Chris Dodd, City of Vancouver
“I like the different challenges my job presents on a daily basis. With an ever growing focus on how municipalities are spending tax payers’ money, our positions allow us to learn what the public are thinking, and help us find new and better ways to improve methods.”
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Roads and Sidewalks
Chris Dodd, Superintendent II
City of Vancouver
Chris has been a Superintendent II with the City of Vancouver for 1 year, and has been in the industry for 15 years.
What does your job entail?
My responsibilities are to maintain a high level of service to the residents and businesses of the City of Vancouver. I oversee 5 Superintendents, and each has approx 20 -25 CUPE 1004 employees working for them. In addition, I provide support with employee management issues, handle hiring, delegate work amongst departments and ensure the budget is kept and met.
Describe important traits for your position:
It’s important to have clear and concise decision making skills, and the ability to communicate effectively. You must be responsive to citizens and employees, and be able to guide the management group as well as foster their learning.
What do you like most about the industry?
I like having the option and skills to move around into different positions within Parks and Public Works. This is an ever evolving industry; new technology and ideas are constantly emerging. Working for a City like Vancouver, where we have a big budget to deal with, gives us the ability to be at the leading edge with some new and exciting products like recycled rubber sidewalks, tree mats, play ground coverage and so on.
What are some other functions and duties that you perform?
We helped co-ordinate some of the sets for all of the live sites for the 2011 Canuck play offs, the Olympic venues, and Celebration of Lights and many more. I also have a transient crew that works for me providing assistance to removing structures on City property.
Describe important traits for someone considering a career in Parks and Public Works:
Patience – things take time and there is a process to everything; good work ethics – be prepared to work hard and long hours at times; listening - a skill that is often over looked yet a very effective tool when working with people that have lots of experience; good problem solving skills – problem solvers tend to make good leaders.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Parks and Public Works?
Be fair and consistent to everyone you deal with, be persistent; follow up with your employer and let them know where you want your career to be in Public Works. Be patient, as it can take time to learn the responsibilities we take on as civil employees.