Job Summary

This position is responsible and accountable for managing the staff, materials and equipment required to provide parks and open space and cemetery maintenance services within the City of Saskatoon.  

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plans, assigns, supervises and evaluates the work of professional and technical staff who provide park and open space and cemetery services. Responsible for performance management and disciplinary action when required
• Manages assigned staff, hires, assigns work schedules, assesses staffing needs, identifies layoff and recall requirements, and pursues other resources if necessary.  Plans and approves staff development.  
• Assists with the preparation of and monitors the operating and capital budgets for the Sport Fields, Irrigation and Cemetery programs including annual reporting of section activities and recommends available resources for allocation.
• Prepares and evaluates specifications and calls for tender for parks, open space, Sports Fields, Irrigation and cemetery materials and maintenance services as required.
• Provides oversight for the development and implementation of customer service and public relations programs, including acting as liaison with the local media.
• Provides support to assigned committees by attending meetings, sharing subject matter expertise, preparing reports and coordinating projects.
• Reviews and responds to public, councillors, staff, and civic Department concerns by providing policy and procedure information and technical advice about park and open space and cemetery services.
• Prepares comprehensive reports and correspondence, including the development of management and business plans, and Council reports.
• Represents the Parks Department in the planning and coordination of internal and external development projects that may impact parks, open space and cemetery areas.  
• Acts as a liaison with public interest groups and community organizations regarding parks and open space and cemetery services.
• Conducts safety audits and prepares written reports using Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (C.P.T.E.D.) guidelines.
• Reviews and provides direction and expertise for the development and adherence to Civic policies related to parks and open space and cemetery services.
• 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 and staff health and safety.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience Requirements

• University degree in parks administration, turf management, horticulture, forestry, or related discipline OR graduation from a recognized two-year diploma in horticulture along with a Business Administration Certificate or recognized equivalent.
• Four to six years’ progressively responsible experience in a parks maintenance or related field, including supervisory experience.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within one year, 2nd Generation - Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (C.P.T.E.D) certification.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver's Licence.
• Current driver’s abstract from SGI demonstrating a safe driving record.
• A vehicle suitable for use in the performance of duties is required

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

• Knowledge and understanding of practices, principles and equipment specific to commercial irrigation systems, landscape construction, sport field maintenance, turf management and horticultural components of parks systems.
• Knowledge of plant insect and disease pests and environmentally sustainable control methods.
• Knowledge of administrative practices and procedures which pertain to the preparation and control of budgets, purchasing, tendering, and labour relation procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, including the ability to prepare and present reports.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, direct, co-ordinate, monitor and evaluate the work of staff.
• Demonstrated leadership skills to promote a positive and constructive working environment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with civic staff, civic officials, and the public.
• Ability to evaluate program effectiveness and develop proposals for change of methods and procedures.
• Skill in the use of a computer using Microsoft Suite of applications, Graphical Information Systems (GIS), database applications and asset management tools.