Job Description
Parks and Open Space Summer Student
Job Type: Student – Seasonal
Job Posting #: 2026-04
Closing Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
Group: Non-Union
Department: Community Services
Location: Owen Sound, ON
The City of Owen Sound is seeking motivated and enthusiastic students to join the Parks & Open Space Division as Summer Students for the 2026 season. Reporting to the appropriate Supervisor, this role supports the day-to-day operations and maintenance of City parks, campgrounds, and open spaces, helping to ensure safe, clean, and welcoming public environments for residents and visitors.
This position provides hands-on experience in municipal operations and may support co‑op placement requirements for students enrolled in a related field of study. This posting is for temporary seasonal summer student positions.
What You’ll Do
Parks & Grounds Maintenance
- Assist with the maintenance of parks, gardens, campgrounds, and open spaces, including mowing, trimming, planting, painting, cleaning, and litter removal
- Perform general facility upkeep to ensure public spaces are clean, safe, and well-maintained
- Operate and maintain basic tools and equipment in accordance with safety standards
Campground & Customer Service Support
- Assist with campground operations, including registration booth duties
- Provide courteous, professional service to the public and respond to inquiries
- Handle cash and process transactions where required
Special Events & Operations Support
- Provide setup, takedown, and operational support for City events and programs
- Assist staff with daily operational tasks and special projects as assigned
Health, Safety & Teamwork
- Work in compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act and City policies
- Maintain a safe and respectful work environment
- Work collaboratively with staff and fellow students as part of a team
What We’re Looking For
Education & Experience
- Previous experience in customer service, custodial work, and/or outdoor or grounds maintenance is considered an asset
- Experience handling cash is an asset
Skills & Competencies
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
- Ability to learn and accurately use online application-based systems (e.g., facility booking software)
Other Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods (minimum 8 hours per day) in varying weather conditions
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Availability to work weekdays, evenings, and weekends
- Ability to work 40 hours per week for the full term of the assignment
- Must be available to work from the hire date through September 1, 2026
- Valid G or G2 Driver’s Licence
Compensation & Benefits
- Wage: $17.60 per hour
- Benefits: OMERS defined benefit pension plan.
Why Join Us?
· Gain hands-on experience in municipal parks and recreation operations
· Work outdoors in a dynamic and collaborative team environment
· Build transferable skills in customer service, operations, and public service
· Contribute to the care and enjoyment of Owen Sound’s parks and open spaces
Why Owen Sound?
Owen Sound offers urban amenities alongside outstanding natural beauty, with access to parks, trails, and waterfront areas on the shores of Georgian Bay—making it an ideal place to work, learn, and grow.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their applications via the City’s Careers Page by Friday, February 20, 2026, at 4:30 PM. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
The City of Owen Sound values diversity and is committed to providing an inclusive workplace. We will accommodate the needs of applicants in accordance with the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act throughout the hiring process.
The City of Owen Sound is committed to a fair, transparent, and people-centred recruitment process. While modern tools may assist in administrative tasks, all hiring decisions are made by people, and every application is reviewed by a member of our Human Resources team.
We do not use automated decision-making or artificial intelligence tools to screen out or eliminate applicants. Any technology used in the hiring process is designed solely to support efficiency—not to replace human judgment or evaluate applicant suitability.
Privacy Statement:
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act for the purpose of candidate selection. It will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
