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.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
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.
If agriculture is your passion, please submit your cover letter and resume in confidence to:
County of Stettler No. 6
Attention: Greg Jackson, Director of Operations
info@stettlercounty.ca
This competition will remain open until a suitable applicant is found. We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Agriculture and oil and gas manufacturing are the core of our economy with tourism being a strong economic driver with popular attractions being our close proximity to Buffalo Lake and the always popular Alberta Prairie Steam Train Excursions. Population within our trading area is approximately 12,000 people. The County of Stettler and region offers a wide range of municipal services and quality recreational opportunities that contribute to an exceptional lifestyle.
