Horticulture Technician

Kwantlen Polytechnic University   KPU offers all learners opportunities to achieve success in a diverse range of programs that blend theory and practice, critical understanding, and social and ethical awareness necessary for good citizenship and rewarding careers.  KPU strives to implement initiatives that will attract, support, engage, and retain KPU’s people and create an environment where all employees see themselves as contributing to student learning.     JOB OVERVIEW:  HORTICULTURE TECHNICIAN   Reporting to Associate Dean, Faculty of Science & Horticulture, this position is responsible for providing support and assistance to the Instructional Associates (Instructional Associate – Production, Instructional Associate – Landscape, and Instructional Associate – Turf Management) with the delivery of the horticulture program at the School of Horticulture Field Lab, including the preparation of materials for lab use and overall operation of the Field Lab (including facility and equipment maintenance, stock inventory, and general upkeep of the grounds and crops).     EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Post-secondary training in production horticulture, two-year diploma minimum.
• Minimum two year’s assistant grower experience in greenhouse production.
• Proficient in either Argus or Priva greenhouse control systems.
• Class 5 driver’s license.
• Knowledge of WHMIS and safe work procedures for horticulture.
• Pesticide Applicators Certificates (Nursery and Greenhouse IPM), or successful procurement of the certificates within 30 days of a job offer.
• Ability to effectively demonstrate proper equipment use to students.
• Working knowledge of the operation and routine maintenance of horticulture equipment and apparatus.
• Ability to communicate effectively with people of varied backgrounds and experience.
• Ability to work in a self-directed environment with minimum supervision.
• Working knowledge of computers and Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Knowledge and experience necessary for success in a combination of the following:

a. Greenhouse production – vegetables crops preferred.
b. Greenhouse production - floriculture crops.
c. Nursery production.

Plus one or more of:

a. Turf grass management
b. Horticulture equipment repair and maintenance
c. Landscape installation and maintenance 

 

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Salary Information

Annual salary increases are based on hours worked and anniversary dates.

Please note:   As per the KPU-BCGEU Collective Agreement, qualified internal applicants within the BCGEU bargaining unit are given first consideration in filling this position. Internal applicants must apply by   11:59pm on the internal closing date in order to be   considered as an internal applicant. Internal applications received after the closing date will be considered as an external applicant.

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