Forestry Labourer - 4-Month Temporary Contract (Unionized)

Position Overview

The County of Brant is seeking a Forestry Labourer for a temporary, unionized position lasting four months from September to December. Reporting to the Forestry Supervisor, the initial worksite is at the Green Lane Sports Complex. This role involves a variety of outdoor forestry duties requiring physical labor and technical knowledge in tree maintenance and planting.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate actively in tree planting and maintenance activities across diverse weather conditions.
• Review and work on daily tree maintenance requests including pruning, removal, stumping, and planting tasks.
• Perform tree inventory assignments and assist in trail upkeep.
• Maintain and care for forestry equipment ensuring proper functioning and safety.
• Operate specialized machinery safely and effectively, such as chippers, chainsaws, stump grinders, and pruning tools.
• Support the young tree maintenance program by watering, mulching, and pruning newly planted trees on County property.
• Deliver excellent customer service by addressing the needs of staff and the public as necessary.
• Undertake any other relevant duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of secondary school education.
• At least one year of work experience in forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, or related areas.
• Familiarity with relevant tools and equipment.
• Good identification skills for trees and invasive species, alongside knowledge of pruning, hazard tree removal, maintenance techniques, and tree planting.
• Working proficiency with digital tools such as Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Effective communication skills for collaborating with colleagues and engaging with the general public.
• Strong interpersonal abilities and records management skills.
• Demonstrated adherence to safety procedures in accordance with legislation like the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Traffic Manual Book 7, and County of Brant health and safety policies.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts including days, evenings, and weekends.
• Valid Class G driver’s licence with a clean driver’s abstract.
• Clear police records check.

Preferred Assets

• Post-secondary education in urban forestry, arboriculture, or related disciplines.
• Experience handling chainsaws, wood chippers, and associated equipment.
• Background working with GIS-based tree inventory systems.
• Knowledge of rope and rigging methods.
• Previous experience within municipal environments.
• Certification as a chainsaw operator.

Compensation and Schedule

The position offers an hourly wage of $26.75 during probation and $33.16 upon confirmation. The typical workweek comprises 40 hours distributed over days, evenings, and weekends.

Additional Information

The County of Brant promotes inclusive hiring and provides accommodations throughout the recruitment process for applicants requiring assistance. All personal information collected during recruitment is safeguarded under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.