The City of Barrie is a vibrant, fast-growing municipality located in southern Ontario, Canada. Known for its stunning waterfront, beautiful parks, and rich cultural scene, Barrie offers a diverse range of recreational activities for its residents. The city is also renowned for its high quality of life, making it a desirable place to live, work, and play. As part of its commitment to maintaining this high standard, Barrie is constantly looking to enhance its public spaces and outdoor amenities.
The Role of Parks Maintenance Attendant
The Parks Maintenance Attendant position is a key role in ensuring that the city’s parks, gardens, and recreational facilities are well-maintained and inviting for residents and visitors. As a member of the Parks and Recreation team, the attendant will be responsible for a variety of tasks related to the upkeep of public spaces. This role plays an important part in creating a clean, safe, and attractive environment for the community.
Job Responsibilities and Duties
The primary duties of a Parks Maintenance Attendant include grass cutting, tree care, garden maintenance, trash collection, and general groundskeeping tasks. Additionally, the attendant will be responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of park amenities, such as picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and washroom facilities. Maintaining the aesthetic beauty of the parks and ensuring they are accessible and safe for all users are also important aspects of the role.
Key Skills and Qualifications Required
To be successful in the role of Parks Maintenance Attendant, candidates must possess a combination of technical skills and physical stamina. Knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, and general park maintenance is beneficial. Candidates should be comfortable using a range of tools and equipment, including lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and power washers. Physical fitness is also important, as the role involves manual labor in various weather conditions.
Education and Experience
While a formal post-secondary education is not necessarily required for the position, candidates with a background in landscaping, horticulture, or environmental studies will be at an advantage. Previous experience working in park maintenance or related outdoor roles is preferred. Additionally, experience operating equipment like lawnmowers, trimmers, and other machinery is a plus.
Work Environment and Conditions
The work environment for a Parks Maintenance Attendant is primarily outdoors, requiring the ability to work in a variety of weather conditions, from hot summer days to chilly autumn mornings. Attendants must be able to handle the physical demands of the job, which may include lifting heavy objects, bending, kneeling, and walking long distances. The role may involve weekend and evening work, especially during peak seasons like summer.
The Importance of Parks Maintenance
Parks maintenance is a vital aspect of any municipality’s infrastructure. Well-maintained parks provide residents with spaces to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. They also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the city and can increase property values in surrounding neighborhoods. Properly maintained parks and green spaces encourage social interaction and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.
Benefits of Working with the City of Barrie
Working as a Parks Maintenance Attendant with the City of Barrie comes with a range of benefits. These include a competitive salary, opportunities for career advancement, and access to various employee programs. The city is known for fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, and employees enjoy a strong sense of pride in contributing to the community’s quality of life.
Seasonal Employment and Full-Time Opportunities
The Parks Maintenance Attendant position is typically a seasonal role, with work primarily during the warmer months. However, there may be opportunities for full-time, year-round positions for exceptional candidates. Seasonal employees often have the opportunity to gain valuable experience and may be considered for permanent positions if available.
Safety Protocols and Equipment Use
Safety is a top priority in any park maintenance job. Attendants are trained in the proper use of equipment and safety protocols, ensuring that both staff and the public are protected. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. Regular maintenance and inspections of tools and machinery are also essential to ensure they are in safe working condition.
The Role of Teamwork in Parks Maintenance
While much of the work is done individually, teamwork is an essential aspect of park maintenance. Attendants collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, and other city departments to ensure the parks are properly maintained. Coordination with other staff members may also be necessary when preparing for special events, such as festivals or sports tournaments, that take place in the city’s parks.
Seasonal Challenges in Parks Maintenance
Each season presents unique challenges for paparkaintenance. In the spring, it is crucial to prepare the parks for heavy use by cleaning up debris, planting flowers, and ensuring that all park amenities are in working order. Summer requires diligent maintenance of lawns, gardens, and playgrounds, as well as managing increased foot traffic. Fall is the time for leaf cleanup and winterizing park equipment, while winter maintenance involves clearing snow and salting walkways to keep parks accessible.
Customer Service and Public Interaction
Although the role is primarily focused on maintenance tasks, Parpark maintenance attendants often interact with park visitors. Providing excellent customer service and answering questions or concerns from the public is an important aspect of the job. Being friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable about the parks is essential to creating a positive experience for visitors.
