Field Assistant, Ecosystem Restoration

Field Assistant, Ecosystem Restoration
Contract, 7 months, starting April 2022

Up to 3 positions available

Conservation Halton was established more than 60 years ago to protect our communities from flooding and erosion and manage and restore natural resources of the watershed. We have grown to become so much more. Today, it is our responsibility to prepare our communities for the impacts of climate change, support our partners in creating more sustainable communities, manage our natural areas and resources within the watershed, monitor and enhance the environmental health of our watershed and create opportunities to connect with nature through recreation and education.

We believe that diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives make us stronger. Conservation Halton is committed to be an equal opportunity employer, creating an inclusive work environment and encouraging employees to be their most authentic self, no matter their ethnic background, religious beliefs, age demographic, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical ability, mental health or general appearance.

Our new strategic plan, Momentum, positions us to use the improvements and achievements we have made to carry us into the future for a more green, resilient, connected tomorrow. We are looking to build our team with the kind of inspired, ambitious, and strategic people that are not satisfied with the status quo, are excited by the opportunity in every challenge and are driven by meaningful, measurable results. If you are looking to join an environmentally-focused and socially-conscious community organization, then we are looking for you!

Your Opportunity

Working as part of a multi-disciplinary/matrix team, this role is part of the project management office and will be responsible for assisting with fieldwork for terrestrial restoration through planting trees, shrubs, and wildflowers this field season. With direction from project management staff, this position will play an integral role in on-the-ground implementation of ecological restoration projects.

You will:

• Assist with the implementation of restoration projects focusing on terrestrial, wetland, and riparian ecosystems
• As part of a 2–4-person crew, during planting seasons you can anticipate planting the following typical daily targets dependent on stock type and terrain:
• 500 potted trees and/or shrubs, or
• 500 bareroot sapling trees, or
• 1200 - 1500 bareroot/plug seedling trees and/or shrubs
• Assist with site preparation prior to planting including vegetation cutting and invasive species management as needed
• Assist with operation and maintenance of equipment, including planting implements, augers, vegetation trimmers, and rough-cut mowers
• Follow planting plans and complete daily planter reports
• Perform other duties as assigned

Your Qualifications

• A background and understanding of the principles of ecology and natural resource management in Ontario.
• Have knowledge of vegetation stock handling care and planting techniques
• Minimum six (6) months of experience related to major tasks
• Flexible schedule to accommodate weather conditions (e.g. working some days and not others)
• Ability and aptitude to work outdoors in a variety of conditions (including challenging terrain) and to adapt to the daily challenges associated with fieldwork
• Ability to navigate uneven terrain for distances up to 1 kilometre, sometimes in remote locations and in adverse weather
• Repetitive and strenuous physical activities related to all planting activities including digging, bending, lifting, mulching, rodent guarding, and carrying plant materials and equipment weighing 25-50lbs.
• Demonstrates basic knowledge of native tree and shrub identification skills
• Self-motivated, needing minimal supervision and enjoys working as part of a team and independently
• Valid Ontario G Class driver’s license.
• Willing to apply invasive species treatments with a licensed pesticide applicator
• CPR and first aid certification an asset
• Perform duties in accordance with Conservation Halton’s Safety Policy and Procedures and in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations

Your Reward

• Starting at $19.50 per hour; variable hours each week based on suitable weather conditions to a maximum of 40 hours a week.
• You will work in an inspiring setting with views of the Niagara Escarpment and no traffic lights for several miles
• You will work with a creative, talented and solutions-focused team
• You will work for an organization that provides flexible work arrangements and places tremendous value on professional development and wellness of its employees
• Free access to Conservation Ontario parks
• Discounts on Conservation Halton services, food and merchandise

Our Core Values

Diversity and Inclusion – We endeavor to understand, accept and appreciate the value of our differences and encourage authenticity.
Learning and Innovation – We embrace the need for continuous improvement, the opportunity to learn from
others and the benefits of sharing knowledge.
Person-Centered Service – We make people a priority through customer-centred engagement, predictive problem-solving and high-quality service.
Collaboration – We seek out and trust in the skills, expertise and experience of others in order to achieve our common ambition.
Sustainability – We consider the environmental impact of everything we do and always keep future generations in mind when making decisions.
Integrity – We make decisions with accountability, transparency and a strong sense of personal responsibility for our choices and actions.
Resilience – We are positive and proud of our ability to quickly and effectively respond to change.

To Apply

Please email your application to careers@hrca.on.ca by February 11, 2022.

Your application should include:

• Your resume and cover letter in one pdf document
• Reference your name and the position title in the subject line

We thank all applicants for their interest however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Conservation Halton will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities.

Personal information provided is collected under the authority of The Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.