Trades Foreman (M/F)

(Formerly: Trades Foreman)

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

A Trades Foreman supervises, directs and coordinates the day-to-day work of employees in various classifications, as well as contractors. Although their primary responsibilities are in administration, supervision and direction, they may also work as members of the crew for which they are responsible.

Work involves estimating, planning, obtaining licences or permits, scheduling work, ordering materials, scheduling delivery of materials to job sites, supervision of the work, evaluation of employees under the foreman's supervision, maintaining records for job costing and operating computer equipment to input and retrieve data, as required. Employees in this classification are responsible for the timely completion of assigned work within the budget. A Trades Foreman provides on-the-job training to employees, as required.

Working and supervisory experience within the trade is necessary. Work is performed under minimal supervision and considerable independence of judgement and action is required in the discharge of a foreman's duties, although unusual problems may be referred to a manager or designate. Responsibilities may vary depending on area of assignment.

A Trades Foreman reports to Management.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Estimates, plans, coordinates and schedules work. Secures permits and licences, as required. Orders required equipment and materials and arranges delivery of same. Assigns, directs, coordinates work, and supervises through to completion. Maintains cost records and ensures that projects are within budget (or estimate) and are completed within the specified time.

Assists Managers or designate in the interviewing and final selection of job applicants. Familiarizes new employees with District procedures.

Recommends materials required for warehouse stocking and authorizes the issuance of warehouse stock to subordinates.

Prepares draft specifications for the selection and purchase of equipment, tools and vehicles.

Utilizes computer equipment and software applications to input and retrieve project, maintenance and related work information.

Liaises with district staff and external agencies in the performance of job-related duties.

Provides training in new techniques or methods to assigned staff.

Supervises and evaluates work of assigned staff, ensures competency and takes responsibility to recommend changes, improvements and/or direction with respect to assigned staff.

Interprets drawings, sketches and rough drafts, and provides as-built sketches of changes and updates, as required.

Recommends, develops and applies new or improved work techniques and methods employed in the applicable trade.

Keeps informed of techniques used by the trade supervised, and provides technical advice and instructions to subordinates. Ensures that work is completed within standards established by the District and that all applicable codes, by-laws, policies and regulations are met.

Coordinates work of trade being supervised with the work of other classifications and/or contractors. Consults with foremen and others in this regard. Works as a member of the crew within the area being supervised, as required. Takes initiative to train and assist others in completing assigned tasks.

Checks time sheets for accuracy and completeness; reviews and approves invoices for payment; reviews and submits District forms; and makes recommendations on employee leaves of absence for assigned staff.

Enforces safety regulations, including WCB occupational health and safety regulations and District safety practices, policies and procedures.

Ensures vehicles and equipment utilized by workers are maintained in good operating condition.

Drives a District vehicle to and from job sites.

Performs related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Up-to-date knowledge of trade standard practices, methods, technology, tools, equipment, by-laws, regulations and codes applicable to the work performed.

Knowledge of WHMIS, WCB occupational health and safety regulations, and District safe work practices, policies and procedures to perform work requirements within the trade.

Skill in staff supervision, including the ability to train, direct, assist, schedule, monitor and evaluate and report on the quality and quantity of subordinate's work.

Ability to plan, lay out, coordinate, assign, direct and supervise the work of assigned workers, other employees and contractors where applicable.

Skilled in the use of tools, techniques, materials and equipment employed by the trade and crews concerned.

Ability to prepare reports and maintain necessary records.

Ability to prepare necessary working drawings, prepare estimates, schedule and plan the work of the section.

Ability to work closely with and supervise others.

Ability to evaluate the work of subordinates and to prepare evaluation/performance reports.

Ability to operate computer equipment and applicable software.

Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing and the ability to understand and carry out oral/written instructions accurately with minimal supervision.

Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with assigned workers, other employees and contractors and to provide direction to others, as required.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of grade 12 or equivalent plus completion of apprenticeship program in an

applicable trade, from an institute recognized by the District.

Five years' recent related experience in the applicable trade as a tradesman, including supervision of others.

or

An equivalent level of training and experience.

LICENCES, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATIONS

Trade Qualification (TQ) or BC Licence, as required for applicable trade, plus special endorsement, Class A ticket in applicable trade.

Valid Class 5 B.C. Driver's Licence.