Forestry Fire Crew Person (Maintenance Worker 2(A))

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources & Renewables is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, 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. 

For more information on the department view our website: 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:

• 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.

The following are considered assets:

• Basic Wildland Fire Suppression Certification
• Experience and/or training in radio communication;
• Formal forestry training;
• Able to operate standard shift vehicles;
• 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.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

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

There is a seasonal opportunity available in Cornwallis. The seasonal term 4 to 6 months is expected to be from May 20, 2024 to October 5, 2024.

Please note, the seasonal status for this position is expected to be 4 to 6 months, however the actual status will depend on the start date of the successful candidate.

Because employees' safety is the utmost concern, as a condition of employment successful applicants must successfully complete the following prior to employment:

• Medium Level Pack Test - Entails wearing a 25 pound (11.3 kg.) vest and walking 2 miles (3.3 km) in 30 minutes;
• Wajax Mark 3 Fire Pump start-cord pull test;
• Medical evaluation and clearance form - may require completion by a physician and paid for by the applicant;
• Valid Standard First Aid certificate and WHMIS certification.

Candidates selected for interviews will be required to submit a driver’s abstract, criminal records check and vulnerable sector check.

You 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.