence to established workflows, which are critical in a regulated utility environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Technology diploma from an accredited post-secondary institution in a directly related field (e.g., Civil Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, or similar). Must be registered or eligible for registration with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC).

Experience: A minimum of four (4) years of directly related, relevant work experience in utility planning, design, or a closely related technical field.

Required Skills:

• Project Coordination & Management: Proven ability to coordinate complex projects, manage multiple tasks, and prioritize effectively under pressure.

• Technical Design & Drafting: Proficiency in creating electronic layouts, engineering drawings, and detailed work procedures (familiarity with CAD software is highly beneficial).

• Gas Infrastructure Knowledge: Understanding of gas supply systems, utility data analysis, land-base considerations, and relevant safety standards (e.g., OHS 03-14).

• Customer Relationship Management: Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills for effectively managing customer interactions and expectations.

• Systems Proficiency: Working knowledge of computer systems, including SAP and the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to interpret technical data, identify issues, and develop sound, cost-effective solutions.

• Decision-Making: Ability to make sound decisions considering costs, risks, operability, and safety implications.

• Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational abilities to manage workload, meet tight deadlines, and work independently.

• Regulatory Acumen: Understanding of municipal, provincial, and federal regulations relevant to utility infrastructure projects.

• Driver's License: Valid Class 5 British Columbia Driver’s license.

Preferred Skills:

• ASTTBC Registration: Current registration with ASTTBC.

• Capacity Planning Tools: Experience with capacity planning software or methodologies.

• Economic Modeling: Familiarity with economic test tools for installation pricing.

• Subdivision Design Experience: Specific experience with vertical subdivision designs.

• Utility Project Lifecycle: In-depth understanding of the full project lifecycle for utility infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for ASTTBC registration and the specific mention of "OHS 03-14" and "SAP" are critical details. The experience level of 4+ years directly relates to the "Technologist 2" designation, suggesting a need for demonstrated competence and problem-solving capabilities beyond entry-level.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 detailed examples of gas supply installation projects planned and designed. Each case study should illustrate:

  • Initial customer requirements and project scope definition.
  • Challenges encountered (e.g., site constraints, regulatory hurdles, material availability).
  • The technical design process, including any drawings or layout plans created.
  • Cost estimation and pricing justification using economic principles.
  • Problem-solving approaches and final solutions implemented.
  • Positive customer outcomes and relationship management.

• Process Documentation Samples: Include examples of work procedures or documentation created, demonstrating adherence to standards like OHS 03-14. Highlight any contributions to process improvement or standardization.

• System Utilization Examples: Briefly describe how you have utilized SAP and MS Office Suite (Excel, Word) for project planning, data management, or reporting in previous roles. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Reduced data entry time by X% using Excel macros").

• Regulatory Compliance Examples: Demonstrate understanding of how you ensured compliance with relevant regulations in your project planning and design work.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of understanding and implementing established workflows for project initiation, planning, design, and scheduling.

• Standards Adherence: Demonstrated ability to follow company standards, safety regulations (OHS), and technical specifications in all documentation and design work.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Examples of how data (utility, geographical, financial) was analyzed to inform design decisions and pricing, and how reports were generated for internal and external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a technologist role focused on planning and design, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills in real-world projects is crucial. It should highlight both technical proficiency and the ability to manage the operational aspects of project delivery, including customer interaction and regulatory compliance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the provided bi-weekly salary of $3,478.00, the annual salary for this role is approximately $90,428 CAD. This range is competitive for a Technologist 2 position in the Burnaby, BC area, considering the required experience and specialized skills in the energy utility sector.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Annual salary of approximately $90,428 CAD.

• Short-Term Incentive: Eligible for a short-term incentive program (details not specified, but common in such roles).

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: (Assumed based on industry standards for a Full-Time Regular position) Likely includes health and dental coverage, life insurance, and disability insurance.

• Pension Plan: FortisBC typically offers a defined benefit or defined contribution pension plan for regular employees.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation entitlement, paid sick days, and statutory holidays.

• Career Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and advancement within the organization.

• Volunteer Opportunities: Encouragement and support for employees to engage in community volunteerism.

