Deadline to Apply: February 9, 2026
APC - CUPE Local 500
Seasonal, 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 seeking two (2) full-time, seasonal crew leader's working primarily within the Horticulture department. This position will take direction and be under the supervision of either a Lead Gardener or Horticulture Supervisor. The Crew Leaders’ responsibilities include many elements of the day-to-day maintenance of horticultural aspects across Assiniboine Park; maintaining the quality standards of horticulture practice and aesthetics required of a public garden.
The incumbents will be responsible for being the crew leader of Specialized General Labourers Seasonal and General Labourers, and has input into day-to-day task planning, and will be required to keep ongoing records of their designated work area. All responsibilities of the incumbent are as per the direct and daily instructions of either a Lead Gardener or the Horticulture Supervisor. The incumbent will also perform horticultural work in the maintenance of a very diverse collection of plant material along with their team. A Crew Leader may be assigned to work anywhere throughout the Park and Zoo.
Responsibilities
- Create work plans, establish work priorities and tasks with the Lead Gardener and/or Horticulture Supervisor for assigned horticulture areas.
- Work with available resources to meet daily seasonal fluctuations in workload to obtain maximum efficiencies and assist in the oversight of the timely implementation of all horticulture projects.
- Oversee the training and work quality performed by the Specialized General Labourers Seasonal, General Labourers and Volunteers.
- Ensure standards of performance and work quality of team members.
- Lead high profile and/or specialty horticultural assignments to meet the needs and requirements of a public garden.
- Provide input in the annual design and planning process for high profile and/or specialty horticultural assignments, using site appropriate plant selections and landscape materials.
- Lead the garden displays in assigned areas to the highest level of aesthetics, plant health, and educational value.
- Develop and evaluate work methods and procedures and in turn recommend changes as required.
- Plant annual, perennial, shrubs, and bulbs in selected locations as per planting plans, schedules and timelines, ensuring plants are properly staked when required.
- Seed, divide, propagate, and transplant plant material within both the production facilities and gardens.
- Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A high school diploma and/or GED equivalent.
- Preference is given to those who have completed a post-secondary education in plant science, horticulture, green space management, or a related field with the ability to demonstrate excellent knowledge of plants and garden design.
- A minimum of four (4) summer seasons horticulture experience.
- Must possess a valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License.
- Crew Leadership experience is considered an asset.
- Specialized certification or training in related horticultural practices would be considered an asset.
- Intermediate technology and computer skills. Proficiency with appropriate computer programs for record keeping and administrative tasks.
- A broad-based gardening background with experience in a range of horticultural practices and procedures.
- Excellent communication skills are required to provide clear instructions and training to new Specialized General Labourer Seasonal and volunteers.
- Must have basic mechanical aptitude for the operation of small engine machines, equipment and tools. Confidence and knowledge in use of hand power gardening tools.
- 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, pushing, lifting, kneeling 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.
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.