Community Garden Coordinator (Contract)

JOB DESCRIPTION

The City of Orillia is seeking a Community Garden Coordinator (Contract) 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

• Completion of a high school diploma (secondary school).
• 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 Intermediate First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Valid Class G driver’s licence.

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

Intermediate First Aid w/ CPR-C & AED- January 9,10,16 & 17, 2027

This position is a seasonal contract position that includes regular evening and weekend shifts. The successful candidate will be required to obtain an acceptable Criminal Record Check and current Vulnerable Sector Check at their own expense prior to the employment commencement date.

Compensation for this position is $18.14 to $18.69 per hour (2026 rates) based on qualifications. Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by December 4, 2026, at 11:59PM.   

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.