Summer jobs, Student jobs

3 Positions:

• Ecological Assistant – Tree Planting & Aftercare – 2 Contract Positions
• Ecological Assistant – Tree Growing & Aftercare – 1 Contract Position

Type: age 30 & under / summer
Organization: ReForest London
Location: London, Ontario

ABOUT REFOREST LONDON

ReForest London (RFL) is a small but mighty non-profit organization with a vision to see our community thrive in a healthy urban forest. We work to enhance environmental and human health in the Forest City by inspiring, educating and empowering Londoners to plant and care for trees and to be part of a sustainability-focused future for our community.

Since our founding in 2005, we have grown to become London’s largest environmental not-for-profit organization. Powered by passionate staff and volunteers, ReForest London plants and cares for thousands of trees each year. RFL is also actively developing the new Westminster Ponds Centre (WPC), London’s first and only environment and sustainability centre. Led by ReForest London, the WPC will inspire and advance environmental change in our community.

POSTION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Ecological Assistant to provide critical staff support for our tree growing, tree planting and aftercare initiatives. As an Ecological Assistant – you will support the care, planting and growth of trees as well as assist with other ecological initiatives aimed at improving local ecosystems, combatting climate change, and enhancing biodiversity. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute your knowledge of arboriculture and play a hands-on role in supporting local biodiversity through tree growing, planting and maintenance efforts, while working collaboratively with a diverse team of experts and volunteers.

The Ecological Assistant will provide critical staff support to our Tree Planting and Growing Programs – the Community Tree Nursery and Aftercare. They will work closely with Coordinator of Growing Programs to facilitate our spring and summer 2025 planting initiatives.

This is a 8 week, full-time position (37.5 hours/week), at $18.20/hr (contingent upon funding)

KEY RESPONSIBILITES

Tree Nursery Operations (35%)

• Support nursery operations: seedling propagation, care, and distribution.
• Coordinate volunteers for planting, potting, and repotting.
• Maintain records of tree growing activities.
• Prepare reports on nursery performance and plant health.
• Manage nursery stock and inventory.

Tree Propagation, Growth Monitoring, & Care (30%)

• Oversee tree propagation through seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
• Monitor the growth and health of seedlings.
• Track seedling progress and report on growth rates.

Aftercare (15%)

• Monitor the health of planted trees and conduct field visits.
• Lead volunteers in aftercare projects.
• Support data collection and create progress reports.

Community Engagement (10%)

• Engage with local communities to promote tree growing and planting.
• Support educational workshops and training sessions.
• Provide logistical support for project launches and events.

Quality Control & Compliance (10%)

• Implement quality control systems for healthy tree production.
• Conduct inspections to ensure nursery safety and compliance.
• Maintain a safe working environment.

QUALIFICATIONS AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Coursework or experience in arboriculture, plant biology, environmental science, forestry, ecology, or a related field (preferred)
• Prior experience in environmental restoration, nurseries, or working with plants/trees is an asset
• Knowledge of native tree species, seed collection, growth habits, and best practices for planting and care is an advantage
• Basic knowledge of ecology principles and environmental stewardship
• Comfortable working with tools and equipment used in tree planting and maintenance (i.e. chainsaw, brush saw, etc.)
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures and safety protocols
• G class drivers' licence with ability to drive a truck and trailer (required)
• Ability to walk, bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods in outdoor settings
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (up to 60lbs)
• Enthusiastic, reliable, and self-motivated
• Team-oriented with strong oral and written communication skills
• Passion for environmental conservation, tree growth, and the mission of ReForest London
• This position involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Physical labor, including standing for long periods of time, bending, lifting (up to 60lbs), digging, and planting, will be required.
• Frequent evening or weekend hours may be necessary depending on nursery operations, the project timelines, or events

Because this position would be funded through a federal employment program, in order to be eligible, candidates must be:

• A Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or have granted refugee status in Canada (no work permits or student visas),
• and:
• Be between 15 to 30 years of age at the start of employment period;

Candidates must also have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

DESIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Experience driving a truck and/or trailer driving is an asset. Training will be provided.
• Experience working with machinery such as chainsaw and brush saw is an asset. Training will be provided.
• Standard First Aid & CPR certification is an asset.

PERKS

• Long-weekends and holidays off
• Working in the middle of a forest: The Westminster Ponds Centre is surrounded by beautiful trees and 200 hectares of nature
• Discount on work wear clothing store and work boot stipend

APPPLICATION PROCESS:

Please submit a cover letter, addressed to the Operations Office, and your resume (in either PDF or WORD format), via Airtable here.

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Applications will be reviewed and interviews held on a rolling basis until positions are filled, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. All applications will be acknowledged as received, but only those called for an interview will be contacted thereafter.

Interviews will be held in-person at our office location at 944 Western Counties Rd, London, ON.

ReForest London is committed to the diversity of its board, staff and volunteers. Like a forest that thrives best when it is comprised of many different species of trees and shrubs, ReForest London thrives and gains strength from the differing perspectives, insights and experiences a diverse group provides. We acknowledge the systemic discrimination experienced by many. We welcome applications from women, members of racialized groups, visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Thanks for your interest in our mission and for making your community a greener and healthier place!