Fire Crew Foreperson (Maintenance Worker 3A)

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, geological resources, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, mineral, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

For more information on the department view our website: https://novascotia.ca/natr

About Our Opportunity

Under the direction of the Area Manager, or designate, the Fire Crew Foreperson is responsible for leading, participating and supervising seasonal staff who carry out forest fire suppression and pre suppression activities as well as work in other department programs.

Primary Accountabilities

Some of your primary accountabilities will include:

• Conducting general maintenance of department vehicles, buildings, grounds, and equipment.
• Complying with, and seeking compliance with, Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and department policies from staff.
• Actively particiapting in implementing the department Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Programs.
• Operating department vehicles and equipment.
• Assisting district technicians in forestry, wildlife, parks and other general district duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

This may be the right opportunity for you if you have a minimum of 4 years related experience. Graduation from a forestry training program at a University, Technical or Community College level will be considered asset.

Related experience includes:

• General carpentry; building and grounds maintenance; general machine maintenance; use of tractors, ride- on mowers, push mowers, string trimmers and hand and power tools.
• Supervision and evaluating the work of others. Basic Wildland Fire Suppression Certification. Knowledge of map and compass reading.
• Valid (Standard) First Aid certificate and WHMIS training.
• Valid N.S. Class 5 Driver’s License or equivalent and able to operate standard shift vehicle. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of cleaning methods and sanitation requirements. Ability to start a Wajax Mark 3 Fire Pump.

Asset Qualifications:

• Experience and / or training in radio communication.
• Knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. Forest Safety Society certified for power saw and spacing saws.
• Demonstrated self-initiated desire to advance skills and/or training in wildland fire suppression (online training, SAT’s, exports, off season courses or experience).
Able to use and navigate with GPS units, collate data and properly up/download to/from associated PC software.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of training, education and experience will be considered. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

• This position requires the ability to lead and work as part of a team, performing strenuous manual tasks in an outdoor environment.
• Duties often require working irregularly scheduled hours, weekends, evenings and holidays.
• During times of high fire activity you may be assigned to other areas of the province to assist in fire suppression.
• Must be willing to be transported in department aircraft and attend department training in duties related to this position.

Additional Information

This is a permanent seasonal opportunity. The seasonal term of 6 months or more is expected to be from April 2, 2024 to October 5, 2024.

Please note, the seasonal status for these positions is expected to be 6 months or more, however the actual status will depend on the actual start date of the successful candidates.

Because employees' safety is the utmost concern, as a condition of employment successful applicants must successfully complete the following prior to employment:

• Medium Level Pack Test
• Entails wearing a 25 pound (11.3 kg.) vest and walking 2 miles (3.3 km) in 30 minutes.
• Wajax Mark 3 Fire Pump start-cord pull test
• Medical evaluation and clearance form
• Must be completed by a physician and paid for by the applicant.
• Valid Standard First Aid certificate and WHMIS certification

Candidates selected for interviews will be required to submit a driver’s abstract, criminal records check and vulnerable sector check.

You must supply your own CSA approved safety boots that are at least 6 inches high.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless career paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.