• Workplace Flexibility: While this specific posting indicates "Workplace Flexibility: No," it's important to note that FortisBC often offers hybrid or flexible arrangements for other roles. For this position, the expectation is on-site presence.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. The "Workplace Flexibility: No" indicates a standard on-site work schedule without options for remote work or significant schedule deviations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary was calculated based on the provided bi-weekly figure. Benefits are inferred based on typical offerings for a "Full-Time Regular" position at a large utility company in Canada, especially one recognized as a "Top Employer." The "Workplace Flexibility: No" is a direct indicator for the on-site expectation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Utility (Natural Gas, Electricity, Renewable Energy, Propane). FortisBC is a major player in British Columbia's energy sector, serving over 1.3 million customers. This context means the company operates within a highly regulated environment, emphasizing safety, reliability, and customer service.

Company Size: Over 2,700 employees. This indicates a large, established organization with structured processes, diverse departments, and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: Over 100 years of knowledge and experience. This history suggests a stable company with deep expertise and a strong foundation in the energy industry.

Team Structure:

• Department: Gas Branch.

• Reporting: The Planning & Design Technologist 2 likely reports to a Manager of Gas Planning & Design or a similar supervisory role.

• Team Composition: The role involves directing and collaborating with Planning and Design Technicians and Operations Support Representatives, indicating a team-oriented structure with clear hierarchies for technical and support functions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role requires extensive collaboration with internal departments such as System Planning, Operations, and potentially Engineering, as well as external stakeholders like builders, developers, municipal authorities, and utility companies.

Methodology:

• Safety First: As a utility, safety is paramount. All planning and design must adhere to stringent safety regulations and standards (e.g., OHS 03-14).

• Customer-Centricity: The role emphasizes understanding and meeting customer needs, explaining complex processes, and ensuring satisfaction, reflecting a customer-focused operational approach.

• Process Adherence: Operations are guided by established policies, procedures, and product definitions to ensure consistency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Analysis of utility data, land-base information, and economic factors informs design choices and pricing strategies.

Company Website: https://www.fortisbc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding FortisBC's position as a major, regulated utility is key. This implies a culture that values safety, compliance, long-term planning, and customer service, all of which are critical operational considerations. The "BC's Top Employers" recognition suggests a commitment to employee well-being and development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Technologist 2," indicating an intermediate to advanced level within a technical career path. It requires a solid foundation of education and significant practical experience (4+ years), along with the ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and provide direction to junior staff. It sits above entry-level technician roles and below senior engineer or management positions.

Reporting Structure: The Technologist 2 will report to a manager and will also be responsible for providing guidance and direction to Planning and Design Technicians and Operations Support Representatives. This dual reporting and supervisory aspect signifies a growing leadership responsibility.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on:

• Project Delivery Efficiency: Accurate planning and design minimize rework, delays, and cost overruns.

• Customer Satisfaction: Clear communication, accurate pricing, and timely scheduling contribute to positive customer experiences and strong relationships with builders/developers.

• Safety & Compliance: Adherence to standards ensures the safe and reliable operation of the gas infrastructure.

• Cost Management: Effective use of economic test tools and material requisitioning directly impacts project profitability and company resources.

• Infrastructure Development: Plays a crucial role in expanding and maintaining the natural gas network to meet community growth and customer demand.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Technologist: With continued experience and demonstrated expertise, progression to a Planning & Design Technologist 3 or Senior Technologist role is a likely path, involving more complex projects and potentially greater leadership responsibilities.

• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in specific areas, such as complex subdivision designs, industrial projects, or system maintenance planning.

• Transition to Project Management: The project coordination and customer management aspects of this role can serve as a strong foundation for moving into dedicated project management roles within FortisBC.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into supervisory or team lead positions, managing a team of technologists and support staff.

• Further Technical Certifications: Encouragement to pursue advanced certifications or professional development relevant to the energy sector or specific engineering technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Technologist 2" designation, coupled with the responsibility to direct others, points to a role with significant growth potential. This is not just a technical execution role but one that involves problem-solving, stakeholder management, and early leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. The job description explicitly states "Workplace Flexibility: No," indicating a requirement to work from a FortisBC office location in Burnaby, BC.

Office Location(s): Burnaby, British Columbia. This is a major urban center with good transportation links. Specific office address details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While the role involves independent work and analysis, there are significant opportunities for collaboration through meetings with customers, internal teams (System Planning, Operations), and directing junior staff.

