Opportunities: Supervisor, Highway Maintenance (Oxford)

The Department of Public Works supports Nova Scotia’s 23,000 kilometres of roads and highways and 4,100 bridges. Our District Highway Operations Division plays a critical role in managing snow and ice control services, road maintenance and repair services throughout the province.

As the Supervisor, Highway Maintenance, you will report to the Operation Supervisor and oversee the day-to-day work of your crew who perform highway construction and maintenance activities. You will provide guidance to your crew and monitor their performance, ensuring quality work and adherence to safe work practices and policies.

You will be responsible for coordinating the effective and efficient utilisation of equipment and material resources used in road repair, maintenance, and snow and ice control operations. Daily, you will ensure preventive maintenance is completed. You will also conduct preliminary site investigations, identify and assess safety hazards and potential problems to infrastructure, and resolve or recommend a course of action to remedy the situation. Interaction with both the public and private sector is necessary as you assist when addressing enquiries, complaints, and requests.

During the winter season, you will supervise the Winter Snow and Ice Control Program, ensuring levels of service are maintained, as well as the safety of the motoring public and Department staff. You will assist in developing a plan of action for the Winter Works Program, which includes planning of routes, along with staffing and equipment assignments. You will also ensure stocks of road salt and traction sand are replenished and assist in coordinating the repair and maintenance of fleet equipment.

You have High School completion and a technical diploma in Civil Engineering Technology (or other related diploma) and two (2) years of related experience or High School and six (6) years related experience in road repair, construction, and maintenance; or an equivalent combination of training and experience may be acceptable. You have strong supervisory skills and previous experience leading a crew. A valid driver’s licence and acceptable driving record is required due to frequent travel.

You have knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations, highway maintenance practices, construction methods, and department specifications. Knowledge of snow and ice removal operations, along with the operations and maintenance of heavy equipment, is desirable. Familiarity in a computerised environment is necessary, including spreadsheet, word processing, and email applications. Experience working with a time reporting and/or work order generation system would be considered an asset.

You are a problem solver and innovator who generates, promotes, and implements new ideas and resolves concerns. You will adhere to and promote a safe, healthy, and engaged work culture where innovation is encouraged. You have proven and professional communication skills, both oral and written, for collaborating with Department personnel and members of the public. You have well-developed planning and organisational skills, coupled with the ability to multi-task and adapt in this fast-paced environment with competing priorities and strict deadlines.

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.

You will travel regularly throughout your designated work area, often in excess of your scheduled hours and under extreme weather conditions. You may be on 24-hour call during various seasons, including snow and ice control season, on a rotating basis and will be subject to shift work during those periods.

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