Habitat Restoration Technician (Tree Planter) (TERM)

The Habitat Restoration Technician (Tree Planter) (TERM) position reports to the Forester and Restoration Biologist and is responsible for unloading tree deliveries, maintaining trees until they are planted, compiling tree orders, hand and machine tree planting, nut and herbaceous seeding and planting and to assist in ERCA’s annual public tree hand out as well as other community planting events.

This position is classified as ‘Term’ as the tasks associated with this position are for a limited term and will not exceed one thousand, two hundred (1,200) hours in any period of twelve (12) consecutive calendar months.

Term of Contract:  Start mid-April to early June 2026 with occasional hours in the fall.

On Demand, typically 35-40 hours per week. *May include weekends, alternate days/times based on weather and/or business needs. This position may require weekend or evening work.

To Apply:

1. Send your resume and cover letter in ONE document (Word or PDF format only) to careers@erca.org by no later than 12:00 pm on Friday, January 30, 2026.

2. Note the title of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.

   
   

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Hand planting and machine planting of native seed mixes, seedling and large stock trees on private, municipal and conservation lands.

• Preparing native seed mixes, hand and machine seeding, hand planting plugs in habitat restoration sites.

• Unloading of tree deliveries, care and maintenance of tree stock until distributed/planted, and compiling tree orders.

• Assist with preparing various sites for tree planting and/or seeding.

• Ensure cold storage (Ruthven) workshop, and work areas are well maintained, organized and equipment is in good working condition.

• Driving a truck and towing a landscaping trailer to transport tree stock and  other necessary equipment to various conservation areas and job sites, in a safe and responsible manner.

• Assist with native seed collection and processing.

• Assist in public tree handouts and other community events.

• Performs other job-related duties and responsibilities consistent with the position as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Have a keen interest in restoring natural habitat throughout the Essex Region.

• Possess a valid Class G Ontario Driver’s License in good standing. Experience safely operating a vehicle and pulling a trailer, preferred.

• Provide own transportation to and from a central work location (Ruthven/Essex).

• Provide own CSA safety boots, rain gear, meals and accommodation.

• Valid First Aid Certificate is an asset.

• Able to work both independently and cooperatively as part of a larger team.

• Previous tree planting experience preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is primarily performed outdoors and undertaken based on weather and project requirements. Typical work week is on demand up to 40 hours per week including weekend work and potential for additional hours in the spring and fall to accommodate tree planting and seed collection. Incumbents must be available to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Occasional schedule changes and overtime on short notice. This position may be subject to temporary layoff due to shortage of work and/or business interruptions.

• Environmental conditions:  Regular outdoor work may require prolonged standing/walking or sitting on tree planting equipment; negotiation of obstacles and bending or stooping; and carrying equipment, with exposure to inclement weather, heat and cold, biting insects and poisonous plants such as poison ivy.

• Hazards and Risks:  Potential biological hazards that may include infections pathogens, bacteria, fungi or mold from insects, birds, plants, animals and humans. Slips, trips and falls on wet ground and uneven surfaces. Ergonomic hazards with bending, lifting, reaching, etc. Moderate to heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds) and ability to perform physically demanding tasks is required.  Hazards related to operation of landscaping equipment and hand tools includes pinch/crush/wrap/pull points, thrown objects, cutting/shearing, hot surfaces, etc.

  
  

Department:                    Conservation Services

Union Affiliation:             None

Job Status:                       TERM position; Vacant

Hours of Work:                On demand, weather dependent.  Typically, 35-40 hours per week. May include weekends and holidays.

Posting Added Date:       January 12, 2026

Posting Closing Date:      January 30, 2026

Posting Closing Time:     12:00 pm

Positions to Fill:               Two (2)

Progress Status:              Receiving Applications

Office Location:               360 Fairview Avenue West, Suite 311, Essex, ON N8M 1Y6

Wage Rate:                      $21.30 per hour

Grade:                              NBU/Intermediate Skills

Contact:                           Nicole Kupnicki, Human Resources Manager

• ERCA is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and promotes an inclusive workplace.

• We thank all applicants in advance, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

• Personal information is collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy Act and will be used for the purpose of this employment opportunity only.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not utilized in the recruitment process to sort, screen or assess potential applicants.

• We are pleased to accommodate any individual needs under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodation throughout the hiring process, please contact HR 519-981-4469 to make your needs known in advance.