• Tools & Technology: The workspace will be equipped with the necessary tools for technical design, including computers with access to SAP and the MS Office Suite. Access to relevant engineering software and potentially GIS systems for land-base analysis is expected.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with a team of fellow technologists, technicians, and support staff within the Gas Branch, fostering knowledge sharing and peer support.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday to Friday, is expected. Given the "Workplace Flexibility: No" and the nature of utility operations, there might be occasional requirements for work outside standard hours for urgent operational issues, though this is not explicitly stated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement is firm. Candidates should expect a traditional office environment conducive to focused technical work and collaborative team interactions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: While not explicitly detailed, a typical process for a role like this at FortisBC would likely involve:

• Initial Application Screening: Review of resume and cover letter for required qualifications and experience.

• HR/Recruiter Screening Call: A brief call to assess basic fit, salary expectations, and confirm key requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion about experience, technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. This is where your portfolio may be discussed.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Potentially a technical assessment or a case study scenario related to planning and designing a gas installation project. This would test analytical skills, process knowledge, and ability to articulate solutions.

• Team/Peer Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues or team members to assess cultural fit and collaborative style.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior management, followed by a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by the phases of the project lifecycle (Planning, Design, Execution, Customer Interaction).

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact. For example, "Managed a portfolio of 15+ projects concurrently," or "Reduced average design time by 10% through process improvements."

• Highlight Problem-Solving: For each project, clearly articulate the challenges faced and the specific steps taken to overcome them.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Include examples of drawings, layouts, or procedural documents. Clearly label what you created and the tools used.

• Emphasize Customer Interaction: Provide examples of how you managed customer expectations, communicated complex information, and resolved issues to ensure satisfaction.

• Tailor to FortisBC: Reference FortisBC's standards (like OHS 03-14) and demonstrate an understanding of the utility environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions like: "How would you approach planning a gas line installation for a new multi-unit residential development with challenging site conditions?" or "A builder is requesting a rush installation for a large commercial property; how would you manage this request considering crew availability and material lead times?"

• Process Walkthroughs: Be ready to walk through your typical process for handling a routine project request, from initial inquiry to work order creation.

• Technical Knowledge: Review concepts related to gas distribution systems, civil/utility engineering principles, and relevant safety regulations.

• SAP & MS Office: Be prepared to discuss your experience with SAP for project management and how you leverage MS Office tools for efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio for this role suggests that practical, demonstrable experience is highly valued. Candidates should prepare specific examples that align with the core responsibilities and requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SAP: Essential for enterprise resource planning, likely used for project management, work order tracking, material management, and customer data. Proficiency is a key requirement.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: For data analysis, detailed estimates, financial modeling (economic tests), and reporting. Advanced Excel skills are highly beneficial.
  • Word: For drafting work procedures, customer communications, and official documentation.
  • Outlook: For email communication and calendar management.
  • PowerPoint: Potentially used for internal presentations or client meetings.

• CAD Software: While not explicitly named, proficiency with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is implied for creating electronic layouts and engineering drawings. Examples include AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar industry-standard tools.

• GIS Systems: Potentially used for analyzing land-base, utility data, and geographical information.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal FortisBC Systems: Likely proprietary or integrated systems for capacity planning, crew scheduling, and material inventory management.

• Reporting Tools: Utilizing SAP and Excel to generate reports on project status, costs, and performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• SAP CRM Module: FortisBC likely uses SAP's CRM functionalities for managing customer data, service requests, and interactions.

• Workflow Automation (Limited): While not a primary focus, understanding how to optimize workflows within SAP or using Excel for task automation would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: SAP proficiency is a critical technical requirement for many operational roles in large enterprises like FortisBC. The ability to leverage MS Office for data analysis and reporting is also paramount. Familiarity with CAD/GIS is a strong plus for a design technologist role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety: A paramount value, embedded in all planning, design, and execution activities. Operations professionals are expected to prioritize safety for themselves, colleagues, and the public.

• Reliability: Ensuring the consistent and dependable delivery of energy services is fundamental. This translates to meticulous planning and execution to minimize disruptions.

• Customer Focus: Commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs, providing clear communication, and fostering positive relationships, particularly with key stakeholders like builders and developers.

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: Operating within established processes and utilizing economic tools to deliver projects within budget and on time.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and regulatory compliance in all business dealings.

