JOB DESCRIPTION

The City of Orillia is seeking a Seasonal Community Gardens Coordinator to join our team in the Parks and Recreation Division of the Environment and Infrastructure Services Department. Reporting to the Recreation Program Supervisor, the Community Garden Coordinator oversees plot registrations, supports garden programming, and organizes seasonal garden maintenance. This role also serves as the primary point of contact for gardeners and provides ongoing administrative support to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the Community Garden Program.

 DUTIES

• Manage annual community garden plot registrations, including communication with new and returning gardeners.
• Coordinate and attend garden orientations, educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for gardeners, responding to inquiries, providing guidance, and supporting positive garden experiences.
• Oversee seasonal garden maintenance tasks such as plot cleanouts, compost management, water system setup and shutdown, and general site upkeep.
• Monitor garden sites regularly to ensure compliance with garden guidelines and address maintenance or safety concerns.
• Maintain accurate records of registrations, communications, participant information, and program data in accordance with City policies.
• Support volunteer recruitment, scheduling, and coordination for garden programs and workdays.
• Work collaboratively with City staff, community partners, and volunteers to support local food initiatives and garden-related activities.
• Prepare and distribute program updates, newsletters, and notices to gardeners throughout the season.
• Assist with planning, development, and evaluation of garden programs and long-term garden improvements.
• Participate in meetings, training, and administrative duties as required.
  
  

 QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience or strong interest in gardening, horticulture, urban agriculture, or environmental stewardship.
• Experience working with the public, volunteers, or in community-based programs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work positively with diverse community members.
• Ability to plan, organize, and support programs, workshops, or events.
• Basic knowledge of gardening practices, soil health, composting, and seasonal plant care (or willingness to learn).
• Strong organizational and administrative skills, including comfort using online systems and digital tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid Standard First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Valid “G” Ontario driver’s license with access to a reliable vehicle.
• A current and acceptable Criminal Record Check is required for this position at the incumbent’s expense, prior to the commencement date.
  
  

 Below is the registration link for the available Standard First Aid- CPRC courses:

• Standard First Aid – CPR-C – January 24 – January 25
• Standard First Aid – CPR-C – March 28 – March 29
• Standard First Aid – CPR-C – May 2 – May 3
  
  

This is a seasonal contract position (February 17, 2026 to October 31, 2026) for up to 24 hours per week. The regular weekly schedule is as follows:

• Tuesdays: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (7 hours)
• Wednesdays: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (8 hours)
• Thursdays: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (7 hours)
• Sundays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (2 hours)
  
  

Compensation for this position is $18.40/hour (2025 Rate) ( based on qualifications). Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by January 16, 2026, at Noon.

Applications will only be accepted by applying online. Please click the "Apply Now" button below.

Note: The City of Orillia is committed to an inclusive, barrier-free environment. Accommodation will be provided in all steps of the hiring process. Please advise the City of Orillia Human Resources Department if you require any accommodations to ensure you can participate fully and equally during the recruitment and selection process. We thank all applicants that apply and advise that only those to be interviewed will be contacted. In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act 2001,S.O. 2001, c. 25., and will be used for the purpose of candidate selection. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Freedom of Information Coordinator, City of Orillia, 50 Andrew St. S., Orillia ON L3V 7T5.