Gardener Grade 1

Branch: Horticulture
Rate of Pay: Starting $24.66, 3-months $26.30, 6-months $27.40
Duration: Full Time (Permanent)
Hours of Work: 40 hours per week
Number of Positions Open: 2

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, and conservation science to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

Apply Online by June 12, 2024.

Basic Function: Reporting to the Supervisor of Horticulture or Supervisor of Horticulture/Materials Collection, this position, under close supervision, is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and care the plant collection, as well as assisting in the removal of snow and ice and litter control on Zoo property. This position is also responsible for assisting and providing support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities:

• Under direction of the Horticulture Supervisor or the guidance of Gardeners Grade 2, 3, and 4, prepares ground for planting of areas and specimens.
• Under direction of the Horticulture Supervisor or the guidance of Gardeners Grades 2, 3, and 4, plants and cares for specimen, in an acceptable manner, on a day-to-day basis.
• Assists in providing guidance to seasonal staff.
• May be required to carry and use a radio.
• Maintains tools and equipment in good repair and order and stores away supplies.
• Cleans plant exhibit areas, studies and observes specimen for signs of disease.
• Notes needed repair and reports same to their Supervisor.
• Works in a safe manner at all times in compliance with the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, WHMIS legislation and Toronto Zoo Safety Policy.
• Answers queries from Zoo visitors.
• May be required to make brief public presentations and assist with behind-the-scenes tours.
• Operates a variety of equipment used in cultivation, propagation and maintenance of plants and planted areas.
• Operates CVOR trucks and assorted motorized vehicles.
• Assists in snow and ice removal.
• Maintains turf areas as per instruction.
• Assists in litter removal from Zoo property.
• May be required to work in any other area of the Zoo.
• Reports to their Supervisor the absence of, or defect in, any equipment or protective device that they are aware of and which may endanger themselves or another worker.
• Reports to the Supervisor any contravention of the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Ensures that all accidents and hazards are reported to the Supervisor immediately.
• Follows all branch instructions.
• Attends appropriate training courses as required.
• Other related duties as requested by the Supervisor.

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.
• Must possess excavating experience with equipment such as backhoe, front-end loader, skid steer and tractor.
• Must have previous landscape construction experience or equivalent experience.
• Must have previous experience operating CVOR trucks and assorted motorized vehicles including tractors, skid steers, and ride on mowers.
• Must have class "D" license valid in the Province of Ontario with "Z" endorsement for air brakes, along with a good driving record.
• Must have the ability to read, write and communicate effectively with Zoo visitors and to produce brief but accurate reports.
• Must be capable of meeting physical demands of the job: ability to lift and carry 23 to 44 lbs. (10.5 to 20 kilo) on a re-occurring basis, lift and carry 60+ lbs. (27+ kilo) with assistance, ability to bend, walk, push, lift, pull, twist, kneel, climb, crouch, stoop, grip and reach.
• Must possess a Land Extermination – Landscape Class and Structural Extermination – Greenhouse / Interior Plant Exterminator’s license and knowledge of pest control and I.P.M. practices.
• Must be able and willing to work shifts, weekends and holidays.
• Previous experience in the attractions and/or tourism sector preferred.
• Must have working knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Information System (WHMIS) legislation, the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Toronto Zoo Safety Policy.

While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, 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 are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.  Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women.

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Job Type: Permanent

Pay: $24.66-$27.40 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person