Student Work Placement Opportunity: Parks & Facilities

POSITION OVERVIEW

The City of Maple Ridge is offering an externship opportunity for students enrolled in the Master of Urban Forestry Leadership (MUFL) program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and participating in the UBC Externship Program.

This unpaid practicum placement is designed to support student learning and professional development while contributing to local and regional urban forestry initiatives. The successful candidate will gain practical experience supporting the City’s work to implement the Urban Forest Management Plan and advance key urban forestry initiatives in Maple Ridge.

The placement will consist of approximately 26 full-day work sessions between September 2026 and April 2027, in accordance with UBC Externship Program requirements.

If you are a student in urban forestry leadership who is curious, collaborative, and eager to apply your learning in a municipal setting, this opportunity offers a chance to contribute to meaningful urban forest management work in Maple Ridge. The ideal candidate will bring initiative, adaptability, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn while supporting projects that connect research, planning, community stewardship, and on-the-ground urban forestry initiatives.

Be part of our story. Come grow with us!

What You’ll Help Us Do

Some potential examples of projects that this position may assist with include:

• Conducting preliminary research to inform the development of a City tree policy.

• Exploring urban forestry grant opportunities and creating a practical directory and calendar to support future funding applications.

• Connecting with local nurseries to research current tree stock trends and develop Maple Ridge-specific species profiles.

• Researching incentives and best practices for encouraging tree planting on private property to help inform the development of a Maple Ridge program.

• Supporting the identification and prioritization of planting locations for a future grant-funded project focused on tree equity and heat mitigation.

• Helping develop a stewardship plan for annual community events and engagement opportunities, such as Earth Day, National Tree Day, Rock the Block, and other local initiatives.
  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Interest in urban forestry, environmental planning, climate adaptation, community greening, or related fields.

• Basic understanding of urban forestry principles and the role of trees in healthy, resilient communities.

• Ability to conduct research, summarize findings, and present information clearly.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage information accurately.

• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with City staff, partners, and community members.

• Initiative, curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to learn in a municipal environment.

• Ability to think critically and contribute ideas to support urban forestry programs and initiatives.

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience with GIS, mapping, data collection, or community engagement is considered an asset.

DESIRABLE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Enrolled in Mater of Urban Forestry Leadership program at UBC.

• Participating in the Externship program as a part of studies.

• Possesses relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined in this posting.

• No prior urban forestry work experience required.
  

HOURS OF WORK

Hours of work and duration of placement may be flexible to accommodate student work program, practicum, or educational institution requirements and shall comply with the applicable employment legislation (ESA), terms and conditions.  Where the placement is working in a position represented by CUPE Local 622, terms and conditions shall be in accordance with the applicable Letter of Understanding.

EQUITY STATEMENT

At the City of Maple Ridge, we are dedicated to cultivating an inclusive culture that actively values and embraces diversity. We strive to attract and retain a talented, diverse workforce that is broadly reflective of the community we proudly serve. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process by contacting recruitment@mapleridge.ca.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU:

The City of Maple Ridge offers a valuable learning environment for students seeking hands-on experience in the public sector. Students will benefit from mentorship, real-world project / operational experience, and insight into a municipality committed to service excellence. If you are eager to contribute to a growing community while advancing your academic and career goals, this placement is an excellent opportunity.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those under consideration will be contacted.