FOR TC 09R - Nursery and Seed Orchard Worker

The Team
The Kal Genetics team at the Kalamalka Forestry Centre in Vernon is dedicated to managing our forest genetic resources through both new and traditional breeding techniques. Our diverse team includes a mix of early, mid, and late-career employees, including research scientists, technicians, and seasonal auxiliaries, all working together in a collaborative environment. We value equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring everyone feels respected and supported while making a meaningful impact on the landscape and future generations. Join us and bring your unique skills to a team that values hard work, collaboration, and the finer things in life!

The Role
As a Seed Orchard and Nursery Worker, you'll help implement plans for the provincial forest genetics program at the Kalamalka Forestry Centre in Vernon. Your duties will include grafting trees, growing seedlings, planting, breeding select trees, taking measurements, and maintaining the site, including weeding. While most work is on-site, you’ll also have opportunities to visit field sites across the province. We are committed to building an inclusive, diverse, and supportive team where everyone’s contributions are valued-regardless of background or experience. This video captures some of the work we do in Forest Genetics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSfM472PCuI

Qualifications:
Education and Experience Requirements

• Secondary school graduation or equivalent and one (1) year of experience in horticulture, agriculture, or forestry such as tree planting, landscaping, nursery work and/or orchard work-related field.
• Valid BC Class 5, 7N, or equivalent Driver’s Licence (Class 7L is not considered equivalent).

Preference may be given to applicants with the following:

• Diploma or equivalent certification in a related field such as forestry, biology, agriculture or horticulture.
• Enrolment or completion of course work towards a diploma or degree in a field such as forestry, biology, agriculture, or horticulture.
• One (1) year experience or more in grafting and/or raising of conifer seedlings and/or setting of cuttings and/or breeding trees.
• Two (2) years or more of job experience that involved manual labour or outdoor working experience in horticulture, agriculture, or forestry such as tree planting, landscaping and orchard work.
• One (1) season of work in a forestry seed orchard or operational tree breeding program

Provisos /Willingness statement(s)

• Conduct field work (sometimes to remote areas) which may include travel by vehicle, boat, air or foot, overnight or extended stay and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
• Perform the required physically demanding field work which includes carrying heavy equipment and supplies in difficult terrain.
• Be available to work irregular hours and overtime.
• Wear appropriate safety gear as required.
• Be potentially exposed to hazardous materials or compounds such as bleach, fertilizers, pesticides, solvents and fuels.
• Work at heights using lifts and ladders.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Nicholas.Ukrainetz@gov.bc.ca.

About this Position:
Two (2) Positions are available.
This position has full time on-site requirements.
An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies.
Vernon, in the Okanagan Valley, is surrounded by rolling grasslands with rocky outcrops and stands of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, its three lakes and mountain views in every direction command attention. Famous champagne powder at Silver Star Mountain Resort attracts skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and snowmobilers. In summer months, there are hiking and cycling trails to explore every area from the historic Grey Canal within the city to the nearby provincial parks.
A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.
Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.

Working for the BC Public Service:
The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.

The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Canadian Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Métis, or Inuit) applicants. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.

The BC Public Service is an award-winning employer and offers employees competitive benefits, amazing learning opportunities and a chance to engage in rewarding work with exciting career development opportunities. For more information, please see What We Offer.

How to Apply:
Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the job requirements listed above. Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process may be assessed on their knowledge, skills, abilities, competencies and other position related requirements as outlined in the Job Profile at the bottom of the posting.

Cover Letter: NO - Please do not submit a cover letter as it will not be reviewed.

Resume: YES - Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history including start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and any relevant information that relates to the job to which you are applying.

Questionnaire: YES - You will need to complete a basic questionnaire to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.

Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit the Your Job Application page of MyHR. Gain insights into the hiring journey by joining a Career Conversation. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.