Are you passionate about protecting our natural landscapes and building a more resilient city? We are looking for a dedicated Wildfire Technician to join our Natural Areas and Ecology team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of wildfire risk mitigation, ensuring Edmonton's municipal urban forest and natural areas thrive for generations to come. You will blend technical expertise with community collaboration to implement the City's Climate Adaptation Strategy. If you are a forest ecology expert who values environmental stewardship and public safety, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping a safe, green, and vibrant future for everyone who calls Edmonton home
As a Wildfire Technician, you will play a vital role in the preservation and growth of Edmonton's Urban Forest and Natural Areas. Reporting to the Ecologist, you will focus on identifying and mitigating wildfire risks along the wildland-urban interface. Your work is essential to achieving the goals of the City's Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan by ensuring our natural spaces are wildfire-resilient. This position involves a dynamic mix of field-based risk assessments, strategic planning, and administrative oversight. You will act as a subject matter expert, collaborating with internal teams and external partners to promote FireSmart principles. Ultimately, you are responsible for balancing the preservation of our natural areas with the safety and accessibility needs of our community
What will you do?
Actively assess natural and naturalized areas for wildfire risk and respond to inquiries from community members regarding wildfire safety
Collect field data using GIS software to track wildfire risk, other ecological attributes and monitor post-disturbance
Administer and inspect the work of contractors and internal teams to ensure fuel load reduction efforts meet City standards
Research and implement FireSmart best practices that maintain ecological integrity within an urban setting
Educate and train internal operational teams to ensure their work does not inadvertently increase wildfire risks
Provide technical expertise for tactical exercise planning and the coordination of prescribed burns in partnership with Fire Rescue Services
Analyze environmental data to make evidence-based recommendations for wildfire risk mitigation to internal collaborators
Present to and communicate with external interested parties regarding Edmonton's wildfire risk mitigation
Apply for external funding and grants to support ongoing wildfire risk mitigation projects
Prepare detailed work reports, maintain inspection records, and manage invoices related to contract work
Qualifications
:Completion of a two (2) year technical diploma or higher level education in Forestry, Environmental Sciences, or a related field from a recognized institute of technology
A minimum of five (5) years of experience in wildfire management or wildfire ecology
Assets:
Professional Forester designation
ISA Certified Arborist credential
Skills required for success:
Strong professional knowledge in wildfire management and the successful implementation of risk mitigation projects
Ecological Knowledge: shrubs, forbs, and grasses--and understanding their communities
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to engage effectively with interested and/or affected parties
Understanding of federal, provincial and municipal legislation that guides wildfire work in natural areas
Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and build strong relationships with collaborators and people with special expertise
Capacity to use technical expertise to resolve complex issues while balancing environmental preservation
Demonstrated experience conducting field surveys and using GIS software
Alignment to our Cultural Commitments and Leadership Competencies (https://bit.ly/4brRrXm)
Embracing a culture of equity, diversity, reconciliation and inclusion
Applicants may be tested
Conditions of Employment:
Valid Alberta Class 5 driver's licence (or provincial equivalent). Obtaining and maintaining a City Driver's permit is a requirement of this position
Successful candidates will be fit for a respirator, and compliance with the City of Edmonton's Code of Practice for Respiratory Protective Equipment, including medical monitoring, is a requirement of this position
Compliance with the City of Edmonton's safety standards for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as wearing steel-toe boots, gloves, goggles, sunscreen and coveralls
Possession of current Standard First Aid, CPR-C and AED certifications
Work Environment:
The role involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and Indoors
Exposure to environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, inclement weather, dust, noise, light variation, vibrations, chemicals, animals, and exposure to mechanical and electrical hazards may occur
This role requires completion of repetitive and strenuous tasks such as standing, walking, kneeling, bending, stooping, crouching, lifting items up to 20 pounds, pushing, pulling, reaching, using feet/hand control requiring physical stamina and resilience
Split shifts or shift work may be required
The City of Edmonton values applicants with a diverse range of skills, experiences and competencies, and encourages you to apply. We strive to provide reasonable access and accommodations throughout the recruitment process. To request an accommodation, please contact employment@edmonton.ca. Learn more about our benefits https://bit.ly/COEbenefits.
Up to 1 full-time temporary position up to 11 months