Horticulturist/Leadhand 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Supervisor, Parks Services and Horticulture, the Horticulturalist/Leadhand will coordinate and participate in all aspects of horticultural/general maintenance of municipal grounds to ensure they are safe, well maintained and esthetically pleasing. Although primarily responsible for Richmond Green, will also be required to perform maintenance at other sites as required.  This position will also assist with snow removal and assist other sections as required. Identify needs by participating in the annual budget process. Using the electronic work order system (Maximo) to assign and complete daily activities.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and direct horticultural crews (including summer students, temporary labourers, and other full-time staff)
• Identify and carry out training for both full-time and seasonal staff
• Perform various horticultural tasks such as planting, watering, fertilizing, weeding, pruning, laying sod, etc.
• Keep municipal grounds such as parking lots, roadways, pathways, etc. free of snow and ice
• Conduct the maintenance and operation of the ice skating trail at Richmond Green
• Inspect work areas at job completion
• Assist other Departments, Divisions, groups or organizations, as required, including special events
• Aavailable for winter standby to assist the City with winter control in a leadership capacity
• Shift work and/or overtime maybe required from time to time
• Monitor and inspect completed work for quality and ensure levels of service are being met. Take corrective action to rectify work that is not completed satisfactorily.
• Maintain inventories to populate budget and seasonal orders
• Review and provide comments on new park development
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• College Diploma in Horticulture, or a related discipline
• Exterminators Land Class 1 and 3 Licence
• Pesticides Licence
• Minimum 2 years’ horticultural experience ideally in a municipal setting, complemented by previous leadership experience

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Ability to operate various pieces of equipment, including heavy equipment
• Working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers and the public
• Ontario Class "DZ" Driver’s License in good standing and must provide a satisfactory current Drivers Abstract from the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO)
• Requires satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check
• Demonstrates good judgment and makes sound decisions
• Shows commitment to personal growth, development, and leadership opportunities
• Shares new ideas and challenges the status quo
• Proven written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with honesty, openness, respect, and trust
• Takes initiative to participate in a culture of learning, mentoring, and sharing
• Contributes to building and being a part of a positive culture
• Demonstrate the City’s corporate values of care, collaboration, courage and service

Leadership Competencies