ABOUT THE WITSET RECOVERY HOUSE
The Witset First Nation Recovery House is a residential recovery program supporting Indigenous community members on their healing journey from substance use disorders. The physical condition of the Recovery House directly reflects the care and respect the Nation has for its residents — a clean, well-maintained space supports residents’ sense of safety, stability, and belonging.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Groundskeeper / Facility Support Worker is responsible for maintaining the Witset Recovery House grounds, buildings, and facilities to a high standard of cleanliness, safety, and care. This is a hands-on role that makes a real difference every day. The Groundskeeper works as a respected member of the Recovery House team and, where appropriate, may engage with residents who participate in outdoor and grounds activities as part of their life skills and routine-building programming.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Grounds & Outdoor Maintenance
- Maintain the full exterior property in a safe, clean, and welcoming condition year-round: lawns, pathways, fencing, parking areas, and outdoor gathering spaces
- Perform all seasonal grounds work including snow removal, mowing, weeding, raking, pruning, and general landscaping
- Carry out fencing maintenance, repairs, and upgrades as required; support pasture development and management
- Ensure garbage, recycling, and composting are handled and disposed of properly and on schedule
- Identify and report any property hazards, damage, or maintenance needs to the Recovery House Manager promptly
Garden & Food Production
- Plant, tend, and harvest the Recovery House garden; manage seasonal planting schedules and soil health
- Support and mentor residents who participate in gardening activities as part of their life skills and daily routine programming
- Help integrate traditional and local food knowledge into the garden program where appropriate, in partnership with cultural staff
Animal Care
- Provide daily care for animals on the Recovery House property including feeding, watering, and basic health monitoring
- Maintain animal enclosures, shelters, and pasture areas in a safe and sanitary condition
- Coordinate with the Recovery House Manager regarding any veterinary or animal health concerns
Property & Facility Support
- Perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance on outdoor structures, fencing, equipment, and vehicles as required
- Ensure fire safety equipment, pathways, and emergency access routes are clear and maintained at all times
- Maintain organized inventory of grounds and maintenance supplies; notify supervisor when replenishment is needed
- Note: Interior cleaning of the lodge is managed by residents as part of the life skills and daily chores programming — this position focuses on outdoor and property responsibilities
Drug & Alcohol Free Worksite: The Witset Recovery House is a drug- and alcohol-free worksite. All employees are required to report to work fit for duty and free from impairment. Possession or use of alcohol, cannabis, or non-prescribed substances on the premises or during work hours is strictly prohibited in accordance with Witset First Nation's Workplace Policy.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ON-SITE ACCOMODATION
This position includes the option to reside in an on-site cabin located on the Witset Recovery House property. On-site residency is strongly preferred and will be reflected in the negotiated hourly rate. Terms of cabin occupancy will be outlined in the employment agreement.
The successful candidate must be comfortable living and working within an active, community-oriented recovery environment. Residents move freely about the property throughout the day and evening as part of their structured programming, daily routines, and healing activities. Privacy is available within the cabin; however, candidates should understand and genuinely embrace the nature of a residential recovery setting. A calm, respectful, and boundaried presence on the property is essential.
The Groundskeeper is not a clinical staff member and is not responsible for supervising or counselling residents. However, regular incidental interaction with residents is part of daily life on the property, and the Groundskeeper is expected to model respectful, culturally safe, and trauma-informed conduct at all times.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Grade 10 diploma minimum; Grade 12 or higher preferred
- Demonstrated experience in grounds maintenance, property care, farming, or a related outdoor trade
- Experience with garden production, animal care, or agricultural work is a strong asset
- Ability to perform basic maintenance, minor repairs, and seasonal grounds work including snow removal and fencing
- Knowledge of WorkSafeBC safety regulations and WHMIS
- Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s Licence; valid First Aid and CPR (or willingness to obtain prior to start)
- Physical fitness and ability to perform demanding outdoor work across all seasons; able to lift up to 50 lbs
- Respectful, boundaried, and culturally safe approach to interactions with residents in recovery
- Genuine respect for Wet’suwet’en culture, values, and community; experience working with Indigenous communities is an asset
- Satisfactory Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector screening
- Comfortable with on-site living in an active residential recovery community (strongly preferred)
BENEFITS
- Comprehensive Extended Health Benefits: medical, dental, vision, prescription, life insurance & long-term disability
- Pension Plan; 40 paid hours Special/Personal/Bereavement Leave; 1.25 paid sick days/month
- Professional development and training opportunities; vibrant community events
Pay: $23.00-$27.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
