Company Description

The County of Grande Prairie builds on its natural environment and the entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens to provide an unmatched quality of life and opportunity for all. We offer a collaborative and dynamic workplace where our values of Trustworthy, Transparent, Respectful, and Collaborative guide our conduct and contribute to a healthy culture.

Job Description

Application Process: To be considered for this role, apply with a cover letter and resume (as one merged document).

We are currently hiring for a Director, Agricultural Services position. As per the ASB Act, this position performs the duties of the municipality's appointed Agricultural Fieldman. Reporting to the General Manager of Community Services, this management position includes the leadership, promotion, and program oversight of supervisors of agricultural programs as endorsed by the Agricultural Service Board (ASB) and Council. This position is responsible for reviewing department policies and processes, systems, and procedures and making improvements as required.

Job Duties and Tasks:

• Supervises agricultural staff team by:
  • Recruiting, selecting, orientating and training staff;
  • Preparing and implementing employee performance and development plans to integrate individual and departmental goals;
  • Coaching and mentoring employees;
  • Providing formal training as required (i.e., weed identification)
• Contributes to the development, implementation and evaluation of strategic plans, program and corporate policies
• Administer and enforcement of the Weed Control Act, the Agricultural Pests Act, the Soil Conservation Act and all associated Regulations to ensure compliance. Provide support to government agencies for the Disposal of Dead Animals Act and the Line Fence Act. Provide support to the Provincial Vet in the event of a livestock disease outbreak
• Develop and implement Weed Inspection, Pest and Disease, Spraying, Mowing, and Rural Extension
• Develop and implement the County's Problem Wildlife Program
• Perform general management tasks such as:
  • Providing leadership (vision, culture and planning) for department;
  • Managing department budget and FTE utilization;
  • Submitting grant applications to the appropriate Provincial Department or funding source;
  • Reporting on staffing activities to CAO, Council and ASB;
• Provide support to Council and the Agriculture Services Board

Qualifications

• University degree or diploma related to Agriculture
• Minimum of 5 years in the Agricultural field with supervisory or management experience
• A valid and current Pesticide Applicators License (Industrial/Agriculture/and or Landscaping) is preferred
• Professional Designation such as RTAg, PAg, or RPBio as an asset
• Certified Crop Advisor license (CCA) an asset
• Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldmen membership is an asset
• Must possess and maintain current Alberta driver's license
• Satisfactory driver's abstract on an annual basis

Additional Information

What We Offer: The County of Grande Prairie provides a competitive compensation package, including benefits, pension and vacation. We actively support professional development opportunities and foster an engaging work environment.

Hours of work: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (35 Hours Per Week). Hours may vary due to the nature of this role and operational needs.

Work Environment: This role is mainly performed in-person in an office environment and also to be available to work in field.

Closing date: This posting will be open until February 7th, 2025 until 11.59 pm Mountain Time.

Pay rate: $147,765 to $173,842 per year.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The County of Grande Prairie recognizes and values the principles of fair hiring practices. We are committed to a respectful and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact [email protected] and we will work with you to meet your needs.

• This posting may be used for future vacancies or to fill more than one position
• This posting may be open until a suitable candidate(s) is/are found.

Please note that once your application is complete, you will receive a confirmation email. If we require any additional information we will contact you. Due to the volume of applications received we can only answer questions at the interview stage.