About Us

The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 963 is the certified bargaining agent for employees of the Vancouver School Board working as Building Engineers/Assistant Building Engineers, Head Custodians/Assistant Head Custodians, Custodians, Culinary Assistants, Cafeteria Teachers’ Aides, Food Service Workers, Supervision Aides, Hairdressers, Carpet Cleaners, Maintenance Engineers and Ice/Pool Custodians.

The Local was initially chartered in July, 1930. The first known collective agreement with the Vancouver School Board dates back to 1944.

The IUOE Local 963 is a member of the Canadian Labour Congress, British Columbia Federation of Labour and the Vancouver and District Labour Council.

IUOE members work in all Vancouver School Board sites, including the Education Centre, the Maintenance Workshop, the Grounds Nursery and various support locations used under the authority of the Board.

Role of Operating Engineers in the Vancouver Public School system

Operating Engineers (OE’s) provide facilities and student support in many areas including heating, ventilating, air-quality, cleaning and minor maintenance. Operating Engineers are also the first line providers of services in school cafeterias and charged with the responsibility of student supervision.

OE’s working in the Physical Plant or Operations Department of the VSB are responsible for the day-to-day upkeep and environmental comfort in Vancouver Schools.

Our Collective Agreement

Click here to download our Collective Agreement.