Forklift Operator/Maintenance Assistant

Western Forest Products Inc.; Saanich; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Forklift Operator/Maintenance Assistant at the Saanich Forestry Centre. This role involves operating various motorized equipment and performing essential maintenance tasks to support nursery and seed orchard operations. You will play a vital role in ensuring safety and efficiency while maintaining equipment and facilities. With a commitment to sustainable forestry practices, this innovative firm offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions will directly impact the community and ecosystem. If you have a passion for hands-on work and a strong safety record, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in forklift operation and maintenance.
• Valid forklift operator’s ticket with at least 1 year of experience.
• Strong safety record and commitment to safe practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate motorized equipment to support nursery and seed orchard operations.
• Perform routine building maintenance and minor repairs.
• Conduct minor repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Forklift Operation

Maintenance Skills

Troubleshooting

Interpersonal Skills

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Chainsaws

Backhoes

Pruning Saws

Motorized Equipment

Job description

Job Opening: Forklift Operator/Maintenance Assistant

We are seeking to fill the position of Forklift Operator/Maintenance Assistant at our Saanich Forestry Centre in Saanichton, BC.

Position Details:

• Contract Length: 12 months with potential extension
• Shifts: 7:30am - 4:30pm, Monday to Friday
• Wage Range: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications, with potential performance-based increases

Responsibilities:

• Operate motorized equipment including forklifts, manlifts/girettes, gators, and tractors to support nursery and seed orchard operations
• Perform routine building maintenance and minor repairs (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry)
• Conduct minor repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment and systems
• Maintain irrigation systems for nursery and seed orchard
• Support general site maintenance activities
• Trim, cut, and brush trees using tools like chainsaws, backhoes, and pruning saws
• Troubleshoot electrical, plumbing, and mechanical issues
• Identify safety and productivity improvement opportunities

Qualifications:

• 2-3 years of experience in forklift operation and maintenance
• Valid forklift operator’s ticket with at least 1 year of experience
• Strong safety record and commitment to safe practices
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Mechanically inclined with experience using various tools
• Physically capable of lifting heavy objects and working with tools
• Strong troubleshooting skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and leadership ability for supervising seasonal staff

Preferred Qualifications:

• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience operating mobile equipment such as manlifts
• First Aid and WHMIS certification
• Experience with nursery or farming equipment
• Previous greenhouse/orchard experience

About Saanich Forestry Centre:

Established in 1964, the Saanich Forestry Centre features seed orchards and a nursery producing approximately 15 million seeds and 4 million seedlings annually, supporting Western’s forestry operations across the coast.

About Western Forest Products:

Western Forest Products is a leading manufacturer of high-quality wood products, committed to sustainable forest management. Headquartered in Vancouver, BC, with operations spanning BC and Washington State, we focus on safe, sustainable, and innovative forestry practices to support our communities and ecosystems.