Job Status: Seasonal Contract – early April 2026 for 6-8 weeks (weather dependent)

Compensation: $19.64 (starting) to $24.08 per hour, plus 4% in vacation pay

Number of Positions: multiple existing vacancies

Hours of Work: up to 44 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Location: varies

Application Closing Date: February 16, 2026

Have you always wanted to work with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority? Do you want to work with a dynamic team of experts committed to improving environmental health? We have great news – now is your chance!

The Tree Planter supports the effective delivery of tree planting programs across private, public and Authority-owned lands within the watershed. The role contributes to high-quality tree handling, planting, and distribution while helping ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with unloading nursery stock at Conservation Areas and cold storage facilities.
• Hand-planting seedlings on private and Authority lands throughout the watershed.
• Plant large stock (potted conifers and bare root hardwoods) on private land.
• Assist with distributing nursery stock to private landowners.
• Support planting of memorial trees for municipalities across the watershed.
• Assist with machine planting of seedlings on private and Authority lands.

Qualifications

• Completion of Grade 12 or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience is an asset.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role, including repetitive outdoor tasks.
• Availability to work occasional extended hours or weekends during peak planting periods.
• Comfort working outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Demonstrated collaboration skills, respectful and constructive communication, and openness to learning and contributing to team goals.

Certifications, Memberships, Licenses

• For some positions, a valid Ontario Driver’s License.

Background Check Requirements

• Successful candidates will be required to provide a satisfactory police check prior to commencement of employment.

Training and Benefits

• Paid Health and Safety, as well as position-specific task training. We want you to succeed and work safely!
• Ensure you have what you need to work. This includes providing you with a free uniform.
• Receive free access to UTRCA Conservation Areas.

Apply Now!

To be considered, please submit your cover letter and resume to the UTRCA, in confidence, via:

E-mail:          jobs@thamesriver.ca

Mail:              1424 Clarke Road, London, ON, N5V 5B9

Please indicate the position title “Tree Planter” in the subject line of your email.  While we thank all applications for their interest in the position, only those applications selected for an interview will be contacted.

We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging.  We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and as request by applicants.  Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.

Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities Act R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, s. 18 (1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.