General Foreperson

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Executive Horticulturist and/or Senior Parks and Landscape Officer, the post holder will be responsible for the management and supervision of Parks Department operations and supervisory staff within their designated area, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of parks maintenance and related services.

DUTIES

Under the direction and supervision of the Executive Horticulturist and/or Senior Parks and Landscape Officer, or other appropriate officer, the post holder will undertake a supervisory role in the management, operation and maintenance of the Parks Department.

Duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Organising, allocating and supervising work to ensure the effective and efficient management and maintenance of parks, open spaces and associated facilities within the designated area.

• Maintaining accurate records of materials, work activities, operational matters and Health and Safety documentation relating to the day-to-day activities of the Parks Department.

• Managing and monitoring all aspects of staff performance, including discipline, competence, timekeeping, attendance and compliance with Health and Safety policies and procedures.

• Preparing and providing written reports, including typed reports, and verbal updates on operational activities and other matters as required.

• Conducting Toolbox Talks and carrying out regular Health and Safety inspections to promote safe working practices and ensure compliance with relevant policies and procedures.

• Using computer-based systems, technology and other relevant resources to support the effective operation, monitoring and management of Parks Department activities.

• Liaising and consulting with community groups, local organisations and other relevant interest groups in relation to parks and open spaces.

• Deal with queries and complaints from members of the public in a courteous, prompt, and efficient manner and to keep their line manager or other designated officer informed of such dealings.

• Arranging and overseeing the procurement of goods and services required for the effective operation and maintenance of the Parks Department, in accordance with relevant Council procedures.

• Participating in the Council’s call-out and Coordinator system, as required.

• Undertaking any other duties appropriate to the post as may be assigned from time to time.

The above duties are not intended to be a comprehensive list of all responsibilities associated with the post. Accordingly, the post holder may be required to undertake other duties appropriate to the role, as assigned from time to time, and to contribute to the ongoing development and evolution of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE POST

Character

Candidates shall be of good character.

Health

Candidates shall be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.

Education, Experience, etc.

Candidates must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms, meet the following requirements:

• Hold at a minimum, an Advanced Certificate in Horticulture (QQI Level 6), or equivalent qualification in Horticulture/Arboriculture, and/or a minimum of 5 years’ experience in parks, landscape, horticultural, or grounds maintenance operations.

• Have a good general education and the ability to prepare written reports, maintain records and complete returns as required.

• Have suitable knowledge and experience of staff management and supervision, including the organisation, allocation and coordination of work.

• Have a satisfactory knowledge of the management and maintenance of parks operations, including grass cutting, tree management, seasonal floral planting and other associated horticultural activities.

• Have a satisfactory understanding of Health and Safety requirements in the workplace and the ability to implement and promote safe working practices.

• Have experience of communicating and interacting effectively with members of the public and other sections of the Council.

• Have the ability and aptitude to use computer-based systems and other technologies, including email, word processing, spreadsheets and relevant operational systems, or be willing to undertake any necessary training or upskilling.

• Have experience in the safe use, operation and care of tools, machinery and equipment relevant to parks maintenance and horticultural operations.

Driving License

Candidates must hold a current full Category B driving licence, free from disqualification and medical restrictions that would prevent them from safely undertaking the duties of the post.

Any subsequent disqualification from driving must be notified to the Council and may result in appropriate action, which may include suspension, demotion or other disciplinary measures, in accordance with the Council’s policies and procedures.

Safe Pass

Candidates must hold a current Safe Pass card.

Desirable Skills and Competencies

Candidates should be able to demonstrate the following skills and competencies:

• Supervision and Leadership: The ability to effectively supervise, organise and motivate staff, allocate workloads and ensure the efficient delivery of operational activities.

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively on a one-to-one basis with staff, members of the public, community groups and other relevant stakeholders.

• Flexibility and Problem-Solving: The ability to demonstrate flexibility, exercise sound judgement and respond promptly and effectively to changing circumstances, including emergencies, staffing issues and operational service requirements.

• Managing Conflict: The ability to address and manage conflict constructively, resolve workplace issues and maintain positive working relationships.

• Delivering Quality Work and Services: The ability to organise and oversee work to ensure services are delivered efficiently, effectively and to a high standard.

• Health, Safety and Welfare at Work: A strong understanding of, and commitment to, safe working practices and the promotion of a positive health and safety culture.

Salary

The salary scale for the post is:

€54,497 – €55,081 – €55,365 – €55,681 – €55,981 – €56,138 – €56,288 – €56,444 – €56,602 – €56,846 – €57,038 – €57,499 (Max)

In accordance with Departmental Circular Letter EL 02/2011, a person who is not a serving local authority employee on or after 1st January 2011 will enter the scale at the minimum point.

Hours of Duty

• The standard working week is 35 hours per week. The role may, on occasion, require evening or weekend work.

• Holders of the post may be required to attend for duty at any time, in accordance with arrangements made by the local authority. The Council reserves the right to alter hours of work from time to time.

• All hours worked will be subject to the provisions of the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 and the Organisation of Working Time (Regulations) Act, 2001.