Foreperson – Roads

The City of St. John’s is presently accepting applications from highly motivated individuals for full-time temporary positions of Foreperson with the Roads Division, Department of Public Works for the upcoming winter season. The period of employment will be from December 2026 – April 2027.

Reporting to the Operations Supervisor or the Operations Engineer in the Roads Division, these positions will work as part of a team responsible for street and sidewalk maintenance, including snow and ice control.

Accountabilities

• Supervision and Coordination
  • Supervise, direct, and deploy staff and equipment.
  • Schedule work and workforce for maximum efficiency and cost effectiveness.
  • Be familiar with the infrastructure and equipment assigned to the Foreperson.
• Safety and Compliance
  • Ensure work site safety, conduct toolbox talks, and understand supervisory responsibilities under OH&S regulations and procedures.
  • Ensure necessary permits and traffic control plans are in place for safe work sites. Notify the public of traffic interruptions as per Division policy.
  • Understand and implement the Collective Agreement where applicable.
• Communication and Collaboration
  • Communicate and cooperate with City personnel, contractors, the public, and public utilities as required.
  • Submit written and verbal reports, maintain a daily journal.
  • Maintain computerized database and complaints systems information.
• Inspection and Maintenance
  • Inspect and maintain all property and works, considering weather impacts on City infrastructure. Document results.
  • Ensure availability of equipment and materials for maintenance activities or repairs.
  • Conduct inspections, investigations, prepare reports and recommend corrective actions as required.
• Flexibility and Responsiveness
  • Respond to emergency callouts at any time, as per City or Division procedures.
  • Be willing to work extended shifts and take on tasks to balance the team workload.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

The successful applicant will be required to participate in all training programs applicable to this position and other related work. The above statements reflect the general duties considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job identified and shall not be considered a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the job.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma with a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology or Journeyperson Certificate in Heavy Equipment Operation.
  • Minimum of five years supervisory experience in public works or a related field.
  • Knowledge of heavy equipment operation and experience in snow and ice control are assets.
• Skills and Abilities
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to interact tactfully and diplomatically with others.
  • Strong prioritization, multitasking, and troubleshooting skills in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge and Compliance
  • Understanding of WHSCC Legislation, Highway Traffic Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations, and Human Rights Legislation.
• Licensing and Training
  • Valid Class 5 Driver's License required; willingness to obtain a Class 3 Driver's License with air brake endorsement shortly after hiring.
  • Prepared to complete additional training for other classes and endorsements.

An equivalent combination of education, training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and skills, may be considered.

Working Conditions

This position requires outdoor work and could involve responding to severe weather conditions such as flooding, winter events, and windstorms. Extended periods of shift work and extensive overtime. Travel throughout the City is required to visit work sites and developments while working near high traffic zones and often in adverse conditions.

Physical Requirements

This position is classified as safety-sensitive. The City of St. John’s has a comprehensive Alcohol and Drug Policy to ensure fitness for work and the completion of a satisfactory alcohol and drug test is a mandatory pre-employment requirement.

Hours of Work

Rotating shift work as needed for 24/7 winter operations.

We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. However, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. The City of St. John's does not accept applications in person, by email, fax or mail. Applications will be received up to 12:00 Midnight (Newfoundland Standard Time) on closing date.

This City of St. John's is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the employment of a qualified workforce which reflects the community's diversity.