Leadhand - Nursery

The City of Victoria; Victoria; On-site; CAD 63,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Victoria seeks a Leadhand - Nursery to coordinate and participate in the operation of the parks nursery and greenhouses, supervising a small team. This full-time role runs Monday to Friday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with a pay rate of $46.45 per hour, and requires horticulture training, pesticide licenses, and supervisory experience.

You will plan growing and propagation, maintain records, liaise with suppliers, and assist with public inquiries about plant care within a greenhouse

Qualifications

• High school graduation.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and participate in operation of the Parks nursery and greenhouses.
• Supervise up to 10 staff and ensure schedules and safety standards are met.
• Plan growing and propagation of annuals, perennials and nursery stock.
• Maintain production records and inspect plant materials.
• Coordinate hanging baskets and displays at city buildings.
• Coordinate supplier contact for growing equipment and supplies; respond to inquiries.
• Perform related duties where qualified.

Skills

Organize work

Nursery operations

Record keeping

Staff supervision

Equipment operation

Public interaction

Safety compliance

Education

High school diploma

Horticultural Diploma (2 years)

BC Trades Qualification in production horticulture

Pesticide licences

BC Class 5 Driver's Licence

Job description

Job Description

Leadhand - Nursery

Competition Number: 26/172

Posting Scope: Internal / External

Posted Date: September 15, 2026

Closing Date: September 29, 2026, 4:30 PM PST

Department: Parks & Recreation

Work schedule: Monday to Friday from 7:00AM to 3:30 PM (40 hour work week) – Continuous (Full-Time)

Salary: $46.45 per hour, Pay Grade 12

Job Code: 581

Employee Group: This is a CUPE Local 50 position

Number of Vacancies: 1

POSITION FUNCTION

Coordinate and participate in the operation of the Parks nursery and greenhouses.

KEY DUTIES

Coordinate, assign, review and participate in the work of up to10 staff (2 full-time and 2 FTE) staff involved in nursery operations; ensure schedules, procedures and established performance and safety standards are met; provide employee training and input to performance appraisals; complete time sheets.

Plan and coordinate the growing and propagation of various annuals, perennials and specialty plants, nursery stock and trees for use in parks, hanging baskets and horticultural displays; maintain records of production; inspect plant materials purchased for adherence to standards; test and adjust soil and other growing mediums; monitor and adjust moisture levels, heat and ventilation in greenhouses and cold frames. Monitor pest and disease levels using integrated pest management techniques.

Coordinate the construction, placement and maintenance of hanging baskets; select, provide cost estimates, and set up various plant and flower materials for special displays; maintain the cut flower program and container plants at various city buildings.

Contact outside suppliers to order growing equipment and supplies such as pots, flats and fertilizers; requisition and purchase materials; respond to enquiries from the public related to plant care and hanging baskets.

Perform related duties where qualified.

INDEPENDENCE

Work is performed according to seasonal schedules or is assigned and reviewed by supervisor.

Issues such as staff levels or major expenditures are referred to supervisor.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Effort:

Lift and move heavy plant material and equipment. (occasional)

Mental Effort:

Normal.

Visual/Auditory Effort:

Normal.

Work Environment:

Greenhouse.

Work outside in all weather conditions. (occasional)

Work in an environment where protective measures must be taken to avoid exposure to chemicals and fertilizers. (occasional)

KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Organize and prioritize the work of a unit.

Understand and apply techniques of nursery and greenhouse operations.

Basic level operation of a computer.

Maintain accurate records.

Operate hand tools and power equipment.

Supervise a small staff.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Deal effectively with the public and outside agencies.

Work safely on job sites.

QUALIFICATIONS

Formal Education, Training and Occupational Certification:

High school graduation.

Completion of 2 year Horticultural Diploma or completion of 4-year BC Trades Qualification in production horticulture. (4 years)

Pesticide applicator's licences related to nursery and greenhouse operation.

Current and valid Class 5 B.C. Driver's Licence.

Experience:

2 years of horticultural production experience including supervisory experience.

or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

OTHER:

May be requested to substitute in a more senior position.

The City of Victoria is committed to integrating equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility into our programs, policies, spaces, and services. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the community we serve and aim to become. Individuals who are Indigenous, racialized, immigrants, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+, or facing any additional barriers are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be available upon request throughout the application and selection process.

If you require assistance, please email us at [e-mail].