Conservation Officer

Are you passionate about working with Regional and Community Parks compliance programs? If so, we want you on our Parks Services Team

As the successful candidate as Conservation Officer & Trails Team Lead, you will be responsible for delivering the Regional and Community Parks regulatory and compliance programs. You will assist with emergency response coordination, wildlife - human conflict management issues, public safety, maintenance of parks and trails, and protecting our parks natural and cultural resources.

You will:

1. Ensure Park visitor safety through the implementation of the Regional and Community Parks compliance programs including patrolling parks on foot, motorized and non-motorized vehicles, watercraft, bicycle, all-terrain vehicles or by other appropriate means.
2. Provide public education and persuasion techniques to gain voluntary compliance
3. Provide information on the interpretation and application of the Regional and Community Parks Regulatory Bylaws.
4. Collaborate and cooperate with other regulatory agencies and local government organizations to gain compliance with all applicable regulations and laws on RDCO parkland.
5. Collaborate and cooperate with user groups, volunteers, park ambassadors and community organizations to address park issues specific to RDCO park regulations, public safety and security.
6. Conduct investigations regarding park encroachments and trespasses.
7. Respond and investigate public complaints and incidents.
8. Resolve recurring offences and escalated issues identified by other Parks staff relating to conflict, enforcement, and infraction situations in RDCO parks.
9. Maintain notes of investigations and statistics pertaining to enforcement, education, and compliance.
10. Assist in the preparation of cases for trial and prosecution in court on behalf of the RDCO and as assigned, testify for the RDCO in legal proceedings and consult with legal counsel.
11. Coordinate traffic & crowd control in RDCO Parks as required.
12. Assist in the development, coordination and delivery of Regional Parks Emergency Response and Evacuation Plans as well as the delivery of the Regional Parks Wildlife Human Conflict Prevention Plan.
13. Undertake routine park operations and maintenance duties, including garbage removal and cleaning washrooms, facilities and infrastructure.
14. Conduct Park and facility safety and condition inspections on a regularly scheduled basis, including hazard tree inspections, trails inspections and risk assessments.

We are looking for someone who has at least one year experience in Parks, or an equivalent public sector environment, where they enforced bylaws and regulations, completed training construction and leading a small team. You will preferably have a Diploma in parks of environmental conservation resource management. You will have completed the Bylaws Compliance, Enforcement & Investigation Skills 1 course, Wildlife Danger Tree Assessor Certification - Parks and Recreation Module, and Chain Saw Operation Certification You will also possess a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) and a valid BC class 5 drivers license. In addition, you will have working knowledge of WorkSafe BC regulations and safe work practices, the ability to maintain effective relationships, strong tact and diplomacy skills, and an excellent ability to mitigate and de-escalate conflict.

This is a CUPE 338 position that requires commitment to a flexible work schedule. This position is full time, 40 hours per week. Work shifts will either be Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday. This position pays $36.38 per hour.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan offers a variety of perks from dental, health and vision benefits, paid vacation, pension plan, training and development, opportunities for advancement, work-life balance, on-site parking, and the opportunity to contribute and make a change within the community.

View the full job description and apply at rdco.com/jobs. This position will close on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is an employer of choice made up of a dedicated team of people who care about the community we serve. We are located in one of the most desirable places to live in BC, in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. The appeal of Okanagan Lake and the natural beauty of the surroundings continue to draw people to the valley. Our lifestyle is second to none especially for those who live to enjoy the outdoors.