Environmental Sustainability in Parks Maintenance
As environmental sustainability becomes an increasing priority, the City of Barrie is committed to maintaining its parks in an eco-friendly manner. This may involve using sustainable materials, reducing water usage, and incorporating native plant species into landscaping. Parks Maintenance Attendants are expected to follow sustainable practices and contribute to the city’s green initiatives.
The Application Process for Parks Maintenance Attendant
To apply for the Parks Maintenance Attendant position, candidates must submit to the City of Barrie’s official website. The application typically includes submitting a resume and cover letter outlining relevant experience and skills. Candidates may also be required to complete an interview and a skills assessment to demonstrate their suitability for the role.
Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
The City of Barrie offers a variety of career advancement opportunities for its employees. A Parks Maintenance Attendant can gain experience in different areas of parks management and may have the chance to move into supervisory or specialized roles. Continuous learning and professional development are encouraged, and employees are supported in their career growth.
The Impact of Parks on the Community
Parks are an integral part of any community, providing space for recreation, relaxation, and connection to nature. Well-maintained parks are crucial in fostering a sense of community pride and well-being. By ensuring that Barrie’s parks are in top condition, Parks Maintenance Attendants play an important role in enhancing the lives of residents and visitors.
Collaboration with Other City Departments
Parks Maintenance Attendants do not work in isolation; they collaborate with other departments within the City of Barrie. For instance, the Parks and Recreation team works closely with the Public Works and Environmental Services departments to ensure that parks are maintained by environmental standards. Collaboration also extends to community organizations, which may use parks for events or volunteer initiatives.
The Future of Parks Maintenance in Barrie
As Barrie continues to grow, the demand for well-maintained parks and public spaces will only increase. The city is continuously looking for ways to improve its parks and recreational facilities, incorporating new technologies and sustainable practices to better serve its residents. The role of the Parks Maintenance Attendant will remain essential in helping Barrie achieve its vision of being a clean, safe, and vibrant community.
Job Details
- Casual Full-time
- Hours: According to the Collective Agreement, 40 hours a week is the typical workweek.
- Salary: Under the CUPE Local 2380 Bargaining Unit, this post has the following pay grade and range for 2024: pay range:
• Pay Level: Level 3
• Annual salary range of $54,724.80 to $65,520.00
• Hourly pay rate of $26.31 to $31.50
Workplace Environment
Your work environment embodies our company values of striving, Sharing, and Care, and you wish to work with us to deliver first-rate services and initiatives to create a thriving, expanding, and sustainable community.
Experience
- One (1) year of experience carrying out tasks associated with the primary responsibilities listed above
- Proven ability to manage a team and provide direction, oversight, and training
- Proven ability to maintain, examine, and fix vegetation and turf
- Proven ability to manage turf, including but not limited to mowing, trimming, overseeding, and aerating turf
Knowledge, Ability, and Skill
- Familiarity with the following laws, rules, or specifications: the Technical Standards and Safety Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Occupiers Liability Act, the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, and the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban Act
- Working familiarity with the laws, rules, or specifications listed below: Ontario Traffic Manual, Book 7, Temporary Conditions; Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR)
- General understanding of the following criteria and principles: methods and materials used in the building of parks, trails, and landscapes
- Working familiarity with the following guidelines and standards: safe operating best practices, equipment and vehicle maintenance for parks
- Work hard to lift, push, pull, or carry objects for brief periods
- Use prescribed resources to generate ideas, conclusions, or solutions
- Interact politely and effectively with all staff levels and contacts
- Always maintain a high standard of public relations
- Perform routine maintenance or minor repairs on tools and equipment
- Run, operate, maneuver, navigate, or drive vehicles or mechanized equipment
- Choose and apply appropriate mathematical methods to perform basic calculations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Collaboratively in a group setting to achieve desired objectives, goals, and/or outcomes.
- Interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving, collaborative, time-management, and verbal communication are examples of fundamental skills.
