Field Staff, Restoration & Infrastructure (Planting) - Seasonal

Position Details:
Vacancies: 65
Current Rate of Pay: Min = $24.13/hr, Max = $27.97/hr
Employment type: Seasonal
Duration of employment: 11 weeks with possibility of extension(Expected Start date April 6, 2026 - Flexibility on start date)
Hours of work: 40 hrs/week
Work location: Restoration Services Centre
Division: Restoration and Infrastructure
Business unit: Restoration and Resource Management
Travel: 100%
Hybrid Work: None
Existing Vacancy: Yes
Seasonal Hire TRCA – 2026
Seasonal job opportunities are plentiful at TRCA. If you are looking for seasonal job openings, we can provide great opportunities and seasonal perks. To apply to this posting, click on the “Apply” icon.

Please submit your resume and cover letter in one file (PDF or Word) and upload using only the ‘Resume’ feature within the application prior to 11:59 pm on March 9, 2026.
By working at TRCA you will:
• Work outdoors during the spring in beautiful natural areas.
• Gain valuable experience working at a conservation authority.
• Get a free Conservation Ontario annual pass.
• Get access to TRCA’s Reciprocal Program (discounts across various Ontario attractions).
How you will contribute as part of the TRCA team:
The Field Staff, Restoration & Infrastructure performs a variety of field work activities which support environmental projects and programs delivered by the Erosion Risk Management, Restoration and Resource Management, Construction Services or Professional Services teams.
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.
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.
Typical hours range from 7:00am/7:30am (pending team assignment) to 4:00pm (Monday to Friday). Overtime during regularly scheduled shifts may be required and occasionally on weekends.


Major Responsibilities:
• Assist with the implementation of ecological restoration projects focusing on terrestrial and riparian plantings.
• The location of the work site(s) is outdoors and subject to uneven terrain and changing weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, precipitation and UV exposure
• 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.
• 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:
Minimum pursuing a post-secondary diploma or degree in a related field (Biology, Environmental Science or Resource management
• Knowledge of restoration ecology and terrestrial ecosystems, and common plant identification and ecology
• Requirements of the role require consistent movement and physicality, such as walking, stretching, jumping, swimming, digging, lifting (up to 45lbs) /pushing/pulling items, cleaning, working on vegetation or other general strain.
• Valid Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C Certification Valid Ontario G2 Class driver’s license.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member.
• Familiar with basic equipment and power tools
• Incumbents should be comfortable p