We’re Hiring
June 2026
Location: Nanaimo, BC (Yellow Point)
Job Type: 20–30 hours per week (seasonal, with potential for growth)
Compensation: Based on experience $19.75-$21/hr
Start Date: As soon as possible
Assistant Retail Manager
Do you love plants, people, and creating great customer experiences?
Holden Lake Farm & Garden is seeking an enthusiastic and dependable Assistant Retail Manager to help support our growing Garden Centre operation.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys leadership, problem solving, merchandising, customer service, and working in a fast-paced outdoor retail environment.
About the Role
The Assistant Retail Manager works alongside the Retail Manager and ownership team to ensure the Garden Centre remains organized, customer-ready, and operating efficiently.
This role combines leadership, customer service, merchandising, plant care, and daily operations. The successful candidate will help guide staff, maintain retail standards, and support the overall success of the Garden Centre.
Responsibilities
Staff Leadership & Support
- Assist with daily staff direction and task delegation.
- Support team members with questions and problem solving.
- Help coach staff on customer service and operational procedures.
- Lead by example and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
Customer Service
- Deliver exceptional customer service.
- Assist customers with plant and product inquiries.
- Handle customer concerns professionally.
- Support returns and exchanges within company policies.
Garden Centre Operations
- Conduct daily walkthroughs of retail areas.
- Ensure displays remain organized, stocked, and customer-ready.
- Monitor signage and pricing accuracy.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
Merchandising & Inventory
- Restock merchandise and plant material.
- Assist with receiving and organizing incoming inventory.
- Maintain attractive product displays.
- Identify inventory needs and communicate opportunities for improvement.
Plant Care
- Water, deadhead, and maintain plant displays.
- Remove damaged or unsaleable product from the sales floor.
- Help maintain overall plant health and presentation standards.
Seasonal Support
- Assist with seasonal setup and merchandising.
- Support end-of-season cleanup and organization.
- Help prepare retail spaces for special events and promotions.
- Help in production throughout the growing season.
Qualifications
Preferred
- Previous retail, garden centre, greenhouse, nursery, or customer service experience.
- Leadership or supervisory experience.
- Knowledge of plants, gardening, or horticulture is an asset.
- Experience with POS systems and inventory management is an asset.
You Are:
- Friendly and approachable.
- Organized and detail-oriented.
- Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
- Able to multitask and prioritize effectively.
- Willing to learn and take initiative.
- Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Comfortable working in greenhouse and outdoor environments.
Growth Opportunity
This position offers a pathway toward other opportunities at the farm. Candidates interested in leadership development, staff training, scheduling, and retail operations are encouraged to apply.
As the business grows, additional responsibilities and advancement opportunities may become available.
Why Work With Us?
At Holden Lake Farm & Garden, we’re more than a garden centre. We are a community-focused destination where people come to connect with plants, food, gardening, and the natural world.
We value teamwork, curiosity, customer service, and creating a positive experience for both our customers and staff.
To Apply
Please send your resume and a brief introduction telling us about yourself and why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Email: holdenlakefarm@gmail.com
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.