Greenskeeper

About the Role

The City of Brantford is seeking a professional and detail-oriented Greenskeeper to join our dedicated Parks and Recreation team. In this essential role, you will be responsible for the meticulous care and maintenance of municipal grounds, ensuring that our public spaces, parks, and specialized horticultural sites remain vibrant, safe, and aesthetically pleasing for all residents and visitors. As a steward of the local environment, you will apply industry-standard turf management and landscaping techniques to uphold the high standards of excellence expected within our community’s green infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive turf management programs, including mowing, aerating, fertilizing, and overseeding to ensure healthy and resilient grass surfaces across municipal properties.
• Perform routine maintenance on garden beds, shrubbery, and floral displays, including weeding, pruning, and seasonal planting to enhance the city's visual appeal.
• Operate and maintain a variety of specialized landscaping equipment such as commercial mowers, trimmers, blowers, and utility vehicles, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed.
• Identify and address potential drainage issues, pest infestations, or plant diseases through integrated pest management and proactive landscape monitoring.
• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of athletic fields and recreational areas, ensuring surfaces are safe and meet regulatory standards for public use.
• Monitor and adjust irrigation systems to ensure optimal water distribution and conservation while maintaining plant health during varying weather conditions.
• Maintain accurate logs of daily activities, equipment inspections, and chemical applications in compliance with provincial and municipal regulations.
• Provide exceptional service to the public by responding to inquiries and ensuring work sites are kept clean, organized, and accessible during maintenance operations.

Qualifications

• A secondary school diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience in horticulture, landscaping, or turf management.
• Proven experience in the operation of commercial landscaping equipment and a strong understanding of horticultural best practices.
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is required to operate municipal vehicles between various worksites.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, including WHMIS and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, as they pertain to outdoor maintenance and chemical handling.
• Physical stamina and the ability to perform manual labor in various weather conditions, including heat, rain, and cold environments.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Possession of a valid Pesticide Technician License or a Landscape Exterminator License is considered a significant asset.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package with a stable, permanent full-time schedule within the public sector.
• Comprehensive health and dental benefits designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families.
• Enrollment in a robust municipal pension plan (OMERS) providing long-term financial security.
• Opportunities for professional development and ongoing training in the fields of horticulture and environment management.
• A supportive work environment committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on employee work-life balance.
• The chance to make a tangible impact on the beauty and sustainability of the Brantford community.

Required Skills