New Job Fire Crew (Maintenance Worker 2(A)) In Nova Scotia

Seasonal Status

This is a seasonal opportunity of six months or more with an anticipated season start date of April 2, 2023 and an end date of October 2, 2023; however, the status of the opportunity (Seasonal, Casual) is dependent on the start date of the successful applicant.

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, geological resources, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources & Renewables is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, mineral, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

https://novascotia.ca/natr/

About Our Opportunity

Are you looking for a challenging position that allows you to work outside and brings you personal satisfaction and accomplishment? Fighting forest fires is a demanding but rewarding experience. Those who believe in teamwork, safety and a dedication for fitness will do well in this role.

Primary Accountabilities

As a Forestry/Fire Crew team member, typical duties may include:

• Wildland fire suppression, pre-suppression and post suppression.
• Assisting with wildlife, forestry, park or infrastructure projects.
• General maintenance, grounds keeping, cleaning and janitorial duties, carpentry and the use of chain saws or clearing saws, powered and manual hand tools and associated equipment.
• Safe use of all vehicles, including off-highway vehicles, tractors, vehicles equipped with manual transmissions, and 4-wheel drive type trucks.

Qualifications and Experience

This may be the right opportunity for you if you have a minimum of two (2) years of related experience, including work in:

• Wildland firefighting, general carpentry, building and grounds maintenance, general machine maintenance, use of tractors, ride-on mowers, push mowers, string trimmers, hand or power tools and janitorial or custodial duties.

You are a self-motivated, physically fit, flexible, team player. You have knowledge of wildland fire management and wilderness/outdoor navigation and maps. You have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. A valid NS Class 5 Drivers License (or equivalent) is required. Candidates are required to successfully complete fitness testing prior to hiring.

The following are considered assets:

• Basic Wildland Fire Suppression Certification.
• Experience and/or training in radio communication.
• Formal forestry training.
• Knowledge of OHS Act and Regulations.
• Forest Safety Society certified for power saw and spacing saws.
• Computer proficiency.
• Able to use GPS units, collate data and associated software.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

You will be required to work irregularly scheduled hours, weekends, evenings and holidays. Following work days you may drive home at night or be required to stay at accommodations locally (i.e. tent, hotel). You may be required to stay in other parts of the province. Travel in helicopter is a condition of employment.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to attempt the WFX-FIT test, which upon successful completion will qualify the employee to join the Provincial Type-1 Wildfire team, providing opportunities for advanced wildland firefighting activities including out-of-province wildfire deployments.

We are seeking employees who are tolerant of others. You must be adaptable to personality differences and be able to resolve potential conflicts appropriately.

Additional Information

• Successful candidates will be required to complete the Medium Level Pack testing which entails wearing a 25 pound (11.3 kg.) Vest and walking 2 miles (3.3 km) in 30 minutes (hiring is contingent on successful completion of the Medium Level Pack Test);
• Applicants will be required to demonstrate the ability to effectively pull the start cord of a Wajax Mark 3 Fire Pump;
• Candidates selected for interviews willbe required to submit a Driver’s abstract, Criminal Records check, and Vulnerable Sector Check; and
• Uniforms are mandatory and must be clean and worn neatly. Must supply your own CSA approved safety boots that are at least 6 inches high.

What We Offer

• Contribution to the protection of Nova Scotia’s natural resources;
• Career advancement;
• Potential travel opportunities;
• Working primarily outside and in nature;
• Exciting team environment