Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Parks Superintendent (Urban Forestry), this position performs a variety of technical, operational and administrative tasks related to mosquito control, tree pest and disease monitoring and the control of nuisance wildlife.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Supervises activities of seasonal technicians and technical assistants involved in monitoring, data collection and control operations.
• Establishes and maintains surveys to monitor mosquito, nuisance wildlife and tree pest populations as well as tree diseases.
• Monitors pest populations to evaluate the overall effectiveness of control operations.
• Collects insect and disease samples from field sites within the Urban Biological Services control area.
• Analyzes and identifies insect and disease samples collected from the field.
• Conducts laboratory rearing and incubation of insect and disease samples.
• Designs and delivers education and awareness programs related to mosquito control and tree pest and disease control for the public and staff.
• Acts as the Dutch Elm disease Inspector for the City.
• Prepares reports relative to the Urban Biological Services program.
• Conducts research into areas of new developments, such as methods, materials etc.
• Provides information to, and resolves enquiries from, the public regarding pest and disease concerns.
• Operates, and performs minor repairs to, a variety of equipment used in mosquito control operations.
• Supports and promotes a safe and positive workplace culture through a variety of initiatives and activities.
• Supports and promotes the health and safety of employees in accordance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act & Regulations in addition to the City of Saskatoon’s Administrative Occupational Health & Safety Policies and departmental procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Training and Experience Requirements:

• Degree in biology or entomology.
• Four years' related experience in pest identification, biology and control methods including experience in a supervisory role.
• Possession of Saskatchewan Mosquito and Biting Fly, Structural and Landscape Pesticide Applicator Permits.
• Possession of a valid, recognized first aid and CPR certificates.
• Possession of a valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Drivers Licence and the ability to use a personal vehicle for travel between worksites.
• Current driver’s abstract from SGI demonstrating a safe driving record.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of insect taxonomy, experimental design, data collection, tree species and tree diseases.
• Ability to understand and apply arboriculture and integrated pest management principles, practices and techniques.
• Ability to monitor, collect, identify and analyse insect and disease samples in field and laboratory environments.
• Ability to maintain records of pest populations and distribution, as well as pesticides used in control operations.
• Ability to read and understand municipal and topographical maps and photographs.
• Ability to operate, and perform minor repairs to, a variety of equipment used in mosquito control operations.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to design and deliver education programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively and sensitively address public concerns and inquiries.
• Ability to participate in job-related education and safety programs and personal health monitoring and testing programs.
• Physical ability to perform the assigned duties.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a computerized/digital environment, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, SAP and mobile device.