Field Staff, Restoration & Infrastructure (Tree Planting)

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) • Vaughan, ON

6d • CA$25 - CA$29 • Onsite

About The Position

The Field Staff working on the Ecosystem Management planting team provides general labour assistance in a dynamic team environment with the implementation of ecological restoration projects with a focus on native tree, shrub, herbaceous and bio-engineering plantings. Staff will contribute to restoring TRCA’s watersheds including planting around wetland, stream, shoreline, and meadow restoration projects. Occupational health and safety is a major responsibility of this position.

Requirements

• Working towards or has completed a post-secondary education in biology, environmental science, resource management or a related field and pursuing a career in environmental or related field.
• Valid Class G2 Driver’s License
• Valid Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C Certification
• Familiar with basic equipment and power tools.
• Knowledge of restoration ecology and terrestrial ecosystems, and common plant identification and ecology.
• Ability to read and interpret maps.
• Ability to communicate effectively with tact and courtesy.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member.
• Good physical fitness for carrying out major responsibilities.
• Ability and aptitude to work outdoor in adverse conditions.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively identify problems in a timely manner, seeking the appropriate level of support to solve issues
• Proficiency in MS Office for general office communications (I.e., mail, spreadsheet and word processing software, including online enablement software such as MS teams and SharePoint)
• Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Act, related Regulations and legislation
• Required to lift or carry objects that could weigh up to 45lbs

Responsibilities

• Assist with the implementation of ecological restoration projects focusing on terrestrial and riparian plantings.
• As part of a 5-6 person crew, teams can anticipate planting the following typical daily targets dependent on stock type: 350 potted trees and/or shrubs, or 400 bareroot trees, or; 750 bareroot shrubs, or; 2000 hand planted tree seedlings;
• Ability to navigate uneven terrain for distances up to 1000m, sometimes in remote locations and in adverse weather.
• Repetitious and strenuous physical activities related to all planting activities including digging, bending, lifting, post-pounding, rodent guarding, mulching, site preparations and the carrying plant materials and equipment weighing 25-50lbs.
• Typical field staff hours range from 7:00am or 7:30am (pending team assignment) – 4:00pm, Monday – Friday. Overtime during regularly scheduled shifts may also be required and occasionally on weekends.
• Ensures that quality control and assurance measures are followed at all steps of the work process.
• Assists with the transportation of materials to and from sites as required.
• Directs the public to project notice signage and possibly providing contact information for additional information and inquiries, referring detailed questions and complaints to supervisor.
• Participates in the daily safety meetings including tailgate meetings, hazard identification and emergency planning.
• Assists with maintenance of equipment and vehicles, performs circle and other health and safety checks. Reports potential maintenance requirements to supervisor.
• Participates in planting events with staff, community groups and the public.
• Performs traffic control duties on project sites.
• Operates machinery and equipment required to execute work duties related to specific project/program area (i.e., line trimmers, RTVs, tractors, and walk behind mowers etc.).
• Participates in other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan – OMERS/OTPP
• Pregnancy & Parental Leave Top-Up Program
• Unique TRCA Perks
• Flexible work arrangements in accordance with organizational policy and operational requirements, with regular office presence required; however, such arrangements are not guaranteed and are subject to approval.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree