Summary
Description
The Team
The Seed Production section is responsible for effectively managing five ministry seed orchard sites, representing 50% of the orchard capacity in BC. The section has 11 full-time staff, 19 long-term auxiliary employees, and up to 80 seasonal staff, responsible for managing 50,000 trees within 40 orchards. The Prince George Tree Improvement Station (PGTIS) has a small team of 3-5 people who work closely on the development and day-to-day operations of the seed orchards and other projects located on the large site outside Prince George.
The Role
The Lead Hand, Machine Operator is a crucial member of the PGTIS team and responsible for the maintenance and running of various equipment used in day-to-day operations. This role preforms essential proactive coordination between the site supervisor and field activities. The Lead Hand, Machine Operator has an aptitude for problem solving and desire to see the successful establishment and development of seed orchards and genetic trials across the site along with the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience Requirements
• Demonstrated experience operating and maintaining farm or agricultural tractors (up to 90hp) and equipment including servicing of gas and diesel engines. Prefer building maintenance, irrigation systems (reel), fabrication and welding experience.
• Valid class 5 driver’s license and a mechanical aptitude.
• Basic knowledge of mechanical, electrical and irrigation systems, and general building maintenance and operation.
• Prefer knowledge of transportation safety rules and the Motor Vehicle Act regulations as applied to vehicles and machinery.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to safely use and maintain vehicles, machinery, equipment and tools.
• Demonstrated ability to read, follow instructions and communicate clearly, verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of team to organize, carryout and complete tasks on time.
• Demonstrated ability to work respectfully and cooperatively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lift, operate and/or move pallets, trees, bags of fertilizer, cones, other bulk materials, chain saws and other power tools, equipment parts, on an on-going basis.
• Willingness and ability to work: with pesticides/toxic chemicals; at heights using lifts and ladders; irregular hours for call-outs to address snow clearing emergencies and to meet critical windows of opportunity regarding orchard treatments/applications.
• Valid pesticide applicators certificate or willingness and ability to obtain and employ.
• Ability to guide and monitor other seasonal workers.
• Valid BC Class 5, 7N, or equivalent Driver’s Licence (Class 7L is not considered equivalent).
• Prefer Class 3 Drivers License with airbrake ticket, Occupational First Aid Level 1 and workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS) training or willingness to obtain these and other certifications.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Sharman.Prior@gov.bc.ca.
About this Position:
This is a temporary opportunity until October 31, 2025. This position may be extended.
This position has full time on-site requirements.
An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies.
A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.
Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.
Working for the BC Public Service:
The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.
We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.
The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Canadian Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Métis, or Inuit) applicants. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.
The BC Public Service is an award-winning employer and offers employees competitive benefits, amazing learning opportunities and a chance to engage in rewarding work with exciting career development opportunities. For more information, please see What We Offer.
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How to Apply:
Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the job requirements listed above. Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process may be assessed on their knowledge, skills, abilities, competencies and other position related requirements as outlined in the Job Profile at the bottom of the posting.
Cover Letter: NO – Please do not submit a cover letter as it will not be reviewed.
Resume: YES – Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history including start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and any relevant information that relates to the job to which you are applying.
Questionnaire: YES – You will need to complete a comprehensive questionnaire to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements. Include all relevant information about your educational accomplishments and employment history including job titles, start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and how you obtained your relevant experience. The questionnaire will take approximately 60 minutes to complete.
Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit the Your Job Application page of MyHR. Gain insights into the hiring journey by joining a Career Conversation. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.