- Basic computer literacy using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, and Word) and the Internet
Certificates
- Secondary School Diploma
Workplace Conditions/Licences
Workplace Conditions for Parks Maintenance Attendant
The workplace conditions for a Parks Maintenance Attendant with the City of Barrie are unique, as the position primarily requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a crisp fall morning, attendants are expected to perform their duties in all seasons. The work environment can be physically demanding, involving activities like lifting heavy equipment, bending, kneeling, and walking long distances. Despite these physical demands, the role offers the opportunity to work in a natural, open-air setting, which many find rewarding. The outdoors provides a refreshing atmosphere, making the job ideal for those who enjoy being active while surrounded by nature.
In addition to physical work, the Parks Maintenance Attendant must be prepared to use various tools and equipment daily. This includes lawnmowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, power washers, and sometimes even snowplows in the winter. Ensuring that all tools are in safe, working order is essential to maintaining a high standard of park upkeep. The attendants must also practice proper safety measures when using these tools, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, ear protection, and steel-toed boots. Adherence to safety standards and maintenance protocols is critical to preventing accidents and injuries.
The physical nature of the job also requires workers to have good stamina and a positive attitude toward working in various environmental conditions. For instance, during the summer months, temperatures can rise, leading to long hours of mowing and general groundskeeping. Similarly, during the fall, staff may spend hours clearing leaves and preparing park facilities for the colder months. In winter, snow clearing and salting are essential to maintain accessibility, and employees must be equipped to handle the snow and cold weather. Therefore, working conditions vary depending on the season but always demand flexibility and a robust work ethic from the employee.
Work Schedule and Hours
Work hours for a Parks Maintenance Attendant are typically full-time, with the majority of the work being done during the day. However, there may be instances where work is required during evenings or weekends, especially during peak seasons or when special events are held in the parks. For example, summer festivals, sports tournaments, or community gatherings may necessitate extended hours to prepare the parks in advance or clean up afterward. Flexibility in working hours is, therefore, an important factor for this role. Additionally, overtime opportunities may be available, depending on the workload and specific projects at hand.
During the busy summer months, park maintenance crews often work in teams to ensure that all areas are well cared for. This could mean splitting shifts or having several people work at different times of the day to ensure continuous maintenance. In contrast, during the off-season (usually in winter and early spring), the workload may decrease, and the hours might be adjusted to reflect a lighter schedule. Employees may be asked to take on different responsibilities, such as preparing equipment for the upcoming season or engaging in long-term maintenance projects that are best completed during off-peak times.
Environmental Factors and Seasonal Challenges
As park maintenance workers are exposed to various weather conditions throughout the year, environmental factors play a significant role in the daily routines of the position. In summer, the heat and humidity can be intense, requiring workers to stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and wear appropriate sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats. Similarly, during the colder months, attendants must be prepared for extreme cold, which can lead to frostbite or other cold-related injuries. In addition to wearing layers of clothing, gloves, and boots, maintaining warmth through regular movement is essential for avoiding physical strain.
Seasonal challenges present additional hurdles, especially during autumn and spring. The fall brings heavy leaf fall, and maintenance teams must work diligently to clear the park grounds. Meanwhile, the spring season requires preparing the parks after the winter months, which may include cleaning up debris and ensuring that playgrounds, trails, and gardens are in optimal condition. The unpredictable nature of weather means that maintenance tasks may need to be rescheduled or adjusted to accommodate unexpected conditions, requiring a high level of adaptability from the workers.
In some instances, the work environment may also involve the management of public areas that are prone to heavy use, particularly on weekends or during holidays. As a result, attendants may have to be proactive in monitoring park conditions, ensuring the cleanliness of public spaces, and dealing with any issues that arise during peak usage times.
Licenses and Certifications Required
While specific licenses are not always mandatory for the position of Parks Maintenance Attendant, having certain certifications can be beneficial and may even be required depending on the role’s responsibilities. For example, having a valid driver’s license is essential for those who need to operate city vehicles to transport equipment or materials. In addition, some areas of park maintenance may require a Class G or G2 driver’s license, especially for individuals operating vehicles like trucks or larger machinery.
ACertificationin First Aid and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is highly recommended for Parks Maintenance Attendants. In the event of an emergency, being able to provide immediate medical assistance can be invaluable, particularly in remote areas of the park where help may not be immediately available. The City of Barrie may offer these training sessions to staff or may require candidates to have current certification before starting the role.
