Department: Materials Collection

Duration: Approx. March 8 – September 1, 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 Casual Supervisor, Material Collection, is responsible for monitoring the daily operational requirements for all aspects of grounds maintenance. The position monitors the grounds, equipment, buildings and staffing requirements and identifies resources for Grounds Maintenance needs. The position participates in duties such as collection and disposal of waste, road servicing and ensuring the security of buildings. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:

• Supervise seasonal staff assigned to the team, in coordination with the Materials Collection and Waste Management Supervisor.
• Participate in the full seasonal staffing cycle, including:
• Conducting candidate screening and interviews and participating in hiring decisions, onboarding and training for new staff.
• Completing initial and final seasonal staff performance evaluations and providing corrective feedback, including supporting disciplinary actions in collaboration with the HR Business Partner (HRBP).
• Support all operational duties related to maintaining the cleanliness of Zoo grounds, including:
• Maintain cleanliness of Zoo grounds through litter picking, waste and recycling collection from visitor amenities, pathways, picnic areas, and event sites.
• Manage materials and supplies, including keeping stock, restocking, and ordering as needed.
• Collaborate with the Events Team to ensure events are supported and areas remain clean before, during, and after events.
• Coordinate adequate staffing coverage through effective scheduling of early and late shifts on weekdays and weekends.
• Assist the Director, Manager, and Supervisors by ensuring staff complete assigned tasks efficiently, safely, and on schedule.
• Ensure adherence to scheduled lunches and breaks.
• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and safety readiness of the Horticulture building, sheds, outbuildings, and garage bays to meet Health & Safety standards.
• Monitor equipment condition; report repair or replacement needs and ensure supplies are replenished.
• Initiate and submit work orders as required, ensuring work orders are completed on time and the system is updated accordingly.
• Attend meetings as required. Schedule regular meetings with staff to discuss Zoo policies, safety talk and alignment to Zoo’s Strategic Plan.
• Operate Zoo vehicles to travel to various locations across Zoo grounds and offsite as required.
• Verify vehicle circle-check sheets daily to ensure vehicles are in good working condition.
• Work with the Transit staff to ensure repairs or servicing needs are completed promptly and properly.
• Ensure all vehicles assigned to Materials Collection are kept clean and maintained in a clean, safe condition.
• Monitor attendance and onsite presence of staff; verify final staff counts before the shift concludes.
• Complete and submit written shift reports as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by manager.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Must possess High School education or a Secondary School diploma.
• Must have secondary education in a field that relates to the grounds keeping industry, or have an equivalent amount of experience and related training.
• Must have 2 years related experience, including 1 year demonstrated experience providing leadership.
• Experience in a unionized environment is preferred.
• Candidate must be aware of the importance of customer service at the Toronto Zoo and be able to communicate this to seasonal staff.
• Must have a demonstrated ability to lead and supervise.
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including Microsoft Office 365.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
• Must have a working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays.
• Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Must have basic knowledge of budget preparation and administration.
• Capable of meeting the physical demands of the position which includes, walking, frequent bending, lifting and carrying.

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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