CUPE LOCAL 1600

We serve as animal care professionals, skilled tradespersons, scientists, field conservationists, horticulturists, educators, guest experience representatives, events and strategic communication coordinators, finance and procurement associates, fundraisers, custodians, waste collectors, and many other key roles. We are the driving force behind the operations of the Toronto Zoo and our members are fully committed to our responsibility to care for the animals, serve the guests and community, and are passionate advocates for wildlife conservation.

CUPE Local 1600 represents 220 permanent and 75 to 330 non-permanent workers depending on the season in over 140 roles at the Toronto Zoo and Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy. CUPE Local 1600 members value the contributions made by all members and understand the importance of everyone’s work in ensuring the safe operations of the Toronto Zoo, delivering animal care that prioritizes their well-being first, and creating memorable experiences for guests. Our workers deliver incredible value to the City of Toronto, the surrounding communities, and to all the guests who visit the Toronto Zoo and we deserve respect, fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions.