Deadline to Apply: February 9, 2026
APC - CUPE Local 500
Term, Full-Time
About Assiniboine Park Conservancy
Creating the future vision for one of Winnipeg’s most prized treasures, Assiniboine Park Conservancy (APC) located at 55 Pavilion Crescent in Winnipeg is the not-for-profit organization that oversees Assiniboine Park’s operations and ensures its ongoing redevelopment and financial viability. Our team is inspired to create and deliver extraordinary experiences for the people who visit and use the Park and Zoo including building friendly, supportive, effective relationships with stakeholders, community and the general public.
The Opportunity
We are seeing one (1) 6-mth term arborist who will assist in the hands-on maintenance and development of the trees, shrubs, and forests throughout the Park; maintaining the quality standards of arboriculture practice as it relates to tree maintenance and aesthetics required of a public garden; and preserving the integrity of the approved Horticulture Master Plan.
The incumbent will perform skilled arboricultural work and equipment operation in the maintenance of a very diverse collection of Ornamental and Native woody plant material, including Riparian forest Oak/Aspen forest and Boreal Forest area management. Responsibilities include: keeping records and performing related duties including preparation of reports, monitoring for disease and insects, properly installing trees, and shrubs, including establishment maintenance programs, maintenance of existing trees; through proper pruning, watering and fertilization programs, removal of dead dying or diseased trees. Additional responsibilities include: sweep up of debris, grounds free of litter, and other related duties as required. The incumbent will be required to work and coordinate with other horticulture team and zoo teams to ensure that the lawns are mowed, hedges are trimmed, and trees and shrubs are pruned.
The incumbent may occasionally be responsible for leading a crew of Gardeners or volunteers and has input into planting planning and maintenance of all Park trees and forested areas, and will be required to keep ongoing records of designated work areas.
Responsibilities
- Participate in the ongoing maintenance and management of the Park’s forests, shrubs and trees.
- Perform highly skilled arboricultural work and maintain a diverse collection of plants (hardy and non-hardy).
- Climb trees to prune- use appropriate rigging and cabling techniques and assist as ground support for staff climbing.
- Follow garden designs/plans for installation of trees, shrub plantings and landscape features.
- Cooperate in the creation of accurate tree inventory.
- Maintain the tools, equipment, and necessary supplies for work areas to function at full capacity.
- Implement an appropriate IPM program in accordance with APC’s environmental program.
- Respond to emergency call out situations, which may include snow removal.
- Work with Horticulture Supervisor (Forestry) to coordinate daily, monthly and annual maintenance schedules.
- Work with Horticulture Supervisor (Forestry) to ensure, materials equipment, safety gear etc. required for daily tasks is available, well maintained, clean and safe.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A high school diploma and/or GED equivalent, preference given to those who have completed a post-secondary education in green space management, or a related field.
- Must possess a valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License.
- Must possess a valid Manitoba Pruning and Chainsaw License.
- A minimum of five years tree experience.
- Ability to obtain or have a current International Society of Arboriculture Certification
- Ability to obtain a valid Manitoba Pesticide Applicators License.
- Certification in related horticultural practices or specializations would be considered an asset.
- Supervisory experience is considered an asset.
- Must have basic mechanical aptitude for the operation of small engine machines, equipment and tools. Confidence and knowledge in the use of hand and power gardening tools, chainsaws and all hand saws, secateurs, loppers, hedge trimmers etc.
- Must be able to demonstrate extensive knowledge of woody and native herbaceous plant materials including vines, climbers, and allies.
- Experience in operating medium to heavy equipment, including chippers.
- Ability to demonstrate excellent knowledge of woody plants and garden design.
- Basic technology and computer skills.
- Proficiency with appropriate computer programs for record keeping and administrative tasks.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
- Physically demanding and repetitive tasks.
- Must be able to perform physically strenuous work outdoors in all types of weather.
- Combination of sitting, standing, stretching, pushing, lifting, kneeling, climbing and walking for extended periods.
- Frequently handling heavy loads of up to 45-50 lbs.
- Must be able to push/pull 50-250 lbs.
- Noise exposure from operations, mechanical equipment and animal vocalizations.
- Exposure to strong scents from animals and chemical products.
- Contact with plants and animals which may cause allergic reactions.
- Working at heights.
APC Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Assiniboine Park Conservancy is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. Employment Equity may be a factor in selection for this competition. Consideration will be given to Indigenous people, racialized minorities, women and persons with disabilities.
Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.
