Building Operator 3 (Halifax)

About Us

The Building Services Division of the Department of Public Works is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 2,200 provincial buildings and structures across Nova Scotia. We maintain various buildings including museums, core government buildings, office buildings, correctional centers, and justice centers. Daily, we are responsible for ensuring these buildings are best served, including all matters related to building operations, building systems maintenance, renovations, and new construction.

Who are we Looking For

Are you a problem solver? Do you thrive in a team environment? Are your best days spent in the field making sure everything is going well? Working with your hands to get the job done intrigues you?

If you are driven, customer-focused and eager to learn, then this role is for you.

About the Role

Your role is pivotal in supporting the safety and efficiency of our provincial building infrastructure. Your role involves overseeing the daily operation and maintenance of building infrastructure in various government buildings. This responsibility is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted services provided by our government.

You will need to be familiar with the Occupational Safety General Regulations and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Working knowledge of the National Building Code and the National Fire Code will be integral to success in your role as Building Operator.

What You Will Be Doing Primary Accountabilities

As the Building Operator, you will be responsible for:

• Using your various skills and expertise to identify potential problems, determine solutions, and physically complete minor carpentry, mechanical, and electrical repairs and develop solutions to inefficiencies.

• Assisting with enhancing and administering a scheduled preventative maintenance program, while prioritizing work efficiently to minimize disruption to building tenants.

• Ensuring all equipment performs and operates properly and provides a safe, secure, effective, and efficient work environment daily.

• Establishing and maintaining effective communication and coordination with other divisions, project teams, facility clients, other government departments, consultants, and contractors related to expected and unexpected changes in operations.

You will have an opportunity to work on:

• Plumbing infrastructure; (such as heating systems, pumps, condensers, condensate tanks and air separators)
• Mechanical equipment (such as boilers, chillers, air handling equipment, pneumatic and electronic controls, diesel/electric generators, cooling towers, sprinkler pumps and air compressors);
• Electrical systems (such as electronic monitoring systems, security systems and computerized fire alarm systems); and
• Automated systems(Building automation systems).

Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• High School completion plus a Power Engineer 4th Class certificate and five (5) years of related experience in operating and maintaining commercial or institutional buildings is required.

An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered.

• Familiarity in a computerized environment, including spreadsheet, word processing, and email applications, is essential.
• Experience with a computerized building maintenance management system and familiarity with government procurement policy and tendering procedures are considered an asset.

You demonstrate a sound knowledge of all aspects of building construction and operation, including:

• Architectural, plumbing, electrical, fire suppression and HVAC systems;
• Reading and interpreting various specifications and drawings;

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

Equivalency

 An equivalent combination of training, education and experience will be considered. Related equivalencies may include, but are not limited to:

• Power Engineer 3rd Class certificate and four (3) years of related experience
• Building Environmental Systems operator class II and four (4) years of related experience 

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

We recognize that everyone brings unique skills and experiences to the table and not everyone "checks all the boxes". We encourage you to apply and tell us why you're the right fit for the job.

Benefits & Perks

At the Public Works Department with the Government of Nova Scotia, we are committed to providing a fulfilling work environment with numerous benefits and opportunities:

• Comprehensive Insurance: Gain access to health, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• Pension Plan: Secure your future with our defined benefits pension plan.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Grow professionally through our mentorship programs.
• Disability Support: Receive short- and long-term disability assistance when needed.
• Generous Time Off: Take advantage of all national/civic holidays, and family leave provisions.
• Employee and Family Support: Utilize our Employee and Family Assistance Programs for additional support.
• Career Development: Access a variety of training and development opportunities to further your career.
• Diverse Career Paths: Explore numerous career paths and opportunities across the government.

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

 This role demands physical strength and dexterity, as well as the ability to work in extreme environmental conditions. Overtime becomes necessary during installations and maintenance that may disrupt building activities by shutting down power supply and other services.”

The successful incumbent should be available to respond to emergency calls, when building systems fail or building security is compromised.

Additional Information

 As part of this role, having a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable motor vehicle is essential due to travel requirements.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless career paths.