As a Maintenance Worker in Parks, you play a vital role in keeping Department of National Defence properties safe, accessible, and well-maintained. You work outdoors and in various weather conditions to maintain grounds, landscapes, and outdoor recreational areas on military installations and defence facilities across Canada. Your work directly supports the operational readiness of defence establishments and enhances the quality of life for military personnel and their families.
Your daily responsibilities include landscaping tasks such as mowing, pruning, and planting; maintaining pathways, parking areas, and drainage systems; operating and maintaining grounds care equipment; and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. You may also perform general grounds repairs, seasonal preparations, and coordinate with other maintenance trades. This is hands-on work that requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety.
You typically work as part of a maintenance team on military bases or defence facilities. Your work schedule may vary seasonally, with increased activity during growing seasons and weather-dependent adjustments. You report to a supervisor or maintenance coordinator and work collaboratively with other trades and departments to ensure facilities meet operational and aesthetic standards.
Key Responsibilities
Manage property management activities for government real property, Coordinate maintenance, repairs, and capital projects, Ensure compliance with building codes and accessibility standards, Maintain property records and asset inventories
Required Skills
Property management, Building systems knowledge, Contract administration, Project coordination, Regulatory compliance, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent (secondary school completion). Practical experience in landscaping, grounds maintenance, or general labour is highly valued and often preferred by hiring managers.
Certifications that strengthen your application include: Standard First Aid and CPR, Working at Heights (if required), Safe Handling of Pesticides and Herbicides, Small Engine Repair, and equipment operation certifications (mowers, trimmers, etc.). A valid driver's license is typically required.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training specific to Department of National Defence facilities, equipment, and procedures. The Public Service offers access to professional development through courses in equipment operation, landscape design principles, environmental stewardship, and supervisory skills if you advance your career. Many positions support tuition assistance for relevant certifications through collective agreement provisions.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service:
**Public Service Staffing**: Watch the Government of Canada Job Bank and departmental career pages for advertised competitions. Positions are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with valid work authorization. Selection is based on education, experience, and demonstrated competencies.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the Public Service, you can apply for Maintenance Worker positions through internal competitions, which may have different eligibility criteria than external competitions.
**Student and Youth Programs**: The Public Service offers pathways for recent high school graduates and students through programs like the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP), allowing you to gain experience while pursuing additional training.
**Regional Hiring**: Defence establishments across Canada regularly recruit for maintenance positions. Connect with your nearest DND facility's human resources office to learn about local opportunities and upcoming competitions.
Competition results are typically posted on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Once successful, you complete a security clearance process before starting your role.
Part-Time Options
This position is primarily full-time permanent, though part-time and seasonal opportunities may be available depending on facility needs and budget. Many Defence establishments hire additional maintenance workers on a seasonal basis during spring and summer months when grounds maintenance demands are highest.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as it requires your physical presence to perform grounds maintenance and equipment operation on-site. However, some administrative or planning aspects of the work may be conducted indoors.
Flexible scheduling is sometimes negotiated on a case-by-case basis, particularly for shift work or split schedules during peak seasons. Work hours may include early mornings, weekends, or holiday periods depending on facility operations and seasonal requirements. Discuss flexibility options with your supervisor and refer to your collective agreement for specific provisions regarding work scheduling, overtime compensation, and scheduling accommodations.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
