Agriculture, Environment

Agriculture, Environment & Parks Assistant

Municipal District of Bighorn

About the Municipal District of Bighorn:

The Municipal District of Bighorn No. 8 is a rural municipality located in a beautiful natural setting. A community of unique communities, the MD is characterized by ranching and other agricultural uses, industrial uses, low impact tourism facilities, hamlets, and large tracts of undeveloped crown land reserved for forestry activities. It is recognized that the quality of life of our residents is tied to a healthy, natural environment and a robust economy.

Why work for us?

• Competitive Salary
• Health Benefits
• Pension
• Wellness Spending Account
• Paid Vacation and Personal Days
• Work/Life Balance
• Compressed Work Week (EDO)

Summary:

Reporting to the Agriculture, Environment, and Parks Supervisor, this position supports the coordination and delivery of municipal agricultural and environmental programs, including responsibilities under the Agricultural Service Board Act, Weed Control Act, Agricultural Pests Act, and Soil Conservation Act. The role also provides assistance with the MD's parks‑related operations and maintenance.

Hours of Work:

Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Flexibility required.

Salary:

Starting at $ 87,174.81

Duties and Responsibilities:

Agricultural and Environmental Responsibilities

• Implement weed and pest inspection programs in accordance with Provincial and Federal legislation. Conduct pest surveys and complete corresponding reports.
• Serve as an appointed inspector under the Weed Control Act and Agricultural Pest Act. Issue notices and enforce compliance where required.
• Develop working relationships with residents and support vegetation management planning.
• Apply herbicides on municipal properties and roadways using backpack, quad, roadside, and handgun sprayers. Maintain detailed herbicide application records.
• Provide residents with guidance on weeds, pests, trees, pasture management, seeding, and horticultural issues. Support public awareness initiatives as prescribed by the Agriculture, Environment, and Parks Supervisor.
• Prepare educational materials, newsletters, and related publications.
• Organize and deliver workshops, demonstrations, and meetings independently or with partner organizations.
• Stay informed on emerging agricultural and environmental issues, programs, and best practices.

Parks Responsibilities

• Perform landscaping tasks, including maintaining flower beds, tree and shrub beds, seeding, and manual weed removal.
• Carry out year‑round parks duties during the absence of Parks Workers.
• Repair and install parks furnishing items.
• Assist staff and act as Supervisor when the Agriculture, Environment, and Parks Supervisor is unavailable.

Asset & Equipment Management

• Maintain and repair or coordinate repair of fleet equipment, parks assets, and small tools.
• Keep detailed maintenance and repair records of equipment.
• Oversee Agriculture and Environment Department equipment, including maintenance schedules, calibrations, and safety compliance for vehicles and trailers.
• Manage the asset register for equipment, vehicles, tools, and herbicide inventory.

Administrative Support

• Respond to public inquiries and complaints.
• Assist in facilitating training of seasonal staff to ensure operational competency and regulatory compliance.
• Assist in developing and implementing programs, policies, and procedures in collaboration with Supervisor when the Agriculture, Environment, and Parks Supervisor.
• Carry out departmental responsibilities—including staff supervision, program delivery, and public relations—in the absence of the Agriculture, Environment, and Parks Supervisor.
• Adhere to corporate policies, procedures, guidelines, and health and safety requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Agricultural Science, Environmental Sciences or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Working knowledge of the Weed Control, Agricultural Service Board, Agricultural Pests and Soil Conservation Acts.
• 2 (two) years of related experience in a vegetation management environment.
• Industrial, Agriculture, and Landscape Alberta Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain the license once hired.
• Demonstrates strong agricultural knowledge, including proficiency in identifying native and invasive plant species.
• Possesses, or has the ability to obtain, the Agricultural Fieldman Certificate of Qualification from the Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldmen.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and repairing small equipment such as quads, sprayers, chainsaws, and mowers.
• Demonstrated strong organizational, time management, coordinating, and prioritizing skills, and the ability to handle many tasks concurrently.
• Effective interpersonal, customer service, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications, GPS, and GIS technology.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings and some evening and weekends.
• Valid Class 5 Alberta Driver's license or higher.
• Clean Driver's Abstract and negative Criminal Record check.
• Ability to do manual labor, work outdoors in all weather conditions and lift 50 lbs.

Application Deadline & Submission:

Open until suitable candidate is found.

Submit your application with a resume and cover letter to Laure Wanlin:

The Municipal District of Bighorn is committed to building a workplace where everyone can succeed and belong. We are an equal opportunity employer which fosters an inclusive work environment for current and prospective employees.

We value a wide range of skills, experiences, and backgrounds and encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We are working to eliminate barriers for applicants and team members from equity-seeking groups. If you cannot apply online or need an accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From $87,174.81 per year

Work Location: In person