Invasive Species Technician / Weed Inspector

Division/Department:

Parks & Forestry/Parks, Recreation & Facilities

Reports to:

Supervisor of Parks and Forestry

Location:

Various City locations

Hours: 

40 hours/week; Monday to Friday, Overtime and On-Call as required.

Union Affiliation:

CUPE Local 35

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Supervisor of Parks and Forestry or designate, is responsible for the identification, inventory, monitoring and/or removal of invasive species and collection of data. This position also acts as the City’s Municipal Weed Inspector and maintains the park service area infrastructure to approved operational standards.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Applies designated pesticides and/or herbicides for invasive species and crack and crevice weed control on city owned boulevards, parking lots, traffic islands, sports fields (warning tracks, fence lines) and other related parkland.
2. Acts as the City’s Municipal Weed Inspector, providing information on and identifying Noxious or Invasive Weeds for the city and the public, providing solutions on control and enforcement of the Weed Control Act as required.
3. Records and maintains accurate records of applied pesticides and herbicides. Notifies the public of control methods, prior to application, when pesticides and/or herbicides are being applied.
4. Applies for and provides necessary documentation to the Ministry of Environment/Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, as required.
5. Orders product needed to perform weed control tasks.
6. Responds professionally and courteously to inquiries from the public regarding invasive species.
7. Assists with the implementation of invasive species management projects on public lands, including invasive wildlife species control in cooperation with provincial and federal standards and legislation.
8. Participates in the operations of horticulture, turf, athletic field, and forestry maintenance, as required.
9. Provides technical guidance and direction to temporary seasonal staff.
10. Uses hand and power tools as well as light trucks, turf maintenance equipment, spray equipment, front-end loaders, and tractors, as required.
11. Performs minor maintenance to buildings, equipment and tools as required.
12. Directs seasonal staff including assigning, scheduling and verifying onsite work, providing training in departmental and horticultural policies and practices.
13. Performs other such related duties, responsibilities and functions as may be assigned.

Note: The major tasks and responsibilities outlined above are representative but not all-inclusive.  All activities are expected to be performed in a safe manner in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its Regulations along with Corporate Safety policies, procedures and programs.  In addition, all necessary personal protective equipment must be used and maintained in good condition. This position must be compliant with all provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, related to “Duties of a Supervisor” and “Duties of a Worker.”

Education/Experience/Skill

Qualifications

Ontario Secondary School Graduation Diploma.

Diploma from a recognized horticulture program (two-year program) or equivalent.

Must have or obtain and maintain multiple Exterminator Licences including but not limited to Industrial Vegetation, Forestry and Landscape classes.

Experience

Two (2) years’ related experience in the field of invasive species/weed inspector/urban ecosystem and/or horticulture.

Experience with vegetation management is required.  

Computerized spraying equipment experience is considered an asset.

Knowledge/Skill/Abilities

1. Strong plant identification skills with a good understanding of agricultural practices.
2. Effective customer service, public relations and communication skills (verbal and written) to work with diverse groups of individuals and the ability to deal with residents in challenging situations.
3. Ability to work alone under minimal supervision.
4. Must be computer literate including knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
5. Ability to exchange information, receive and understand instructions.
6. Must be competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health & Safety Act and the Weed Control Act and be capable of issuing clearly understandable written instructions. 

Driver’s Licence

Ontario Driver’s Abstract required

Must possess a valid “G” Ontario Driver’s Licence and access to reliable transportation

Possession of a valid “DZ” Ontario Driver’s Licence is considered an asset

Other

Chainsaw Certification is considered an asset

Corporate Orientation and Health & Safety Training

Valid First Aid/CPR

Satisfactory Police Records Check

Working Conditions

1. Required to work outside in all weather conditions and varying temperatures.
2. Must have physical capability to carry out the essential duties of the position including walking on areas of rough terrain.
3. Exposure to hazardous materials.
4. Required to work beyond the normal hours of work.  Must participate in 24 hour on-call duty on a rotational basis, as required.
5. Required to work shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays.