Department: Materials Collection

Rate of Pay: $17.80 per hour

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

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week

Number of Positions Open: 5

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.

Apply Online by May 19, 2026.

Position Purpose: The Materials Collection-Seasonal staff are responsible for the routine day-to-day maintenance of the outdoor site. This entails routine work to keep the Zoo site clean as well as responding to calls for the collection of materials on-site. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:

• Completing site cleanliness tasks before the Zoo opens via garbage picking, power-washing guest paths and leaf-blowing.
• Routine changing of outside garbage bins which reach capacity or near capacity. Surveying outside site areas for these bins, collecting bags, and disposing of them.
• Maintaining the cleanliness of all site areas by picking site clean of loose litter, garbage and unwanted materials.
• Responding to Materials Collection needs from other department via assignment from group leader, Supervisors or requests from other departments directly.
• Responding to work orders assigned by the group leader or supervisors.
• Active maintenance of accumulating garbage during group picnic events.
• Provides excellent customer service.
• Works in tandem with other materials collection staff to ensure duties are divided fairly and evenly with teamwork in mind. Assists in materials collection work which requires multiple staff.
• Actively maintains the cleanliness and integrity of materials collection equipment.
• Follows all policies and branch instructions.
• Attends appropriate training as required.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Must have a minimum of 1- year of proven experience in the same or similar position or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
• Must have some experience with general labour or waste management/custodial work.
• Must possess excellent customer service skills. Toronto Zoo knowledge is an asset.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
• Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid and in good standing. Copies of licenses and certificates to be provided at time of hire and upon renewal.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation an asset.
• An asset to possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario, along with a good driving record.
• Knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems is an asset.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• Flexibility to start shifts as early as 6 am or work late shifts that end as late as 8 pm is required.
• Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position including the ability to lift and carry 23 to 44 lbs.

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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