Summer Job Opportunity with Grounded in Haliburton
Be part of the solution to the biodiversity crisis through direct, hands-on action.
About Grounded
Grounded designs and installs natural gardens and shorelines using native plants in Haliburton County, Ontario. We’re transforming traditional landscapes into ecological communities that are as beautiful to nature as they are to people. We’re at the forefront of a fundamental shift in how we think about landscapes and gardening.
Position Overview
Join us for a summer of hands-on learning at the vanguard of ecological gardening. You’ll work with IT and plant databases while getting your hands dirty creating beautiful, sustainable landscapes. This position offers a blend of outdoor and office work, where you’ll gain practical experience in natural garden installation while learning about native plants, ecological design, and sustainable landscaping practices.
What You’ll Do
- Work directly with Simon Payn, Grounded’s owner, as his #2 over the summer period
- Assist with site preparation and native plant installation
- Learn to identify and understand the role of native plant species
- Help with basic design and planning tasks using professional software tools
- Document project progress
- Participate in client education and project documentation
- Assist with plant care and maintenance
- Contribute ideas to improve our processes and projects
Skills You’ll Develop
Technical Skills
- Native plant identification and ecological relationships
- Natural garden design and installation techniques
- Digital design tools and plant databases
- How to use AI to enhance (not replace) our design process
- Project documentation and monitoring methods
- Sustainable landscaping practices
- Ecological design principles
- Local ecosystem knowledge
Transferable Skills
- Problem-solving in real-world situations
- Professional client interaction
- Project planning and execution
- Time management
- Written and verbal communication
- Adaptability and resourcefulness
Requirements
- We are hoping to receive funding for this job under the Canada Summer Jobs Program. However, if we find the right person, we will hire them anyway.
- Potentially enrolled in post-secondary education (environmental science, horticulture, biology, or related fields welcome). This requirement will be waived for the right candidate.
- Enthusiastic about environmental sustainability and gardening
- Ability to do physical work outdoors in various weather conditions
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation within Haliburton County
- Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
- Basic computer skills; willingness to learn new software tools
Physical Requirements
This position requires regular physical work including lifting, bending, and extended periods outdoors. While we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations where possible, candidates must be able to perform essential physical tasks. We will discuss specific requirements and possible accommodations during the interview process.
Location
This position is based in Haliburton County, Ontario. While we may be able to provide some assistance with finding accommodation, local candidates or those with existing connections to the area are encouraged to apply due to the seasonal housing challenges in cottage country.
Opportunities
- Competitive wage
- Hands-on experience in the growing field of ecological landscaping
- One-on-one mentorship
- Opportunity to build a portfolio of projects
- Real-world experience in sustainable landscape practices
- Be part of creating positive environmental change
- Work in the beautiful Haliburton Highlands
Work Environment and Culture
- Collaborative environment that values fresh perspectives and new ideas. If you’re currently enrolled in education in a relevant field, you’ll have a chance to contribute your skills and knowledge to our projects.
- Split between outdoor project sites and office setting
- Supportive environment with ongoing feedback
- Mix of independent and team-based work
- Beautiful Haliburton County location
Duration
April/May to August/September/October 2025 (exact dates flexible)
Full-time position
Potential for long-term work, depending on business conditions.
Hiring Timeline
Initial interviews will begin in February and March 2025. While this position may be partially funded through the Canada Summer Jobs program, we are committed to hiring the right candidate regardless of funding status. Both virtual and in-person interviews will be considered.
To Apply
Send your resume and a brief letter telling us:
- Why you’re interested in natural gardening
- What you hope to learn from this experience
- Your availability for Summer 2025
- Any relevant experience or coursework
- How you envision contributing to our mission of creating landscapes that work for both people and nature
Email applications to: hello@groundedgardens.ca
Application deadline: February 28, 2025.
We welcome applications from students of all backgrounds who share our passion for creating positive environmental change through ecological landscaping.