Job Overview
We confirm that this role is a current vacancy, and we disclose that AI is not used in any part of the hiring process, including screening, assessing, or selecting applicants.
The Green Spaces Animator at BGCES supports the development and delivery of community gardening and environmental programming that promotes healthy living, food sustainability, and social connection. This role is responsible for maintaining BGCES garden spaces, including flower and vegetable gardens, while creating engaging and educational experiences for youth, older adults, and community members.
The Green Spaces Animator will facilitate hands-on workshops and activities focused on gardening, composting, environmental awareness, and healthy food practices. The successful candidate will foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages learning, creativity, community participation, and environmental stewardship. This role requires an individual who is passionate about gardening, enjoys working with people of all ages, and is committed to supporting community wellness through interactive programming.
Report to: Senior Manager, Children Services & Facilities
Key Duties and Responsibilities of this position include:
· Maintain and care for BGCES flower and vegetable gardens to ensure clean, safe, and thriving garden spaces.
· Coordinate planting, watering, weeding, pruning, harvesting, composting, and seasonal garden maintenance activities.
· Monitor the health and appearance of plants, flowers, vegetables, and garden areas.
· Ensure gardening tools, equipment, and supplies are properly maintained and safely stored.
· Assist in planning seasonal planting schedules and garden layouts.
· Promote environmentally sustainable gardening and composting practices.
· Plan and facilitate interactive gardening and environmental workshops for youth, older adults, and community members.
· Lead hands-on activities related to planting, harvesting, composting, flower care, vegetable gardening, and healthy food practices.
· Create welcoming, inclusive, and engaging programming that encourages participation, creativity, and social interaction.
· Support opportunities for intergenerational learning and community connection through gardening activities.
· Encourage environmental awareness, healthy living, and community involvement through educational programming.
· Adapt activities and workshops to meet the needs and interests of participants of different ages and abilities.
· Maintain accurate records of garden activities, workshop attendance, inventory, and program participation.
· Assist with collecting participant feedback and evaluating program effectiveness.
· Support the preparation of reports, activity summaries, and program documentation as required.
· Assist with promoting gardening and food-related activities through displays, materials, and community events.
· Participate in planning meetings, staff meetings, and agency initiatives as required.
· Educate participants about gardening practices, composting, soil care, food sustainability, and reducing food waste.
· Encourage participants to build practical gardening skills and environmentally responsible habits.
· Support healthy eating initiatives by promoting the benefits of fresh produce and community gardening.
· Foster appreciation for nature, outdoor learning, and environmental stewardship.
· Support the daily operation of gardening and community programs to ensure activities run safely and effectively.
· Assist in supervising program participants, volunteers, and junior leaders during activities and workshops.
· Ensure garden and program spaces are safe, organized, and welcoming for all participants.
· Undertaking other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications:
· 2 years experience in gardening, horticulture, environmental programming, community programming, or related fields.
· Experience facilitating activities or workshops with youth, older adults, or community groups is considered an asset.
· Passion for gardening, food sustainability, environmental education, and community engagement.
· Strong interpersonal, communication, and facilitation skills.
· Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of participants, staff, and volunteers.
· Demonstrated organizational and time management skills.
· Genuine interest in working with people of all ages and backgrounds.
· Ability to provide support, instruction, and encouragement to participants.
· Understanding of equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-bias principles.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Legally eligible to work in Canada.
· Second language is considered an asset.
· Valid First Aid and CPR certification is considered an asset.
· High Five Certification or willingness to obtain.
· Current Vulnerable Sector Police Check.
· Valid Driver’s license and access to a vehicle for travelling.
Assets should include:
· Knowledge of gardening practices, plant care, composting, and environmental sustainability.
· Understanding of healthy living and community wellness initiatives.
· Creative, enthusiastic, and community-focused approach to programming.
· Ability to build positive relationships with participants and community members.
· Demonstrates professionalism, flexibility, and initiative.
· Commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments.
· Effective verbal, presentation and listening communication skills.
· Effective negotiation and mediation skills.
· Time management skills.
Job Code: GSA 2026 Hours of work: 25 hours per week
Please submit resume to: [email protected]
Thank you for your interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. BGC East Scarborough is committed to the principles of employment equity and encourages applicants from all Human Rights protected groups. We strive to meet the accommodation needs of persons with disabilities. Applicants are encouraged to make their needs for accommodation known in advance during the application process.
Candidates who are interviewed will be informed of the result within 45 days. We do not use AI in any part of our hiring process
Pay: $20.00-$25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
