Leadhand Forestry

**Job Details**:
**Permanent Full Time (CUPE 136)**:
**Posting Status**:
**Open to all current Town of Oakville employees and external applicants**:
**Closing Date**:
**Applications for this position must be received at **oakville.ca** **by no later than 11:59 pm on **April 27, 2023.***:
This position primarily reports to the Supervisor of Woodlands and Parks Tree Operations. Dependent on operational requirements there may be times when the position will report to the other Supervisors within Forestry Services.

**Responsibilities**:

- Assist the Supervisor in the planning and scheduling of all resources necessary to carry out work programs in Forestry Services Section. Assist with the supervision and work carried out by Forestry crews and contractors, to ensure it is performed effectively and efficiently and in accordance with Town and/or Departmental maintenance standards, as well as other legislated requirements (e.g. Labour Regulations, Safety Regulations, Traffic Control, etc.).
- Complete formal audits on internal staff, contractors as well as audits of work completed.
- Keep the Supervisor informed of all on-going activities; make suggestions for changes in work methods and/or equipment utilization that will increase efficiency.
- Give clear and concise direction to members of the work crews, while working with the crews in the execution of assigned activities.
- Operate specialized equipment, at times in proximity to hydro lines, including aerial bucket trucks, chippers, chain saws, skid steer, stumper and standard tree climbing equipment where required in a safe and efficient manner.
- Perform tree risk assessment, create work order for tree planting and maintenance, planning tree watering schedule for students, and propose tree planting and replacement for street and park trees. Assessments and work order creation includes any and all Town-owned trees.
- Communicate tree planting, removal and maintenance with other departments and residents.
- Lead urban forest technicians, stumping crews and summer students.
- Maintain accurate daily tracking, reporting, record keeping and documentation of activities and weather conditions including Tree Maintenance Work Orders and Work Area Protection Plans.
- Ensure all equipment is operated safely and competently and that all equipment is maintained in a good operating condition. Ensure that proper and timely documentation is completed to repair defective equipment, reported either on the job or through circle checks of all assigned rolling stock.
- Investigate and respond to inquiries/complaints from the general public, emergency services, other departments, senior management and members of Town Council.
- Assist in recruitment, training, instruction and documentation (training records) of new and existing staff to perform their respective job functions in a safe manner, including the proper use of tools and equipment.
- Represent the Corporation and Department in a professional, courteous and respectful manner in all dealings with the public, other groups, agencies and individuals.
- Perform the role of a Stand-in Supervisor on occasions when the Supervisor is not available.
- Will be required to be on stand-by to perform emergency arboricultural work, on a rotational shift, throughout the year.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

**Qualifications**:

- A certificate or Diploma in urban forestry/arboriculture from a recognized institution.
- Minimum of five (5) years progressively responsible/complex arboriculture experience preferably in a municipal Forestry operation.
- A valid Safety in Line Clearing Certificate from the Electrical Utility Safety Association and Crane Operator (0-8 tons) certificate, as well as a certificate in the Trade of Arborist (Provincial designation) are required.
- Certified Arborist designation by the International Society of Arboriculture
- Certified Tree Worker designation by International Society of Arboriculture is an asset.
- Flexibility in adjusting between a variety of duties and ability to work with mínimal supervision and as part of a team in addition to possessing an understanding of the Highway Traffic Act and knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

**DATED**:April 13, 2023**:
**We thank all applicants and advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.**: