Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Cemetery Technician 14, this position is required to take a working supervisory role in all aspects of cemetery operations. This position also performs a variety of routine to semi-skilled horticultural and turf tasks.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Operates a one-ton dump-truck, backhoe/front-end loader and a skid-steer loader in carrying out all aspects of interment and disinterment service.
2. Locates and verifies graves for interments, disinterments, and for monument installations.
3. Prepares graves by installing outer receptacles, placing grave frames, placing grave greens and setting of the lowering device.
4. Assists the public with locating graves as required.
5. Assists with all aspects of horticultural maintenance, monitoring for pests/diseases/weeds and provides recommendations on control, tree planting/care, flower planting/care and turf maintenance.
6. Assist with the scheduling of irrigation for all areas and monitors them to ensure plant requirements are met. Identify and report any irrigation issues.
7. Constructs new planting beds in accordance with designs and monitors existing beds and makes recommendations for renovations.
8. Operates all types of park maintenance and tree maintenance equipment and instructs staff in proper operating and maintenance techniques.
9. Assists with the supervision and training of assigned staff.
10. Supports and promotes the health and safety of employees and the general public in accordance with the Saskatchewan Employment Act, Saskatchewan Health Regulations and Standards, Occupational Health & Safety Regulations and the City of Saskatoon’s administrative Occupational Health & Safety policies and departmental procedures. Maintains and monitors programs which affect public health and safety.
11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education.
• Three years’ progressively responsible experience in grounds maintenance or related field, including one-year supervising staff.
• Three years’ experience in operating heavy machinery. Successful completion of backhoe / skid steer training within three months of hire.
• Successful completion of three recognized core courses from a recognized horticulture diploma program, e.g. Ontario Diploma of Horticulture.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within three months after date of hire, the appropriate Saskatchewan Pesticide Applicator Permits.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, within one year after date of hire, a valid first aid certificate.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver's Licence.
• Current driver’s abstract from SGI demonstrating a safe driving record.
• Ability to understand and apply horticultural principles, practices and techniques.
• Ability to understand written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work with minimum supervision.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-worker and assigned staff.
• Ability to deal courteously, tactfully, and sensitively with customers within death-care industry.
• Physical ability to perform the assigned duties in adverse weather conditions.

Additional Requirements

Weekend work is involved, shift work may be involved