• Teamwork: Collaborative approach to problem-solving and project execution, working effectively within the Gas Branch and across departments.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expectation to work closely with various departments (System Planning, Operations, Field Crews, Customer Service) to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Process Review & Improvement: While adherence to existing standards is key, there's likely an openness to feedback and suggestions for improving processes and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement to share expertise, especially for more experienced technologists guiding junior staff, and to learn from colleagues.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive communication and engagement with external partners (builders, developers, regulators) to build strong working relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: FortisBC's values, as reflected in its operations, emphasize a structured, safety-conscious, and customer-oriented approach. Collaboration is essential, but it operates within a framework of established procedures and regulatory requirements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Demands: Juggling multiple projects with varying deadlines, customer expectations, and technical complexities simultaneously.

• Navigating Regulations: Keeping abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving municipal, provincial, and federal regulations impacting utility infrastructure.

• Site-Specific Constraints: Dealing with unique geographical, environmental, or existing infrastructure challenges during the planning and design phase.

• Material & Resource Availability: Managing project timelines based on the availability of specific materials, specialized equipment, and skilled crew capacity.

• Customer Communication: Effectively explaining technical details, costs, and timelines to diverse customer groups, including those with limited technical backgrounds.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in gas infrastructure design, CAD software, and related engineering principles.

• Project Management Skills: Development through hands-on experience managing projects and potentially formal training in project management methodologies.

• Industry Best Practices: Staying current with advancements in utility design, construction techniques, and regulatory changes through internal training and industry resources.

• Leadership Training: For those interested in advancing, opportunities to develop leadership and team management skills.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning about other areas of FortisBC's operations through collaboration and potential rotational assignments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for operational roles in infrastructure development, requiring strong problem-solving and adaptability. The growth opportunities align with a career path focused on technical expertise and potential leadership within the energy sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your process for prioritizing competing project demands from different developers. How do you ensure all requirements are met while maintaining efficiency?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to outline a systematic approach, mentioning tools like SAP, Excel for tracking, and clear communication protocols. Discuss how you'd assess project urgency and resource availability.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you handle a situation where a developer disagrees with the proposed gas installation plan or cost? Walk me through your communication strategy."

  • Preparation: Emphasize active listening, empathy, clear explanation of FortisBC policies and technical rationale, and willingness to explore feasible alternatives. Use an example from your experience.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a project where unforeseen site conditions (e.g., existing underground utilities not on record) are discovered during the design phase. What steps would you take?"

  • Preparation: Detail your diagnostic process, involving utility locating services, internal experts, potential design modifications, cost/schedule impact assessment, and client communication. Highlight your analytical and decision-making skills. Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "What do you understand about FortisBC's role as a major energy provider in BC, and how does that influence the operational approach to planning and design?"

  • Preparation: Research FortisBC's mission, values, and its position in the BC energy market. Connect this to the importance of safety, reliability, and customer service in your role.

• Team Dynamics: "Describe your experience working in a team environment where you also had to provide direction to junior members. How do you ensure effective collaboration and task completion?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, how you delegate, provide feedback, and foster a positive team atmosphere. Reference your experience directing Technicians or Support Representatives.

• Operations Impact: "Can you provide an example of how your planning or design work directly contributed to cost savings, improved efficiency, or enhanced customer satisfaction for a previous employer?"

  • Preparation: Prepare a concise case study focusing on measurable outcomes. Quantify results whenever possible. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Overview: Start with a high-level summary of your portfolio and its relevance to the role.

• Deep Dive on Key Projects: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best exemplify the required skills and responsibilities. For each:

  • Clearly state the project goal and your role.
  • Detail the challenges and your approach to solving them.
  • Showcase specific deliverables (drawings, procedures, cost breakdowns).
  • Highlight the outcomes and lessons learned.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, well-organized slides or documents. Ensure drawings are legible.

• Focus on Process: Explain how you achieved results, not just what you achieved. Emphasize your understanding of FortisBC's processes and standards.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your choices, methodologies, and alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the operational aspects of utility project planning and design, combined with excellent communication and problem-solving skills. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the FortisBC careers portal link provided.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience in project planning, gas infrastructure design, SAP usage, and customer relations, using keywords from the job description. If you have a portfolio, ensure it includes relevant case studies demonstrating your technical design work and project coordination skills.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 4+ years of relevant experience, your technology diploma, and your ASTTBC registration status (or eligibility). Quantify achievements where possible to showcase impact.

• Interview Preparation: Review the "Interview Preparation" section above. Practice articulating your experience and problem-solving approach using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with FortisBC's services, values, commitment to safety, and its role in British Columbia. Understand the regulated utility environment and its operational implications.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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