Do you have knowledge and understanding of and experience with new, emerging or existing practices, products, technology, and research and innovation related to soil management with a focus on the horticulture sector? Do you want to play a key role in supporting the competitiveness of Ontario's agri-food sector? If so, consider this opportunity to join a dynamic highly qualified team of specialists providing knowledge translation and transfer, assessing and applying new research and technologies, and encouraging adoption of best practices with the aim of helping Ontario's horticulture sector, remain competitive and sustainable.
Soil management is a critical component of agricultural production, nutrient management and resiliency to climate change. Help us transform new research and ideas into practical programs, products and services which will ensure Ontario's agricultural sector remains competitive and environmentally responsible both now and into the future.
The Ministry: The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness helps to build a stronger agri-food sector by investing in the development and transfer of innovative technologies, retaining and attracting investment, developing markets, providing regulatory oversight, and providing effective risk management tools.
The Branch:The Agriculture Development Branch is responsible for dealing with issues and challenges relating to agricultural production (crops and livestock). The branch promotes high quality agricultural production through the application of best management practices, and plant and animal health strategies to ensure a competitive and environmentally responsible agri-food sector.
How we support diversity, inclusion and accessibility
We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the
OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the
OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's
Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.
About the job
As a Provincial Specialist for soil management in the horticulture sector, you will:
• Lead Ontario's technology transfer activities through the development, coordination and implementation of strategies, policies and programs.
• Provide an effective liaison between the research community and industry to determine the applicability of new, emerging and innovative technologies.
• Develop seminars and courses, electronic and print information packages as well as design demonstrations of new, emerging and innovative techniques and products.
• Facilitate delivery of program information services, education and training across commodities and disciplines to facilitate change.
• Represent Provincial or Ministry interests on multidisciplinary working groups.
• Provide expertise to senior management regarding the development, coordination, and implementation of strategies, policies, and programs related to soil management for the Ontario horticulture sector.
• Maintain regular contact with clients and partners and develop coalitions and networks.
• Review and assess leading-edge agricultural research and practices from around the world and adapt the findings to Ontario industry needs.
What you bring to the team
Mandatory requirements:
• In order to conduct site visits at rural and remote locations, you must hold a valid class 'G' driver's license or equivalent as recognized by the Province of Ontario.
Technical knowledge:
You have:
• Expert knowledge of scientific theories, principles and practices related to horticulture soil management.
• Expert knowledge of production practices and economics within horticultural soil management to develop expert leading edge information and educational materials that will assist clients with improving their competitive position.
• Knowledge of current economic development issues, research accomplishments, environmental impacts and issues, production practices, marketing trends and theories as well as programs and services provided provincially, nationally and internationally by governments, universities and private institutions in horticulture production.
Research and Analytical Skills:
You have:
• Knowledge of research methods and practices in order to investigate viability and applicability of new methods, techniques and technology, analyze validity of research findings, prepare reports and provide recommendations on their suitability and applicability for Ontario conditions.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to assess information, education and training needs of agriculture and rural clients, and provide information, services and alternative innovative strategies and solutions.
• Evaluative skills to investigate issues, new trends and developments related to horticulture soil management.
Communication and interpersonal skills:
You can:
• Communicate effectively in writing through the compilation and preparation of technical reports, briefing notes, articles, and electronic media
•Establish and enhance partnerships and networks to facilitate program delivery, sharing of information, education and training
•Develop and maintain effective provincial, national and international working relationships, and demonstrated ability to develop partnerships with clients
• Present information, outline options/recommendations on how technologies, policies and programs can be applied, facilitate understanding and promote acceptance.
Educational and Training skills:
You have:
• Knowledge of techniques and methods of adult education and training in order to develop educational and training materials for clients and colleagues as well as conduct training on new products and techniques
• Knowledge of consultation and group facilitation techniques as well as needs assessment techniques and program evaluation methods
Project Management and Organizational Skills:
You can:
• Manage concurrent projects and activities.
• Plan and coordinate activities in consultation with clients and stakeholders.
• Identify time and resource requirements in order to address agriculture issues.