Gardener Grade 1

Position: Gardener Grade 1

Location: Toronto Zoo, Toronto, ON

Education: Post-secondary education

Skills: Heavy lifting, Construction, Backhoe operation, Horticulture

Verified Employer: GROW Program

Are you a dedicated individual who is positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, and conservation science to fight extinction? The Toronto Zoo is looking for a Gardener Grade 1 to join our dynamic organization committed to protecting wildlife. At Toronto Zoo, we prioritize animal well-being in all operations and show respect for all wildlife.

Basic Function:

Reporting to the Supervisor Horticulture, this position is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and care of the plant collection, as well as assisting in the removal of snow and ice and litter control on Zoo property. This position also involves assisting and providing support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare ground for planting of areas and specimens under direction
• Plant and care for specimen plants
• Assist in providing guidance to seasonal staff
• Maintain tools and equipment
• Clean plant exhibit areas and observe specimens for signs of disease
• Operate a variety of equipment used in cultivation, propagation, and maintenance of plants and planted areas
• Assist in snow and ice removal
• Maintain turf areas as per instruction
• Work in a safe manner in compliance with safety regulations
• Answer queries from Zoo visitors and make brief public presentations as required
• Assist with behind-the-scenes tours

Qualifications:

Post-secondary degree, diploma, or certificate in horticulture, arboriculture, landscape design or related field, or apprenticed experience or equivalent training and experience. Must have two (2) years previous horticulture experience. Experience operating relevant equipment such as backhoe, front-end loader, skid steer, and tractor is required. A valid class "D" license with "Z" endorsement for air brakes is also needed.

Must be capable of meeting physical demands of the job and have knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Information System (WHMIS) legislation, the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Toronto Zoo Safety Policy.

Please click the link below to apply: Apply Now

Note: Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment. Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.

The Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process.

The Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

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