Permanent Full Time
High Prairie Public Works Shop
Reporting to the Executive Director of Public Works, the Agricultural Services Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the Agricultural Services Department, which includes programs such as Vegetation Management, Pest Control, Soil Conservation, Extension Activities and more. In accordance with the ASB Act, this position fulfills the duties of the municipality’s appointed Agricultural Fieldman. Key responsibilities include supervising staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing departmental budgets, and supporting the Agricultural Service Board (ASB) in policy development and advisory functions.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
Supervisory:
· Supervises the Assistant Agricultural Fieldman while supporting them as they oversee and supervise the seasonal staff, including Weed/Pest Inspectors, Sprayer Applicators, Roadside Mower Operators, and contractors.
· Provides training, performance reviews, coaching, and participates in disciplinary actions as needed.
Operational:
- Provide oversight to field operations for Agriculture Services to ensure compliance with all delegated and relevant Provincial legislation (Weed Control Act, Agricultural Pests Act, Soil Conservation Act, Animal Health Act), regulations, permits, approvals, and with County bylaws, policies, and procedures.
- Conduct inspections for agricultural pests, weeds, and soil conservation.
- Maintain a Certified Pesticide Applicator license to assist with vegetation management program.
- Oversees the department's budget and manages all contracted work, including contractors hired for County projects and those engaged through Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks, where the County is contracted by the province or other municipalities to perform work on their behalf.
- Coordinate public meetings and provide information about agricultural programs.
- Assist landowners with agronomic practices and decisions.
Legislative:
· Stay current on provincial legislation and industry changes.
· Support the ASB with policy-setting, advising Council on agricultural issues, and promoting programs for agricultural sustainability.
Administrative:
· Draft reports, agendas, and correspondence for the Executive Director.
- Work collaboratively with local agricultural research organizations—including SARDA, PCBFA, and the Lesser Slave Watershed Council on programs and projects of mutual agreement.
- Oversee the agricultural equipment rental program and maintain records.
- Manage funding applications, tenders, and collaborate with local agricultural organizations.
Additional Duties:
- May be required to train for and participate in any emergency response declared by the County.
- Provide advice and support to other departments on agricultural matters.
- Perform other duties as required.
Education & Experience:
- Post-secondary education in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a combination of equivalent education and experience is required.
· 3-5 years of experience in Agricultural Services, with supervisory experience.
- Pesticide Applicators Certificate (Agriculture, Industrial, and Landscape classes) preferred.
- Predator Control Device Permit (Form 7) an asset.
- Member in good standing with AAAF or the ability to qualify.
· Valid Class 5 driver’s license and clean driver’s abstract.
· First Aid certification is an asset.
· Criminal Record Check required.
Knowledge, Skills & Attributes:
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
· Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to interact and respond to inquiries from ASB, Management, Employees, and Ratepayers.
· Basic accounting and budget management skills.
· Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality.
· Knowledge of pesticide application, weed/crop identification, and mechanically inclined.
· Working knowledge with GPS and GIS systems.
Health & Safety:
· Follow county health and safety policies and procedures
- Must follow all safe job procedures.
· Use appropriate PPE and adhere to safety regulations.
Working Conditions:
· Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions (hot, cold, wet).
· Use of trucks, ATVs, and pesticide equipment.
- Physical job requirements: May require lifting and carrying of up to 23 kg, bending, twisting, kneeling, squatting, crawling.
Compensation:
Big Lakes County offers an excellent benefit and pension package with a competitive salary.
Hours of Work:
Monday-Friday 8:15am-4:00pm
Submit Cover Letter and Resume, Including References to:
Eunice McCauley
Human Resources Manager
Big Lakes County
Box 239, High Prairie, AB T0G 1E0
Phone: 780-523-5955
humanresources@biglakescounty.ca
Deadline for applications: Open till suitable candidate is found.
Big Lakes County thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Visit our website at www.biglakescounty.ca for more information.
Note: The above statements outline the general nature and level of work for this position and are not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.