Landscapers in the Department of National Defence maintain and develop outdoor spaces on military bases and defence installations across Canada. You'll be responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining landscaping features including trees, shrubs, flowers, lawns, and hardscaping elements. Your work ensures that DND properties are aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sustainable, and support the operational needs of our defence community.
In this role, you'll perform a variety of tasks such as soil preparation, planting, pruning, fertilizing, and pest management. You may also operate landscaping equipment, maintain irrigation systems, and coordinate with other trades and departments. Your work takes place primarily outdoors in all weather conditions and across different seasons, requiring physical fitness and adaptability. You'll work as part of a team on busy military installations, contributing to both the appearance and environmental stewardship of these important facilities.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct horticulture research, monitoring, and analysis, Collect and interpret environmental or scientific data, Prepare technical reports and recommendations, Support regulatory compliance and stewardship programs
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most Landscaper positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many candidates complete formal horticultural training through community colleges or vocational institutions, with programs in landscape technology or general horticulture being common entry points. Relevant certifications that strengthen your application include: landscape technician certification, pesticide applicator's license, and arborist certifications. Within the Department, you'll receive on-the-job training specific to DND operations, base requirements, and equipment use. Professional development opportunities include upgrading to supervisory roles, obtaining additional horticultural certifications, and participating in environmental sustainability training. The Public Service offers tuition support programs to help employees pursue further education and credentials throughout their careers.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through advertised competitions posted on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.canada.ca), where you can apply when Landscaper positions become available. Some positions may be filled through established staffing pools, which allow qualified candidates to be hired more quickly when vacancies occur. The Canadian Armed Forces also runs student employment programs, such as the Student Work Experience Program (SWEP), which provide opportunities to gain experience in landscaping roles during school breaks. You may also enter through lateral moves if you have related horticultural, environmental services, or maintenance experience in other federal departments or the private sector. Temporary or contract positions sometimes lead to permanent opportunities as you demonstrate your skills and reliability.
Part-Time Options
Most Landscaper positions with DND are full-time, permanent roles. However, part-time and seasonal opportunities are sometimes available, particularly during spring and summer months when landscaping work is most intensive. These seasonal positions provide flexible entry points for students or those seeking additional income. Some bases may offer flexible start times to accommodate operational needs, and in rare cases, compressed work weeks are possible depending on the installation's requirements. Remote work is not applicable to this role, as the work is inherently site-based and requires physical presence on Defence installations. If you're seeking work-life balance, discuss scheduling options during the recruitment process, as some flexibility may be negotiated based on operational demands and base-specific needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
