Custodian Grade 1

Wildlife Conservancy; Toronto; On-site; CAD 33,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The Toronto Zoo is seeking a Custodian Grade 1 to maintain cleanliness, safety and presentation of facilities, washrooms and offices. The role supports guest experience and aligns with the Zoo’s standards of excellence.

Requirements include a high school diploma, at least one year of custodial or maintenance experience, knowledge of cleaning materials, WHMIS, and a valid Ontario G-class driver's license. Weekend and holiday work is expected.

Qualifications

• Must have completed high school, OSSD, or equivalent.
• Must have a minimum of 1-year proven experience in janitorial, custodial, or general maintenance work.
• Knowledge of cleaning materials and equipment, with basic understanding of safe chemical handling and dilution ratios.
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, work independently or as part of a team, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Must ensure all applicable licenses and certificates remain valid.
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must have knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS.
• Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license in Ontario.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays.
• Capable of meeting physical requirements (bending, standing, lifting).

Responsibilities

• Maintains cleanliness and upkeep of washrooms, buildings, and offices.
• Assists in guiding non-permanent staff within the unit.
• Supports sustainability goals through waste reduction and safe disposal practices.
• Cleans glass on animal exhibits.
• Assists in moving furniture and setting up events.
• Cleans upholstery and carpeting as required.
• Disposes of refuse and recyclables per policy.
• Replenishes soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies.
• Maintains and stores custodial equipment properly.
• May perform acting lead hand duties as needed.
• Follows SOPs and safety training; complies with applicable laws.

Skills

Custodial experience

Interpersonal skills

Safety & WHMIS awareness

Driver's license (Ontario)

Computerized systems

Weekend/holiday availability

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Cleaning equipment

Ontario driver’s license

WHMIS knowledge

Job description

Rate of Pay: Starting $24.14, 520 hours $25.75, 1040 hours $26.82

Category: Full time (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, 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.

Position Purpose:

The Custodian Grade 1 is responsible for performing custodial duties as required to maintain the cleanliness, safety and presentation of Zoo facilities, washrooms, and offices. This position supports a positive guest experience and works collaboratively with other divisions to uphold Toronto Zoo’s standards of excellence. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Core Role Responsibilities:

• Under general supervision ensures cleanliness and upkeep of washrooms, buildings, and offices as assigned by the Supervisor.
• Assists in providing guidance to non-permanent staff assigned within the Unit.
• Reviews and looks for process improvements and works with the Supervisor to reduce waste and ensure safe disposal practices, supporting the Zoo’s Net Zero and sustainability goals.
• Cleans public facing glass on animal exhibits.
• Assists in the moving furniture or other items as required.
• Assists in the set up and take down of tables and chairs for meetings, programs or events.
• Cleans furniture upholstery and carpeting as required.
• Collects and disposes of refuse and recyclable materials following Zoo and municipal waste management practices.
• Replenishes supplies such as soap, paper products, and cleaning materials as required.
• Uses large cleaning equipment such as buffing machines.
• Ensures that all Custodial equipment, tools, machinery and supplies are properly maintained cleaned and stored.
• Makes minor repairs to custodial equipment or fixtures.
• May be required to work in any other area of the Zoo as assigned.
• May be required to carry and use a two-way radio.
• May be required to perform acting lead hand duties during the absence of the Custodian Grade 4.
• Perform all duties in compliance with municipal, provincial and federal requirements and by the standards set by the Toronto Zoo.
• Follow all policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Attends appropriate training as required.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Must have completed high school, OSSD, or equivalent.
• Must have a minimum of 1-year proven experience in janitorial, custodial, or general maintenance work, preferably in a public facility or institutional setting.
• Must have knowledge of cleaning materials and equipment, including a basic understanding of safe chemical handling, dilution ratios, and cleaning best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, work independently or as part of a team, and adapt to changing priorities.
• 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
• Must be able to deal with staff and public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation.
• Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario along with a good driving record.
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• Capable of meeting the physical requirements of the position. This includes bending, standing and operating cleaning equipment safely.

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.

Your 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.

Your 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.

Your Toronto Zoo uses artificial intelligence to screen, assess or select applicants.