Parks and Open Space Supervisor

Job Type: Full-Time Permanent

Job Posting #: 2025-22

Department: Community Services

Location: Owen Sound, Ontario

The City of Owen Sound is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional for the Parks & Open Space Supervisor role. This full-time position operates under the guidance of the Manager of Parks and Open Space and is pivotal in supervising the Parks and Cemetery divisions. Key responsibilities include overseeing long-term development and planning of City-owned parkland, cemeteries, and open spaces, and supervising daily operations across diverse areas such as cemeteries, horticulture, parks, urban forestry, playgrounds, trails and more.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supervision & Compliance:
2. Lead the Parks and Open Space staff, ensuring compliance with all City management policies, procedures, and health/safety practices.
3. Conduct inspections and enforce safe work procedures.
4. Operational Management:
5. Oversee daily operations, including cemeteries, parks, trails, and special events.
6. Purchase supplies/equipment per City policies and ensure efficient operations within budget.
7. Planning & Coordination:
8. Liaison with other City departments for coordinated work efforts.
9. Assist in the development of maintenance schedules, standard procedures, and budget planning.
10. Staff Development:
11. Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate front-line staff.
12. Recommend and implement training programs to enhance performance.
13. Customer Service & External Relations:
14. Maintain good public relations and corporate image.
15. Respond to public and agency queries related to Parks and Cemetery services.

Qualifications:

1. Education:
2. Diploma in Landscape, Recreation & Leisure, Horticultural, Forestry, or related disciplines.
3. Experience:
4. Minimum of five years of progressive experience in public park operations.
5. Experience in a unionized municipal environment is an asset.
6. Certifications Preferred:
7. Ontario Parks Association or Ontario Recreation Facilities Association Parks Professional Designation
8. Cemetery Operations Certificate
9. Certified Playground Inspector or Registered Playground Practitioner
10. Certified Pool Inspector

1. Core Competencies:
2. Strong leadership abilities, adept at managing conflicts effectively.
3. Proficient in scheduling and project management.
4. Strong knowledge of relevant legislation and equipment.
5. Excellent communication, public relations, and customer service skills.
6. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with database systems like Perfect Mind, CLASS, Arc GIS, or Stone Orchard would be beneficial.
7. Experience with urban forestry, arboriculture, and turf management

Salary Range: $37.04 - $45.17 hourly (under review)

Why Owen Sound?

Enjoy the perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty. With access to a bustling arts scene, diverse culinary experiences, and numerous outdoor activities, Owen Sound is the ideal place to live and work.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their applications by Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 4:30 p.m via the City’s Careers Page. We are committed to inclusive and barrier-free recruitment, encouraging applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

The City of Owen Sound values diversity and is committed to providing an inclusive workplace. We will accommodate the needs of applicants in accordance with the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act throughout the hiring process.

Privacy Statement:

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act for the purpose of candidate selection. It will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.