Field Staff, Restoration & Infrastructure (Tree Planting)

How you will contribute as part of the TRCA team:

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

Major 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:
  • 70 Ball & Burlap trees, or;
  • 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  – 3:30pm or 4:00pm (pending team assignment), 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.

What will you need to succeed:

• 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.
• Knowledge of restoration ecology and terrestrial ecosystems, and common plant identification and ecology
• Ability to read and interpret maps.
• Ability and aptitude to work outdoor in adverse conditions.
• Standard First Aid an asset.
• Valid Ontario G Class driver’s license. 
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member.
• Good physical fitness for carrying out major responsibilities
• Familiar with basic equipment and power tools
• Ability to communicate effectively with tact and courtesy
• Demonstrated ability to proactively identify problems in a timely manner, seeking the appropriate level of support to solve issues 
• Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Act, related Regulations and legislation