Additionally, some attendants may be required to hold specific horticulture-related certifications if they are tasked with maintaining gardens, planting flowers, or managing plant health. Certifications in pesticide application may also be necessary for workers who are responsible for controlling invasive plant species or pests in the parks. Depending on the type of park maintenance activities, specialized licenses may be needed to operate certain machinery or equipment.
Ongoing Training and Development
The City of Barrie places a strong emphasis on employee development and continuous learning. Parks Maintenance Attendants are encouraged to pursue training opportunities and certifications to improve their skills and grow in their careers. Regular training in areas such as safety procedures, equipment operation, and environmental sustainability practices is common. This not only ensures that workers are up to date with the latest standards but also helps them become more versatile in their roles.
Staff may also have access to workshops and seminars that focus on environmental stewardship, which could help them understand better practices for maintaining parks with a focus on sustainability. Additionally, training on customer service and public interaction is often provided, as attendants interact regularly with park visitors. This training helps staff develop effective communication skills, making them more approachable and knowledgeable when assisting the public.
Many employees appreciate the opportunity for professional growth, as the Parks Maintenance Attendant position can serve as a stepping stone to other roles within the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. Those who demonstrate a strong work ethic and initiative may be promoted to supervisory positions or specialized roles, such as landscape design or environmental management.
Health and Safety Regulations
Ensuring a safe work environment for all Parks Maintenance Attendants is a top priority for the City of Barrie. The municipality adheres to strict health and safety regulations to protect its employees from injuries and accidents. As part of this commitment, all workers receive training on the proper handling of equipment, tools, and machinery. They are also educated about safe lifting techniques to minimize the risk of injury. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory, and attendants are provided with all necessary gear to safely perform their duties.
Regular safety audits and inspections are conducted to ensure that parks and equipment comply with health and safety standards. These audits are crucial in identifying potential hazards and mitigating risks before they become problematic. In addition to regular safety protocols, attendants are encouraged to report any hazards or concerns they come across during their work, ensuring that the workplace remains safe for everyone.
Moreover, emergency protocols are in place for a variety of potential incidents, including severe weather, equipment malfunctions, and accidents. Attendants are trained on these protocols and are required to keep emergency contact information handy while working. The City of Barrie also ensures that workers have access to a health and safety officer or supervisor who can provide guidance and support if needed.
The Community Impact of Parks Maintenance
Parks Maintenance Attendants play an essential role in ensuring that the city’s green spaces are inviting and accessible to everyone. By maintaining public parks, they contribute to creating environments where people can gather, exercise, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s children playing on well-maintained playgrounds, families having picnics, or athletes using the sports fields, the work of park attendants directly influences the quality of recreational experiences within the community.
Parks are more than just aesthetic spaces; they also serve as vital components of urban ecosystems. Proper maintenance helps to preserve biodiversity, reduce pollution, and improve the air quality of the surrounding environment. Parks Maintenance Attendants, therefore, contribute to the overall environmental health of Barrie, which benefits not only current residents but also future generations. By ensuring that parks are clean, safe, and well-kept, they help improve the city’s livability and contribute to a sense of pride within the community.
Maintaining these spaces also has tangible social benefits. Studies show that access to well-maintained parks can promote mental well-being, reduce stress, and encourage physical activity. The role of the Parks Maintenance Attendant, therefore, extends beyond just maintenance; it is about creating spaces that have positive impacts on the health and happiness of individuals in the community.
Seasonal Considerations and Their Impact on Job Tasks
The seasonal nature of park maintenance in Barrie means that the responsibilities of the Parks Maintenance Attendant can change significantly depending on the time of year. The spring and summer months typically involve more active work, such as mowing, gardening, and ensuring that all park amenities are functional. Regular inspections are required during this period to monitor the condition of playground equipment, sports fields, and walking paths. Additionally, attendants must often deal with increased foot traffic during peak times like weekends and holidays, requiring additional efforts to keep the parks clean and organized.
