GROW WITH US

K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre & Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens

Student Native Plant Conservationist

May – August 2026 (16 weeks) $17.5/hour

The K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre is a unique educational centre where learning, research, and community come together to promote and practice conservation of the Wapna’ki (Acadian) Forest Region.

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about plants, people and the environment to work as a team member on our seasonal crew at the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens.

Students will gain hands-on experience maintaining a world-class collection of living plants. In addition to learning about plant preservation, ecological gardening and collection management, students will have the opportunity to improve their presentation and people skills by leading tours and assisting with special events and environmental education programs.

Tasks consist of; native plant gardening, leading public tours, assisting with special events and programs, data recording, seed collection and storage, planting and propagating native species, invasive species removal.

Successful candidates will be required to perform physically demanding tasks including lifting, digging and moving heavy materials. Must be able to work in a greenhouse environment as well as outside in all weather conditions. Must have strong communication and presentation skills and be able to work independently and in a team environment.

• Knowledge of plants and habitats of the Wapna’ki Forest required
• Previous gardening experience required   
• Certification in First Aid and a driver’s license required
• Must love working outdoors and be passionate about conservation

Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident or a person under the Refugee Protection Act between the ages of 15 – 30 and eligible for the Canada Summer Jobs Program.

Acadia University is strongly committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within our community and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Candidates who belong to equity-deserving groups are particularly encouraged to apply, including women, Black, Indigenous and People of Colour, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities and other equity-deserving individuals. Candidates who identify as being from any of these groups are encouraged to voluntarily self-identify in their application materials.

If you love plants, people and the environment please send a cover letter and resume to:

Melanie Priesnitz, Conservation Horticulturist botanicalgardens@acadiau.ca