THE ROLE

Reporting to the Grounds Horticulture Foreperson, this position will be responsible for maintaining and designing shrub beds on Surrey School sites. Your considerable knowledge of the methods, practices, materials, tools and equipment used in horticultural work along with extensive knowledge of plant materials, fertilizers, integrated pest management, landscaping methods and sustainable design will make you an asset to the team. Leadership skills and training will be essential as you assist employees engaged in the maintenance and development of school grounds. Success in this position requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet multiple and competing deadlines, as well as responding to time-oriented emergencies.

This days-only position offers a shift of 7am-3pm, Monday to Friday.

Typical Responsibilities

Maintains flower beds, digs ditches and post holes, mows lawns, etc. Uses a variety of hand and power tools. Operates and cleans equipment related to work. Plants and maintains various planted areas. Picks rocks and litter, rakes, trims grass, etc., to maintain school grounds according to District standards. Prunes shrubs and trees. Installs, maintains, inspects and repairs drainage systems. Assists in the layout and construction of planted areas, playing fields, drainage systems, etc. Lays out, installs, repairs, winterizes and maintains underground sprinkler systems and associated timer controls. Sites fences, curbs, sidewalks, driveways, etc. Completes and prepares sketches and reports and maintains records related to work assignments. Lays out and marks lines on playing fields. Applies pesticides and herbicides, as required. Fertilizes and maintains lawns, shrubs and planted areas. May direct the activities of employees engaged in related work. Drives a District vehicle to and from job sites. May be required to perform the duties specified in lower classifications. Performs related duties, as required.

Job Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge of tools, equipment, materials, techniques, etc. used in grounds programs at entry. Knowledge, ability and skill must develop as necessary to meet the two-year requirements of this class specification. Knowledge of drainage systems, soil preparation and types of materials used in the grounds programs. Knowledge of shrubs, trees, grasses, plants, etc. used by the District. Mechanical knowledge to inspect equipment used, to recognize operating and potential operating problems and to have equipment serviced and repaired, as necessary. Ability to assign, layout, coordinate, direct and organize work of assigned staff. Ability to communicate effectively in English and the ability to understand, carry out, and communicate written and oral instructions. Skills in the operation and maintenance of grounds equipment. Sufficient strength, stamina and coordination to perform required tasks in all weather conditions. Ability to prepare, read and interpret drawings and sketches related to work assignments. Knowledge of WHMIS, WCB occupational health and safety regulations and District safe work practices, policies and procedures to perform work requirements within the area of responsibility. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with District staff and others. Ability to successfully complete courses in subjects related to grounds work such as: Basic Turf Management Commercial Pruning Landscaping, General Gardening Knowledge and skill must develop as necessary to meet one (1) and two (2) year requirements of the classifications.

Applicant Must Have

A 2-year technical Diploma in Horticulture from a recognized college/institution or completion of a Landscape Horticulturalist Red Seal. A valid unrestricted Class 5 BC Driver’s license. Ability to direct, supervise, and participate in the activities with one or more assistants. Must be physically able to perform heavy manual work throughout the year.

This is a unionized position that offers a 37.5-hour work week with an hourly wage rate of $40.65, plus a liberal benefit package including Municipal Pension, health, vacation and sick benefits.

NOTE: The successful applicant is required to consent to a Criminal Record Search prior to employment. Only applicants selected for interviews are contacted.