As the weather cools down in the fall, the workload shifts to leaf cleanup, trimming, and preparing parks for the colder months. This includes ensuring that the grass is properly seeded for the winter, that drainage systems are working, and that all public amenities are winterized. Attendants may also need to help with organizing park closures or implementing seasonal signage. During the winter months, snow removal and salting become a primary focus. In Barrie, heavy snowfalls can affect accessibility to parks, and attendants are tasked with keeping walkways and parking lots safe for visitors.
These seasonal changes require Parks Maintenance Attendants to remain flexible and adaptable. They must be ready to switch tasks and use different tools and techniques depending on the time of year. The ability to work effectively in different conditions is essential to the success of the role.
Tools and Equipment Used in PParkMaintenance
A significant part of the Parks Maintenance Attendant’s job revolves around operating and maintaining a variety of tools and machinery. These tools are essential for ensuring that the parks remain in excellent condition throughout the year. Lawnmowers and trimmers are some of the most frequently used equipment during the summer months. These tools allow attendants to maintain manicured lawns and clear walking paths, which are critical for keeping the parks aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Additionally, snowplows and salt spreaders become indispensable during the winter months. These machines are used to clear paths, parking lots, and other key areas in the park, ensuring that the space remains accessible during the colder months. Depending on the size of the park and its facilities, attendants may also use larger machinery, such as riding mowers, tractors, or even aerial lifts for tree pruning or repairs.
Other tools used include hand tools for weeding, pruning, and planting, as well as equipment for litter collection. Leaf blowers and power washers are commonly used for cleaning up debris, which is a regular task, especially in the fall. The wide range of equipment means that Parks Maintenance Attendants must be familiar with each tool’s operation and maintenance needs to ensure they are safe and effective to use. Regular inspections and repairs of this equipment are essential to maintaining operational efficiency.
The Role of Innovation in Parks Maintenance
As cities like Barrie continue to grow, the need for innovation in park maintenance becomes increasingly important. The City of Barrie is always looking for new methods to improve the efficiency and sustainability of its park management practices. This includes adopting new technologies that can help reduce labor costs, improve maintenance efficiency, and lessen the environmental impact of park upkeep.
For example, the use of smart irrigation systems, which help optimize water usage in park landscapes, is becoming more common. These systems use weather data to automatically adjust watering schedules, reducing water waste and ensuring that the park’s plants thrive. Similarly, the adoption of electric-powered lawn equipment instead of gas-powered machines reduces the environmental footprint of park maintenance. These innovations not only make maintenance tasks easier but also align with broader sustainability goals, helping the city to meet its environmental objectives.
Parks Maintenance Attendants must be open to learning about these new technologies and incorporating them into their daily work. Training on new systems and equipment will be a part of their ongoing professional development, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively.
The Role of Public Engagement and Communication
In addition to the physical tasks involved in park maintenance, attendants must also engage with the public. As they work in the parks, they often interact with visitors, answering questions, providing directions, or addressing concerns. Being approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable about park rules and regulations is essential for ensuring that park-goers have a positive experience.
Public engagement also includes addressing specific community needs. For example, if a park is hosting an event, the attendant may work to ensure that it runs smoothly by assisting with setup, providing information, or helping with any special requests. This requires strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to handle various situations calmly and professionally.
Overall, the role of a Parks Maintenance Attendant requires more than just physical labor; it involves being an active participant in the life of the park, contributing to a positive community atmosphere, and maintaining the spaces that bring people together. Effective communication helps foster a sense of pride and ownership within the community, making the role all the more rewarding.
Conclusion
The role of a Parks Maintenance Attendant at the City of Barrie is an essential and multifaceted position that contributes significantly to the quality of life in the community. These professionals play a crucial part in maintaining public parks, ensuring they are clean, safe, and accessible year-round. With the seasonal nature of the job, attendants must be adaptable, shifting between tasks such as lawn care, snow removal, and environmental preservation depending on the time of year. Their work is not only physically demanding but also requires a high level of collaboration with other departments, external organizations, and the public.
The importance of this role goes beyond just the maintenance of physical spaces—it is about fostering community well-being and supporting environmental sustainability. By ensuring that parks remain functional and aesthetically pleasing, Parks Maintenance Attendants help create spaces where residents can relax, exercise, and socialize, thereby improving the mental and physical health of the community. Furthermore, their involvement in sustainability practices and public engagement contributes to the long-term health of both the urban ecosystem and the community it serves.
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