Job Description

DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
STATUS: Temporary Full Time
NO. OF POSITIONS: Up to 4
UNION: CUPE, Local 387
HOURS OF WORK: 40 hours per week*
SALARY: $32.88 per hour (2024 rates)+ comprehensive benefits package

As a central hub in the Metro Vancouver area, the City of New Westminster delivers a broad spectrum of urban services to over 92,000 residents. New Westminster is rich in history with a viable and thriving economy and has a population representative of the diversity of the region. The City is staffed by talented and dedicated employees who work together to achieve its strategic vision. We have earned a proud reputation for civic leadership, service delivery, and outstanding employee relations.

The Parks and Recreation Department has opportunities for up to four skilled, self-motivated individuals who have a passion for horticulture operations. As a Horticulture Operations Labourer, your duties will include assisting the Operation Crews in planting and maintaining shrubs, perennials and annuals; cutting and maintaining lawns and grounds; assisting in the renovation and maintenance of various landscaped, horticultural areas and greenhouse operations. Duties will also include watering hanging Baskets, planters, parklets and other areas with a large water truck.
If you have the following characteristics and qualifications, we want to hear from you!
• Completion of Grade 12 (or equivalent), preferably supplemented by technical training and courses related to the work.
• Diploma in Horticulture, or a combination of related training and experience is an asset.
• Irrigation and or greenhouse experience will be an asset.
• Experience/competence navigating city streets in a large truck outfitted with a water tank and or trailer.
• Skill and knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the work.
• Ability to follow the safety precautions required in the work.
• Ability to effectively perform tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with crew members and other City departments.
• Ability to demonstrate and provide exceptional customer service skills.
• Ability to perform manual/physical labour and to work in all weather conditions.
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License and clean driver’s abstract.
• Must be able to pass and maintain a clear Police Information Check.
• Available to work a flexible work schedule as required.

These temporary assignments are expected to end on December 31, 2026, however, the length of assignment may be adjusted due to operational requirements.

This posting will be open until filled, with interviews anticipated to begin in early February 2026.

Please apply with your cover letter and resume in one document at www.newwestcity.ca/employment
We offer our employees great work-life balance, including competitive salaries, comprehensive health and wellness benefits and retirement plans (a percentage in lieu of benefits for auxiliary positions). We also offer a hybrid remote work schedule in accordance with our Remote Work Policy, opportunities for education and training, and engaging, rewarding work.

To support a workforce that reflects the diversity of our community; women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized individuals, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (LGBTQ2S+), persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to diversity of our workforce, are encouraged to express their interest.
New Westminster is on the unceded and unsurrendered land of the Halq’eméylem-speaking peoples. It is acknowledged by the City that colonialism has made invisible their histories and connections to the land.
We are learning and building relationships with the people whose lands we are on.
We thank all applicants for their interest and advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada.

Required languages: english

Education level: • Completion of Grade 12 (or equivalent), preferably supplemented by technical training and courses related to the work. • Diploma in Horticulture, or a combination of related training and experience is an asset.

Required skills: • Irrigation and or greenhouse experience will be an asset. • Experience/competence navigating city streets in a large truck outfitted with a water tank and or trailer. • Skill and knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the work. • Ability to follow the safety precautions required in the work. • Ability to effectively perform tasks with minimal supervision. • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with crew members and other City departments.

Additional skills / Assets: • Ability to demonstrate and provide exceptional customer service skills. • Ability to perform manual/physical labour and to work in all weather conditions. • Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License and clean driver’s abstract. • Must be able to pass and maintain a clear Police Information Check. • Available to work a flexible work schedule as required.

Closest intersection: Royal Ave and 6th Street