Agricultural Fieldman

Posted on: Feb 14, 2025
Posted by: Stettler County

Summary

The County of Stettler No. 6 has an exciting career opportunity for an experienced, highly motivated, and organized Agricultural Fieldman to join our Operations team. We are seeking a dedicated professional to help shape the County’s long-term vision for supporting our agricultural needs, driving innovation, and ensuring the responsible implementation of key activities, projects, and initiatives.

Reporting to the Manager of Operations, the Agricultural Fieldman will be responsible for running agricultural programs which include vegetation management, pest control, soil conservation, extension activities, and more. Key responsibilities include supervising staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing departmental budgets, and advising the Agricultural Services Board (ASB) on policy development and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Advisory:

  • Act in an advisory and administrative capacity to the Agricultural Services Board (ASB) and County Council by preparing reports, agenda items, and reviewing policies and bylaws.
  • Engage positively with farmers, landowners, and agricultural stakeholders to facilitate communication and collaboration while addressing public inquiries and concerns related to agriculture and municipal services.
  • As directed by ASB and Council, implement and oversee initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and collaborate and coordinate with other municipal departments to align efforts supporting overall County goals.

Supervisory & Operations:

  • Supervise the Assistant Agricultural Fieldman and oversee seasonal staff, including Weed/Pest Inspectors, Sprayer Applicators, Parks Mowers and contractors.
  • Provide training, performance reviews, coaching, and support for staff development.
  • Oversee agricultural field operations to ensure compliance with provincial legislation, including the Weed Control Act, Agricultural Pests Act, Soil Conservation Act, and Animal Health Act.
  • Conduct agricultural pest, weed, and soil conservation inspections.
  • Maintain a Certified Pesticide Applicator license to support vegetation management programs.
  • Manage department budgets and oversee contracted work, including intermunicipal projects.
  • Coordinate public meetings and provide information on agricultural programs.
  • Assist landowners with agronomic best practices and land management decisions.

Legislative & Administrative:

  • Stay up-to-date on changes in provincial legislation and industry best practices.
  • Support the Agricultural Services Board (ASB) by advising on agricultural policy, program development, and sustainability initiatives.
  • Prepare reports, agendas, and correspondence for the ASB and County Council.
  • Collaborate with local agricultural research organizations.
  • Manage agricultural equipment rental programs and maintain accurate records.
  • Oversee funding applications, tenders, and partnerships with agricultural organizations.
  • Provide advice and support to other County departments regarding agricultural matters.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

  • Post-secondary education in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 7-10 years of experience in Agricultural Services, with proven supervisory experience.
  • Pesticide Applicator Certificate (Agriculture, Industrial, and Landscape classes) preferred.
  • Predator Control Device Permit (Form 7) is an asset.
  • Member in good standing with the Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldmen (AAAF) or the ability to qualify.
  • First Aid certification is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes:

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively engage with ASB, County Council, management, employees, and ratepayers.
  • Knowledge of pesticide application, weed and crop identification, and basic mechanical skills.
  • Familiarity with GPS and GIS systems.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently.
  • Understanding of budget management and basic accounting principles.
  • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

All employees at the County of Stettler must support, actively engage in and adhere to County of Stettler health and safety policies and procedures, following all safe job procedures while using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
This position requires outdoor work in all conditions and the use of County fleet trucks, ATVs, a boat, and pesticide application equipment.

Physical job requirements, including lifting and carrying up to 23 kg.

The County of Stettler No. 6 offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive employer-paid benefits package. The successful candidate will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check upon hiring and an acceptable Driver’s Abstract.

Job Type

Full Time

Employer Contact

No employer contact listed.

Salary Range

No salary range listed.

Closing Date

March 3, 2025
Posting ID: 30406