Gardener 2

City of Toronto; Toronto; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal government in Toronto is seeking Full Time, Seasonal gardeners. The position requires preparing and maintaining horticultural displays, inspecting plants for any issues, and performing park maintenance. Applicants should have a diploma in horticulture or equivalent experience and possess a valid Ontario driver's license. This role demands a good understanding of plant care, the ability to handle maintenance equipment, and excellent public interaction skills. Work may include weekends and shifts.

Qualifications

• Considerable experience as a practicing gardener.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Province of Ontario Class 'G' Driver's License.
• Ability to obtain an Ontario Landscape Exterminator's License within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Prepare flower beds for planting and maintain horticultural displays.
• Inspect plants and report issues such as infestation or disease.
• Perform park maintenance tasks including litter control and snow removal.

Skills

Knowledge of plant materials

Ability to propagate and grow plants

Identifying insect pests and diseases

Understanding of fertilizers

Customer service skills

Ability to work in all weather conditions

Education

Diploma or certificate in horticulture

Tools

Motor vehicles

Grounds maintenance equipment

Job description

• Division & Section: Parks, Forestry & Recreation, PFR Parks
• Job Type & Duration: Full Time, Seasonal
• Hourly Rate: $33.07 (2025 rates)
• Hours & Shift Information: 40 hours per week, may include weekend and evening work
• Number of Positions Open: Talent Pool for upcoming vacancies
• Posting Period: 15-December-2025 to 13-Mar-2026

Major Responsibilities

• Prepares flower beds, by hand digging or rototilling and raking, for planting; prepares plants and maintains flower beds, horticultural displays and plants in greenhouses.
• Maintains plant materials in a park area in a neat and orderly manner.
• Participates in the design, preparation, planting and maintenance of horticultural displays, turfgrass areas, indoor and natural area plantings and landscapes including all aspects of PlantHealth Care inclusive of I.P.M. and pesticide use.
• Prepares various growing media prior to planting; gathering, cleaning and storing propagules; planting and transplanting as required and determining and maintaining correct growing environment.
• Inspects plants, flowers, shrubs and trees and reports damage, insect infestation or disease.
• Prepares chemicals for spraying and sprays flowers, shrubs, etc.
• Performs park maintenance such as litter control, winter duties such as snow removal by hand and/or with equipment, ice removal, and washroom cleaning.
• Loads materials, plants, etc. and delivers, as required, to various locations.
• Operates various types of motor vehicles and mechanized grounds, garden and turf maintenance equipment, etc.
• Responds to horticultural questions from public.
• May be required to perform landscaping functions such as sodding and constructing retaining walls etc.
• May be required to direct other staff.
• Keeps equipment and tools clean and in good working order.

Key Qualifications

Your application must describe your qualifications as they relate to:

• Diploma or certificate in horticulture or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Considerable experience as a practicing gardener.
• Must possess and be able to maintain a valid Province of Ontario Class "G" Driver's License Class and must qualify for the City's equipment operating permits and requirements.
• Possession of or the ability to obtain within 6 months an Ontario Landscape Exterminator's License
• May require Structural Greenhouse/interior Plant Exterminator Licence

You must also have:

• A good knowledge of plant materials and the ability to propagate and grow a wide variety of plants for the beautification of park areas.
• Ability to arrange, plant and maintain annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees according to the best horticultural methods and to achieve an attractive appearance.
• Ability to identify insect pests, diseases and weeds and to treat them in the most effective manner.
• Ability to make the most effective use of fertilizers and an understanding of the water requirements of plants.
• Must be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the regulations that apply to this work.
• Must be physically capable of performing required duties.
• Ability to deal courteously with the public.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• May be required to work shifts, weekends, and overtime as required.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The City is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to creating a workplace culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diverse residents that we serve. Learn more about the City’s commitment to employment equity .