Employment Info
Rock Reforestation Ltd. started out with Rod and Deb Reimer working as a team. As extra workers were needed, Rod and Deb would select a candidate, train them t o plant the same way as they did and to work as a team. Faster planters lead and also help bag out the slower ones. Since planters work on a day rate, individual numbers are not recorded for pay purposes.
The concept for day rate on a sliding pay scale was developed by Rod and Deb after years of working with different pay systems in many different situations. The concept of the whole crew working as a team is only possible with a day rate pay system. Rod first worked with day rate in the old Robson Valley Co-op, but there were inequities between planters' individual numbers, quality and experience. What Rod and Deb have tried to accomplish with their unique pay scale system is to factor in numbers, quality, company seniority, planting experience, and overall team spirit and attitude when calculating an individual's pay rate. Each employee is evaluated on their own merit, level of competency and experience.
The standard pay scale is based on an average planter with an average production of 1,000 trees per day. Of course this average changes with different planting circumstances, but the concept is that an average planter should make $200.00 a day. A trainee is started at a basic training rate for the first few days and once they achieve a minimum daily production level, their rate should be $160.00 a day. This is normally the rate for a trainee's first season. Rock discourages any attempt to speed up production to make more money in the first season as this usually results in common "rookie" mistakes which will compromise the overall team quality and can even jeopardize the satisfactory completion of a contract.
If Rock hires previously experienced planters, they may be allowed to work their own areas, but will still be paid on agreed day rate. Highest quality work as a top priority is always demanded. These planters are still expected to have a "team first" attitude. Couples with children may be hired with day care provided in camp for a minimum cost.
A raise in pay usually occurs in each successive season of employment with Rock. This is used as an incentive to return for Rock the next season.
Rock's season normally ranges from 50-80 working days per season and the day rate is averaged out over the whole season. In some situations, days will be calculated as ½ days or 1½ days for shorter or longer days. Camp costs which can amount to as much as $30.00 per day are normally waived as a form of appreciation bonus for outstanding effort and contribution to the overall team work concept. Individual bonuses such as extra days paid are also given in recognition of extra effort.
As previously mentioned in the Welcome Page, Rock's camp in the Robson Valley is situated on their beautiful acreage. The camp is a family home based setting with meals being provided in the home. The crew is considered an extension of Rod and Deb's family and is expected to act accordingly. Young children and pet dogs are part of this family and crew compatibility is essential. Crew members are expected to pitch in and help with the overall day to day chores involved with the accommodation of many extra adults in the home. Shower and out-house facilities are provided on site and a limited number of camper units are available. Planters are encouraged to come with their own accommodation units (ie vans, tents, etc.) if possible. Planters should also have their own planting equipment (ie bags, shovels, rain gear, boots, etc.) Although a limited number of extra tools may be available from time to time.
Food is provided by the camp. Breakfasts are self-serve, lunch fixings are provided daily and suppers are served every evening after work. Normal menus include spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, backed salmon, turkey, chicken and Rock's famous burger and drumstick barbeques. Rock is also famous for its Thai style stir fries. Optional vegetarian menus may be arranged with the cook. Limited meals are also available on days off.
Rock will consider all applications experienced or inexperienced. Special consideration will be given to those committed to staying with Rock. In the case of trainees, special consideration is given to persons of Metis status as Rock is involved in a Metis training program.
For more information Contact Rod Reimer.
