Parks Technician

City-of-Penticton; Penticton; On-site; CAD 86,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extended health, dental, and vision

Relocation assistance

3 weeks of vacation starting on day 1

2 weeks of paid sick leave annually

On-site parking

Professional development support

Community recreation pass

Job summary

City of Penticton is seeking a permanent, full-time Parks Technician based in Penticton, BC. The role focuses on implementing the UFMP and leading the Parks GIS program, including asset data and digital records.

The position supports capital projects, asset management, and collaborates with Engineering and external consultants. A post-secondary degree in Geography/GIS or related field, and 1–3 years Esri experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary degree with a specialization in Geography, GIS, Urban Forestry, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Studies, or equivalent.
• Minimum 1–3 years related experience with Esri products (ArcGIS) and data management.
• 1–2 years landscape construction, urban forestry or municipal experience is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Implement UFMP actions and Parks-related plans and initiatives.
• Lead Parks GIS program: data, mapping, apps, dashboards, and data integrity.
• Provide technical guidance to staff; coordinate with Engineering and external consultants.
• Draft specifications using AutoCAD/Civil3D; assist procurement for parks projects.
• Monitor UFMP progress; prepare reports for long-term planning and Council.

Skills

GIS software

AutoCAD/Civil3D

Geospatial analysis

Project coordination

Education

Geography / GIS degree

Urban Forestry / planning background

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

ArcMap

Esri platforms

AutoCAD/Civil3D

Job description

Penticton is a vibrant, innovative waterfront city known for its commitment to sustainability, community well-being, and economic opportunity. With a strong focus on good governance, collaboration, and service excellence, the City is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.As one of the most active development regions in British Columbia, Penticton features a diverse mix of large-scale and complex construction projects.

Penticton has been recognized as one of Canada’s most livable cities, according to latest rankings by The Globe and Mail, ranked as the eighth most livable medium-sized city in Canada. Nationally, Penticton earned high marks for access to amenities (11th in Canada), #11 for midlife transitions and #11 for retirement, as well as #13 for young professionals. Penticton also placed within the top 20 in the categories of raising kids (#19), contributing to an overall ranking of 35th across Canada. Rooted in agriculture and surrounded by natural beauty, Penticton is known for its orchards, wineries, and craft breweries—making it one of Canada’s top wine destinations. More than 100 years since its incorporation, Penticton continues to grow as a place to live, work, and play.

The City of Penticton is looking for a permanent full-time Parks Technician based in Penticton, B.C. in our Parks Department.

The Parks branch of Public Works is responsible for the development, operation, and maintenance of the parks, beaches, sports fields, trails, and cemeteries within our community. Under the general direction of the Parks Capital Projects Supervisor, the Parks Technician plays a key role in implementing and advancing the City's Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP), while leading the maintenance, enhancement, and development of Parks GIS systems, asset data, and digital information.

This position also supports capital project coordination, asset management, and collaborates closely with Engineering, Development Services, Operations staff, and external consultants to support daily operational activities and implement various park programs. This position will involve year-round indoor and outside work.

This position will primarily focus on the City's Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP). Having education or experience in Urban Forestry would be advantageous.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement the recommended actions outlined in the UFMP, as well as other Parks-related plans and initiatives.
• Perform duties associated with an urban forest management program including providing technical guidance, instruction and direction of assigned work crews, supporting urban forest inventories, tree preservation initiatives, canopy enhancement strategies, and urban forestry best practices.
• Lead the Parks GIS program including monitoring, maintaining and updating all Parks department asset management data, mapping, apps and digital records. Ensure data integrity and support data-driven decision making across Parks operations and planning functions.
• Performs advanced GIS work in support of urban forestry and planning initiatives, including the development and maintenance of geospatial databases, tree inventory systems, web applications, dashboards, and mapping products using ESRI platforms. Conducts spatial analysis, Python-based automation, data modelling, geoprocessing, workflow automation, canopy assessment, asset management analysis, data integration, data conversion, and quality assurance.
• Edit, revise, and update existing ArcMap and Esri digital maps using Esri/ArcGIS software (ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise & Field Maps). Maintain quality control and inspect final compositions to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Lead Parks’ engagement programs including educational programs, presentations, stakeholder relations, and other community outreach initiatives. Develop and deliver public education initiatives that support urban forestry, environmental stewardship, and community awareness of Parks programs and services.
• Administer Parks projects, construction and maintenance contracts relating to Parks improvements and development.
• Research new methods, services, materials and equipment, prepare cost estimates, and recommend materials/equipment purchases.
• Perform drafting tasks, and preparation of specifications using AutoCAD/Civil3D and help prepare procurement documents for various related maintenance or construction projects.
• Monitor, track and report on Urban Forest Management Plan implementation progress, performance measures, and program outcomes to support long-term planning and Council reporting
• Respond to inquiries from staff, contractors, user groups, and the public, maintaining courteous and positive public relations.
• Direct, assist and provide technical support to staff engaged in technical aspects of Parks operations.
• Write detailed analytical reports and proposals as required.
• Perform related work as required.

