Hydroponic Technician / Farm Operator

At Willow Lake Métis Nation, you have the opportunity to work alongside a passionate and dedicated team in creating a sustainable future for the Nation and its citizens.  

Reporting to the Sustainability manager, the Hydroponic Technician will be responsible for completing regular farming, cleaning and maintenance duties in a new, year-round indoor greenhouse producing fresh, local vegetables for the local community. The Technician will be responsible for following instructions and procedures while ensuring we deliver the highest-quality product to our customers.  

Candidates do not need experience in a hydroponic or commercial farm. This role will offer on-the-job and formal training opportunities to build your skills and learn the ropes of hydroponic food production. We are simply looking for candidates who are driven, hard-working and are willing to learn quickly. Having a green thumb and a passion for food are of course a welcome bonus! 

Core Responsibilities 

• Harvest, clean and package fresh produce. 

• Aid in deliveries and/or sales of produce as needed, including for example, providing samples to our customers. 

• Complete regular operating tasks in the farm, including seeding, transplanting and regular cleaning and maintenance, as instructed. 

• Always follow standard operating procedures and the training you have been provided, including abiding by all safety and good agricultural practices 

• As you become more familiar with the technology, you may be asked to aid in identifying or troubleshooting issues that may arise, including of a mechanical or horticultural nature 

• Promote the food production and good eating habits by setting up booths at different functions 

• Participate in training, including training on the technology, food safety and general worker safety. Implement what you have learned in your training in your daily work.  

• Maintain appropriate records and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, organized and strong problem-solving abilities 

• Demonstrated experience following instructions and procedures 

• Strong customer service skills  

• Proven track record of working effectively in teams 

• Comfortable with technology, such as Google & Microsoft Office suites, and iPads/Windows computers  

• Ability to work independently without direct supervision  

• Good reading and writing skills 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced work environment, showing adaptability and resiliency through unforeseen challenges 

• Self-starter, capable of driving projects with minimal oversight 

• Must be able to lift boxes up to 25 lbs or 50 lbs with assistance, climb small step ladders and work full shifts on your feet 

• Certificate or degree in agriculture, horticulture, or related field (asset) 

• Experience with growing vegetables or other plants (even at home!) (asset) 

A Hands-On Problem Solver: You’re mechanically inclined and enjoy working with tools and technology. Even if you’re new to hydroponics, you love troubleshooting and finding creative solutions to mechanical or technical challenges. (Bonus points if you have hydroponic experience!) 

A Lifelong Learner: You pick up new skills quickly and are eager to expand your knowledge. Learning new technologies and food production systems excites you, and you're always looking for ways to grow. 

Adaptable & Resilient: We’re a fast-moving, small team where responsibilities can shift quickly. You thrive in dynamic environments, embrace challenges, and are comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone. 

Certificate/Training Requirements: Valid Class 5 Driver license, clean driver record, reliable transportation 

Location: Anzac, Alberta 

Hours of Work: 20-30 hours/per week to start

Pay: $20-$25/hour 

Start Date: June 2025

Apply: If you would like to apply, please apply via this posting or submit your resume to m.michetti@wlmn.ca by 4:00 pm (MT) on April 8, 2025  

Willow Lake Metis Association is an equal opportunity employer. We are excited to meet with and hire the top talent out there. We appreciate your interest in working with us; however, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.  

About Willow Lake Métis Nation 

The Willow Lake Métis Nation is elected by its citizens to promote the Nation’s priorities for protecting the environment and strengthening the Indigenous community.  Throughout the Nation’s existence we have been dedicated and committed to working together for the betterment of the Métis community, maintaining our Indigenous culture and identity while also adapting to the inevitable change and impact that has surrounded us. 

Willow Lake Métis people have lived on and derived their livelihood from the lands between Lac La Biche and Fort McMurray since the 1800s.  WLM people continue to use the lands in this area to exercise their Indigenous rights, sustain their culture and identity as Métis people, support their community, and pass their knowledge and way of life on to their descendants.   

Our Core Values 

Community, Integrity, Identity, Culture, Sustainability 

Our Vision 

To effectively represent the rights-bearing community of the Willow Lake Metis; ensuring trust, cultural retention, economic stability, a sustainable environment, and a better life for all  

Our Mission 

By operating through a structured governance of transparency and accountability we aim to improve our community’s way of life and sovereignty through responsible leadership