Arborist- Assistant

As an Arborist Assistant with The Butchart Gardens; you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of assisting the Arborist Crew in performing all tree and shrub care. At various times of the year your daily duties will include working within the Gardening Department helping to maintain the highest horticultural standards while assisting with many aspects of garden maintenance. You will be working throughout The Butchart Gardens taking a hands-on approach to tree and vegetation management. The successful candidates will be involved in (but not limited to) the following duties: • Performing work in the canopy of the trees at various heights, with the ability to perform a rescue from a tree • Assisting Arborist Climbers with their duties both on the ground and aloft • Performing all aspects of tree pruning and removal safely and skillfully • Pruning, thinning, removing deadwood, installing cables, bracing systems • Removing hazardous trees • Properly maintaining, preparing, and operating all tools and equipment including chainsaws, aerial lifts • Assisting in job site setup, debris removal and cleanup • Planting trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals • Pest and disease monitoring including pesticide and or natural predator applications where required • Hedge trimming / shearing, annual Ivy pruning and trimming • Assisting with the installation of our Christmas light displays • Abiding by The Butchart Gardens and industry safety policies and best practice procedures The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications: • Understanding and implementation of the process of safely ascending tree canopies at all heights • Climbing experience and the ability to perform aerial rescues (or be willing to learn) • Tree, knot and shrub identification skills • Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs., and are capable of performing physically demanding and repetitive tasks • Valid provincial Class #5 driver’s license/Airbrake endorsement considered an asset • Ability to work safely as part of a team and possess the willingness to learn and progress • Preferred background in Forestry, Arboriculture or Landscaping • Excellent attitude, positive outlook and a good team player • Basic knowledge and understanding of trees • BC Pesticide Applicators Certificate considered an asset • Proven ability to work and interact effectively with staff, and communicate with visitors • Self-motivated, well organized and efficient • Strong communication skills (both written and oral) • Ability to conduct oneself in a patient, polite and professional manner • Detail orientated, resourceful, with the ability to problem solve and multi-task • Ability to work well under pressure • Able to work from ladders and aerial devices This is a year-round, full-time position commencing in May 2024. Shifts are predominately Monday to Friday, however occasional overtime, evening and weekend work can be expected. We offer competitive wages and a comprehensive benefit package after a 6-month probationary period. Remuneration will commensurate with the level of responsibility and qualifications of the candidate. Starting from $27.34/hour. Please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@butchartgardens.com, or complete our online application form at butchartgardens.com/employment/ . This position is open until filled. We sincerely thank all those who apply, however, only those short-listed will be contacted.