This role is a great fit for someone who enjoys working with diverse clientele, solving problems related to environmental change and city growth, and can withstand multiple deadlines and priorities.

Required Knowledge, Abilities & Skills:

• Strong technical aptitude, including the ability to operate and troubleshoot GIS software, computer systems, iPads, GPS units, and other digital field data collection tools.
• Demonstrable experience using AutoCAD/Civil3D.
• Considerable knowledge of best practices and trends in urban forestry, planning, landscape design and sustainability.
• Knowledge of tree species selection, arboricultural practices, urban forest management principles, tree risk assessment, and climate resilience strategies would be considered an asset.
• Ability to manage several projects at one time in a fast-paced environment and participate effectively in a creative team setting.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as presentation skills using Microsoft Office Products.
• Ability to occasionally lift or carry objects of up to 25lbs in all weather conditions.

Required Education, Training & Experience:

• Post-secondary degree with a specialization in Geography, GIS, Urban Forestry, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Studies, or other recognized equivalent.
• Minimum 1-3 years related experience with Esri products or ArcGIS Server software (i.e. data integration, developing geodatabases, schemas, applications, dashboards and managing and maintaining geospatial datasets). A combination of related education and experience may be considered.
• 1-2 years of work experience in landscape construction, urban forestry and/or maintenance in a municipal or equivalent environment, or related fields is an asset.
• Valid BC Drivers' License Class 5.

About the Benefits

Compensation based on skills and experience is anhourly rate of $41.58 - $46.22 (Pay Grad e 15, 40 hours per week, CUPE), along with a host of excellent benefits including:

• Extended health, dental, and vision coverage
• Relocation assistance
• 3 weeks of vacation starting on day one
• 2 weeks of paid sick leave annually
• Up to $200 in annual fitness rebates
• Free community recreation pass (swimming, fitness, etc.)
• Support for professional development, including yearly conference budget
• Free on-site parking
• Draws for tickets to local concerts, hockey games, and employee appreciation events
• Wellness initiatives and team-building activities
• A picturesque waterfront location with access to world-class outdoor recreation and a progressive, community-oriented work culture

At the City of Penticton, we recognize that great talent and great ideas come from a variety of backgrounds. Tapping into the diversity of our community makes us all stronger and allows us to serve Penticton even better.

That's why we welcome all applicants to consider joining our team. We encourage Indigenous persons, people of colour, all genders and expressions, 2SLGBT2QIA+, persons living with disabilities, and others who reflect our ever-changing workplace to apply. If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know, we'd be happy to support you!

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada.

Life in Penticton

Nestled between two lakes, Penticton enjoys long, hot summers, dry winters and more than 2,000 hours of sunshine each year. We’re located in the southern Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, which is easily accessed by major highways and airports.

We're known for our beaches, wine and orchards, not to mention a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. Hop on your bike to discover award-winning wineries and trails with stellar views. Shop at the bustling outdoor market, peruse art galleries or go skating at the modern Community Centre. Ski champagne powder slopes or take in a hockey game or concert at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Penticton is located on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people. Its name, from the Interior Salish word snpintktn, is commonly translated as "a place to stay forever," or more accurately, “a place where people live year-round.” It’s the kind of place where people come to visit for the holidays – and never want to leave.