Program Manager, Urban Forestry - Newmarket, Canada - York Region

York Region
York Region
Verified Company
Newmarket, Canada

1 month ago

Sophia Lee

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Sophia Lee

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Description

Job Description:


POSITION PURPOSE


Reporting to the Manager, Natural Heritage and Forestry, is responsible for leading the development and implementation of programs related to the protection, conservation and management of the Region's urban and rural forest resources, including overseeing the planning, protection, and planting of Regional street trees, VivaNext streetscapes and other softscapes; contributing to the development and implementation of strategic plans to increase canopy and woodland cover; provide leadership to team of Forestry and Landscape professionals to achieve program and division goals.


MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Takes a lead role in the development and implementation of strategic program initiatives related to the sustainable management of the Regional street trees, VivaNext streetscapes and other softscapes.
  • Manages and coordinates consultants, tender processes and contracts and ensures conformance to design and contract guidelines.
  • Works with management staff to review program delivery, identify gaps and improve delivery consistent with program growth and urbanization of the Region.
  • Oversees the strategic management of urban forests including collaboration with agencies, Regional and local municipalities, counties and cities.
  • Manages and coordinates the development and implementation of annual street tree and landscape planting contracts, and soil improvement and low impact development projects.
  • Oversees the development and implementation of asset management systems for street trees and other vegetation, including landscaping requirements related to forestry, arboriculture and horticultural needs.
  • Oversees the development and implementation of research and innovation projects with external partners
  • Assists the Manager in developing multiyear business/work plans and in developing service plans and staffing proposals.
  • Provides input into budget and business plan development, policies and procedures.
  • Supervises staff, including recruitment, selection, hiring, scheduling, assigning and monitoring work, determining training and development needs, coaching and mentoring, conducting performance appraisals and determining/recommending disciplinary action up to and including dismissal in accordance with collective agreements, Regional policies and practices.
  • Ensures that operating staff work in a safe manner and utilize all required health and safety equipment and protective devices and follow all measures and procedures as required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and Regional Policies.
  • Liaises with other Branches and Departments regarding the planning, protection and maintenance of the Region's urban and rural forests.
  • Responds to customer enquiries directly and/or resolves difficult or highly sensitive complaints either verbally or in writing.
  • Assumes functions of the Manager in that person's absence, as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Successful completion of a University Degree in Forestry or related field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience in urban or rural forestry, preferably in a municipal environment, with responsibilities for planning, contract administration, maintenance and planting operations, project management, and minimum of one (1) year of direct supervisory experience.
  • Knowledge of budget preparation, financial management of operational programs/projects including monitoring and control.
  • Knowledge of urban forestry best practices in relation to the planning, planting and maintenance of trees and other vegetation, including invasive species management.
  • Knowledge to interpret Engineering road related drawings, development proposals and plans in the context of vegetation protection and streetscaping.
  • Valid Ontario Class "G" driver's licence free of serious offences under the Highway Traffic Act.
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