NATURE OF WORK

Reporting to the Parks Manager, the Sports Field Groundskeeper is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of outdoor sports and recreational facilities, including ball fields, soccer pitches, and court spaces. This work is carried out in accordance with accepted horticultural practices and industry standards.

During the winter season, the Sports Field Groundskeeper supports the operation of outdoor recreational sites by maintaining ice rinks and assisting with snow clearing to ensure safe and accessible trails at designated winter locations. These efforts help provide residents with safe access to recreational activities and promote outdoor use throughout the winter months.

The Sports Field Groundskeeper utilizes their expertise in sports field management to identify areas of concern, anticipate maintenance and repair needs, and apply best practices to ensure user safety, high-quality playing conditions, and a positive, inclusive recreational experience for all users.

Turf Management: Applies turf management practices, including surface recovery and repair, to maintain healthy, safe, and visually appealing playing surfaces that support optimal playability and enhance overall user satisfaction.

Irrigation Systems: Applies irrigation principles, including the design, installation, inspection, operation, and repair of irrigation systems. Adjusts watering schedules in accordance with regional water usage guidelines and assists with forecasting water requirements to sustain field quality and usability.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the supervision of assigned supervisor/manager within applicable department. Ability to perform the work under minimal supervision.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Will provide instruction, direction, information and/or supervision of other employees and contractors as designated.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Inspects, assesses, and monitors sports fields and recreational facilities to identify issues; records conditions; and recommends or implements maintenance solutions to ensure safety, accessibility, and readiness for casual use, organized sports, and community events throughout the season.
• Prepares and maintains sports fields and amenities for scheduled games, tournaments, and special events, ensuring facilities meet required standards and timelines.
• Identifies and implements proactive and corrective methods to ensure safe, high-quality playing surfaces, including turf, infields, and warning tracks; performs repairs, grooming, sweeping, and line painting as required.
• Performs turf management activities including planting, overseeding, aerating, top dressing, trimming, weed control, treating, watering, fertilizing, and irrigating municipally owned sports fields and green spaces.
• Maintains and services recreational amenities and infrastructure, including washrooms/outhouses, garbage receptacles, dugouts, goal posts, bases, courts, bleachers, fencing, and related assets.
• Participates in seasonal operations including snow and ice control and maintenance of outdoor recreational amenities such as rink surfaces and trails.
• Assists Recreation staff with the setup, implementation, and maintenance of outdoor recreational programs and events (e.g., Winter Fest, Frostivals, Learn to Play Pickleball, snowshoe tours).
• Monitors field and weather conditions and recommends or implements temporary closures to protect user safety and prevent damage; advises management on playing conditions and weather-related impacts.
• Responds to urgent maintenance and safety issues, including those related to weather, vandalism, and equipment failure.
• Provides courteous and professional service to the public; responds to inquiries, investigates complaints, and recommends appropriate remedial action to support a safe and positive user experience.
• Develops and implements service standards and contributes to planning for sports field and facility management at designated locations.
• Assists with budget planning, work planning, and development of seasonal sport field and amenity management plans.
• Maintains accurate records of maintenance activities, field conditions, irrigation usage, and asset inventories using applicable tracking systems.
• Performs or coordinates routine maintenance and minor repairs on tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Applies environmentally responsible practices in turf and irrigation management, including water conservation, soil health, and appropriate use of fertilizers and treatments.
• Assists with ordering, receiving, and maintaining inventory of materials, supplies, and equipment required for operations.
• Assists in the development and implementation of Safe Work Procedures and Safe Operating Guidelines.
• Ensures completion of required safety documentation, including pre-trip inspections, hazard and risk assessments, and pre-job safety meetings.
• Assists in the training and orientation of staff, including seasonal employees.
• Creates presentations and supports educational or awareness initiatives as required.
• Contributes to a positive work environment by modelling a respectful workplace, as per City policy.
• Takes reasonable care to protect the health and safety of themselves and the health and safety of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work.  Properly wears protective clothing, devises and equipment provided, and ensures hazards are immediately reported to supervisors.  Complies with the City of Fort St John’s Occupational Health and Safety program and all applicable polices and procedures.
• Performs related duties as required.

PERFORMANCE FACTORS

• Knowledge, Ability and Skills
• Customer Service
• Quantity of Work
• Cooperation
• Reliability
• Attendance and Punctuality
• Compliance
• Health & Safety