Department: Nutrition Science

Rate of Pay: $17.60 per hour

Duration: Approx. April-September 2026 (Non-Permanent)

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week

Number of Positions Open: 1

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, conservation science and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

Position Purpose: The Seasonal Browse Program Assistant is responsible for assisting with browse harvesting and animal diet preparation. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:

• Assist with coordination and execution of browse harvesting, weighting, collection, and distribution.

• Assist with coordination of browse silage production.

• Provide basic care of Toronto Zoo Browse Farm plants including watering, weeding, and mulching (as required).

• Complete and maintain records of browse collection and distribution.

• Assist with coordination of browse related volunteer events with community partners.

• Assist with the establishment of gardens dedicated to browse supply or food crops.

• Collect feedback from Wildlife Care staff on browse consumption.

• Assist with conducting tours, virtual programs and outreach activities.

• Assist with preparing diets for a variety of species on a weekly basis.

• Follows all policies and branch instructions.

• Attends appropriate training as required.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Must be enrolled in or completed an Animal/Wildlife Nutrition course (preferably enrolled in/or graduate of a Nutrition or Animal related program of study) or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
• Must have 6 months of proven experience in the same or similar position.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent teamwork skills.
• Experience working in inclement weather conditions.
• Experience with gardening/horticulture equipment (pruning loppers, hand saws, pole saws, etc.).
• Knowledge of Toronto Zoo browse program and familiarity with common browse species.
• Working knowledge of the principles of plant/tree propagation, care and harvesting.
• Exemplary customer service skills.
• Experience towing trailers is considered an asset.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation an asset.
• Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario along with a good driving record.
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.

While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and/or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment. Candidates may be required to take a written and/or practical examination relevant to the position.

The Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process.

The Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women.

Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in everything we do, respecting wildlife, caring for our team, guest and community. We are a welcoming place to visit, volunteer, and work, united by a shared commitment to conservation, connection, and reconciliation. We blend science and traditional knowledge to protect species and their habitats, and we invite others to join us as Guardians of Wild, acting together to ensure wildlife and wild spaces thrive.

This job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization.

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