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The Nourish and Develop Foundation logo

Market & Gardens Assistant

Hybrid
Cannington, ON
CA$20/hour
Mid Level
Contract
Part-Time

About the role

About Us

The Nourish and Develop Foundation (TNDF) is a non-profit located in Cannington, Ontario on a mission to connect people to nourishing food and supportive resources, empowering the community to come together to develop lasting change. Rooted in curiosity, connection, advocacy, responsiveness, and equity, we are a multi-service agency with two pivotal branches—Food Services and Social Services.

If you’re seeking fulfilling employment within a dynamic and supportive team and are passionate about addressing food (in)security, we’re eager to connect with you!

Position Summary

The Market & Gardens Assistant will work closely with the Market & Gardens Coordinator, while also collaborating across our broader programming team. You’ll get to be part of our local food system from start to finish; growing and harvesting food in our community garden, working alongside local farms to source fresh produce, and sharing food with the community through our Mobile Food Market (MFM).

Eligibility

This position is funded through the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of employment
  • Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have refugee protection status in Canada
  • Have a valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada

Position Term

June 29, 2026 – August 28, 2026

Hours and Location

This is a part time, contract position (30 hours per week for 9 weeks).

Standard office hours are Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, however evening and/or weekend shifts may be required for this role, with advance notice given.

This position is based in Cannington, Ontario. There is no remote work or hybrid work option available for this position.

Compensation

$20/hour

Tasks and Duties

Market Duties

  • Support the operation of MFM on-site at TNDF and partner locations North Durham including setup, product display, signage, processing transactions, and teardown.
  • Engage with guests in a warm and respectful way, helping to create a welcoming, community-focused space.
  • Wash, weigh, package, and label produce for sale.
  • Ensure product quality, freshness, and food safety standards are maintained.
  • Assist with produce pickups from local farms and help unload deliveries.

Garden Duties

  • Maple Tree Community Garden (MTCG)
    • Plant, weed, water, and harvest produce from TNDF’s community plot.
  • Keep the garden shed tidy and organized, including managing garden refuse.
  • Monitor irrigation tank water levels and report any issues.
  • Help maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for garden members and visitors.
  • Engage with garden members in a friendly and respectful way, helping to foster a welcoming and inclusive space.
  • On-Site Gardens & Growing Spaces
    • Care for native pollinator and herb gardens at our main office and food bank, as well as our hydroponic tower garden.
  • Support plant health through watering, weeding, pruning, and harvesting.
  • Apply mulch and assist with seasonal and general upkeep to maintain healthy, vibrant spaces.

General Duties

  • Assist with other programming as needed.
  • Actively participate in fostering a positive organizational culture by promoting collaboration, respect, and teamwork. Among colleagues, and demonstrating a commitment to the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
  • Actively participate in staff meetings, team trainings, and TNDF community events (e.g., fundraisers, etc.).
  • Offer support to and communicate often with other staff members.
  • Perform other related errands and duties as required.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Demonstrated ability to work respectfully and inclusively with people of all ages, genders, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
  • Experience working, volunteering, or engaging in community-based settings is an asset, particularly experience with food programs or workshops.
  • Experience with gardening or growing food (e.g., home gardening, community gardens, or farm settings) is required.
  • Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Comfortable using Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Physically able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs) and perform repetitive movements.
  • Familiarity with Brock Township, Durham Region, and/or rural communities is an asset.
  • Valid food handler training and first aid certification is an asset.
  • Valid driver’s license is an asset.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, community-focused environment.
  • Please note that the successful applicant will be required to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Check. TNDF will cover the cost of this.

Equal Opportunity

TNDF is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics as mentioned in the Employment Equity Act.

Applying

Applications are due by May 18, 2026, at midnight.

While all applications are appreciated, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Nourish and Develop Foundation

Non-profit Organizations
11-50

Our MISSION is to enhance local food security and promote self-reliance through collaborative programs and partnerships that deliver lasting solutions and life-long learning.

We have a VISION for building inclusive and collaborative communities together.

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