Branch: Indigenous Relations

Rate of Pay: $28.37 per hour

Duration: May 16-September 19, 2025 (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, and conservation science 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 14, 2025.

Position Purpose: The IYGCS Project Support Coordinator is responsible for assisting with the planning, development & leading Indigenous Youth Guardians Camp & Summit, which is a yearly cultural & educational overnight camp held in June for 3 days for First Nations youth ages 15-18. The IYGCS Project Support Coordinator will also support youth in post-camp stewardship initiatives in their home Territories. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan and meet objectives for this Species at Risk Stewardship Program project.

This position sleeps overnight at the Zoo during the camp during their scheduled shifts.

Core Role Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of the Supervisor, Indigenous Relations and the Turtle Island Conservation Steward, plan and deliver Indigenous Youth Guardians Camp & Summit programming, based on project objectives and themes while aligning with and upholding respect for Traditional Protocol and objectives within the Strategic Plan.
• Engage with First Nations community partners in-person to spread awareness of the IYGCS program and promote the camp to the youth members of the communities. There is an expectation to travel up to 2 hours from the GTA on occasion.
• Support any youth-led stewardship initiatives and assist youth with inspiring their communities to support their efforts towards the preservation of target Species at Risk.
• Ensure camper safety and wellbeing, adhering to Toronto Zoo policies and procedures.
• Complete reports/ paperwork/ administrative duties, ensuring essential information is communicated with Conservation Steward/Supervisor as required.
• Ensure cleaning of the Bush Camp site to ensure it exceeds guest expectations and to ensure health & safety guidelines are adhered to.
• Follows all policies and branch instructions.
• Attend appropriate training as required.
• Ensure all camp participants have completed a waiver before entering the site.
• Act as a liaison with food services staff & catering for meals/snacks for participants.
• Assist full-time/permanent staff as directed related to program development and delivery and for ensuring a safe and excellent guest experience.
• Follow appropriate health & safety protocols, including recognizing and reporting any hazards/ concerns.
• Follows all branch instructions.
• Attends appropriate training as required.
  
  

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Must be enrolled in, or are a recent graduate of, post-secondary education, preferably in the education and/or biology field, Indigenous Environmental Studies or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
• Experience working with youth/children in a camp atmosphere.
• 2 years of experience developing & leading educational programs.
• Professional knowledge of interpretive teaching methods, having hands-on experience is an asset.
• Experience working with Indigenous youth, Cultural Camps, etc..
• Must be able to work well in a team.
• Demonstrate knowledge of animal, plant, and conservation issues.
• Awareness of Indigenous culture, Traditional Knowledge, and First Nations in Ontario.
• Demonstrate an awareness of and commitment to sustainable practices.
• Familiarity with the Zoo and its exhibits is preferred.
• Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification required.
• 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.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation an asset.
• 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.
• Must be capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• 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. This job posting is for an existing vacancy within our organization. Join our Talent Community

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