Natural Environment Program Assistant 

Position Summary

This position will assist in the development, coordination and implementation of core programs and projects aimed at protecting, enhancing and restoring Richmond Hill’s urban forest and greenway system.  The Assistant will also foster accessibility to local food and increase public awareness about the importance of parks, natural areas and urban wildlife in Richmond Hill.  

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Community Stewardship Program and Healthy Yards Program:

• Represent the City at partner lead community stewardship events, which includes oversight of event logistics, staff/volunteers, orientation and training
• Preparation of restoration planting plans, communications, education and outreach material, event planning, bookings and permit requests
• Program administration, implementation planning and reporting

Urban Forestry Programs and Long-term Woodlot Restoration Program:

• Carry out tree inventories, insect/disease surveys, database management, analysis, research and photo monitoring
• Investigate and assist with enquiries from the public on tree related issues
• General assessments of tree health and structural condition 
• Development and implementation of detailed woodlot restoration plans including site inspections and monitoring

Richmond Hill Blooms and Community Garden Programs:

• Oversee annual registration of program leases, including all registrations communications, waivers and fee payments etc.
• Developing ongoing communications (bi-monthly newsletter), plan and implement events, inspections, surveys and required ongoing maintenance

Duties and Responsibilities Cont'd (if applicable)

• Site assessments and investigations including the review of historical information, constraint mapping and stakeholder consultation

Development of plans, studies, guidelines, and standards for City-lead capital projects:

• Conduct preliminary research, benchmarking, GIS data analysis, mapping and reporting for City-lead studies, plans and capital projects.
• Assist the project manager to review and compile draft comments from multiple stakeholders
• Preparation and/or delivery of meetings, stakeholder consultation, council and ELT presentations etc.

Attend and/or manage public engagement events during and outside of the regular workweek:

• Participate as staff support for public engagement events as required
• Represent the City as a community liaison at agency, partner and community lead environmental events, meetings, workshops, forums etc.
• Prepare educational content and material for City publications, outreach material, social media and community Centre displays.

• Carry out research, monitoring and technical assistance to the Manager and other Park Operational staff

Education and Experience

• University degree in a related field (forestry, biology, environmental studies, environmental science)
• Up to 3 years related experience
• Understanding of environmental policies, federal and provincial legislation and familiarity with environmental education and outreach
• Experience in a municipal environment is considered an asset
• Experience with ArcView/GIS, ArcPad would be considered an asset
• Standard First Aid and CPR certification would be considered an asset

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience in applying, the principles of environmental management, forestry, ecology, environmental education and outreach
• Ability to accurately identify trees, understand their characteristics and environmental needs/ tolerances
• Ability to identify common insect and disease pests of trees, their life cycles, and control measures using IPM
• Project management and problem solving skills
• Good organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Team player with effective interpersonal skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working in diverse stakeholder environments
• Experience coordinating/facilitating community engagement events would be an asset
• Conduct field monitoring activities when required
• Possess a valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s license

Leadership Competencies