Maintenance Workers in Parks play a vital role in keeping Canada's military installations and public spaces safe, accessible, and well-maintained. You will perform a variety of grounds maintenance tasks including landscaping, lawn care, tree and shrub maintenance, and seasonal grounds preparation. Your work ensures that outdoor spaces meet safety standards and aesthetic requirements for military personnel, their families, and visitors. This is hands-on work that combines physical labour with technical knowledge of plant care, equipment operation, and environmental stewardship. You will work both independently and as part of a maintenance team, depending on the size and scope of projects at your duty station.
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 positions require a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 or GED). While formal horticultural education is an asset, many Maintenance Workers in Parks enter the role with on-the-job training provided by the Department of National Defence. Once hired, you may pursue certifications in areas such as landscaping techniques, pesticide application, equipment operation, and occupational health and safety. The Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence support continuous professional development, including workshops on invasive species management, sustainable grounds maintenance practices, and advanced equipment use. Some positions may require or lead to certifications in arboriculture, turf management, or small engine repair depending on your specific duties and career goals.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through open competition notices posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the DND Civilian Careers website. These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You may also enter through student employment programs if you are currently studying, which can lead to permanent positions. Lateral moves from related positions in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or environmental services within the public service are another pathway. Some positions may be filled through internal pools or staffing processes within your local DND installation. Check the DND Civilian Careers website regularly for current job postings in your region, or contact your local Human Resources office for information about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and seasonal work opportunities are available for Maintenance Workers in Parks, particularly during spring and summer months when grounds maintenance demands are highest. Many installations offer flexible scheduling to accommodate seasonal variations in workload. Remote work is not typical for this position due to the hands-on nature of grounds maintenance work; however, some administrative or planning components may be completed offsite. Term positions and casual employment are common entry points that may lead to permanent full-time roles. Discuss work arrangement options with your hiring manager or HR contact, as availability depends on the specific needs of your duty station and the nature of the work assigned.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
