Application Deadline: June 10th, 2026
Location: Prince Rupert, BC on Ts’msyen Territory
Contract Term: Full-time, Temporary (9 weeks, 30 hours per week)
Beginning immediately and continuing for nine weeks
Compensation: $23.50/hour
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated and reliable summer student to support the maintenance of school greenhouses and a community garden site in Prince Rupert.
Over this 9-week summer position, the School Greenhouse & Garden Assistant will work closely with and under the supervision of the Greenhouse and Garden Coordinator at multiple school sites and at a community location. As schools are out for the summer, the focus will be on planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and general greenhouse upkeep.
This is a hands-on outdoor role ideal for a youth passionate about sustainability, food systems, and making a tangible difference in their community. You will build employable skills in agriculture, teamwork, communication, and data tracking – ideal for those exploring careers in food systems, climate action, education, or community health. Access to a reliable vehicle is required, as travel between sites is part of the position.
We’re looking for someone who is dependable, eager to learn, and enjoys working in a hands-on setting. No prior greenhouse experience is necessary we’ll provide training!
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the setup and organization of three new school greenhouses
- Support the maintenance of three existing greenhouses
- Water, weed, and care for greenhouse crops
- Plant seeds and transplant seedlings
- Harvest vegetables, herbs, and other crops
- Help with composting and soil preparation
- Monitor plant health and report any issues (e.g., pests, diseases)
- Keep greenhouse spaces clean, organized, and safe
- Record planting, watering, and harvesting data
- Participate in occasional educational or community activities if scheduled
- Follow all safety protocols and procedures
Qualifications
- Must be between 15-30 years of age and legally entitled to work in Canada (as per Canada Summer Jobs program)
- Interest in gardening, food production, sustainability, and/or Indigenous food systems
- Ability to work independently and in all weather conditions
- Dependable, organized, and able to follow instructions
- Able to lift and carry up to 40 lbs
- Reasonable accommodations will be made to support accessibility needs.
- Previous experience with gardening or greenhouse work is an asset but not required
- Enthusiasm for learning and contributing to community-based projects
Additional Information
This position is funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program and was approved under the Canada Summer Jobs title “Greenhouse Labourer.” Ecotrust Canada strongly encourages applications from Indigenous youth, youth from rural or remote communities, and others who reflect the diversity of Prince Rupert and surrounding areas. Training and support will be provided throughout the placement.
About Ecotrust Canada
Ecotrust Canada is an enterprising non-profit that works with rural, remote, and Indigenous communities toward building an economy that provides for a healthy and resilient natural environment; sustainable and abundant energy, food, and housing; prosperous and meaningful livelihoods; and vibrant cultures and inclusive societies. We call this approach building an economy that provides for life. Our on-the-ground work and systems approach is entrepreneurial, partnership-based, and relentlessly practical. To learn more visit ecotrust.ca.
The Greenhouse and Garden Assistant will join Ecotrust Canada’s Food Systems Initiative is based on Coast Ts’msyen territories in Prince Rupert, BC. Our team works towards creating collaborative, vibrant, and innovative local food economies built by and for communities, supported by local and regional food production and marketplaces that are resilient and sustainable.
To Apply
Send a resume, cover letter, and two references in a single PDF to Dianne Villesèche at food@ecotrust.ca. Please include “CSJ – Greenhouse Assistant Job Posting” in the subject line. If you don’t have a formal resume or cover letter, feel free to email us with a short introduction, your interests, and any experience you’d like to share. We’re happy to work with you.