Arboretum Landscape​/Student Engagement Aide - IE

Working Title:

Arboretum Landscape/Student Engagement Aide - IE

N/A

Institutional Employment

Part-Time

Non-Exempt:
Eligible for Overtime

Business Services

100258 - Landscape E&G

Hourly

$15.50

N/A

No

No

Situated in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 52,000. Harrisonburg is conveniently located approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA.

JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and supportive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 21,000 undergraduate and 1,800 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.

JMU offers thriving programs in the liberal arts, science and technology, and professional disciplines at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels. JMU has achieved national recognition for the high quality of its academic programs, focus on maintaining strong student/faculty interaction, and innovative faculty research.

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at James Madison University is accepting applications for JMU students for the position of Student Engagement Aide. These positions will be under the supervision of the Student Engagement Lead for up to, but not exceeding, 15 hours per week between 7am-3pm Monday through Friday.

• Assist with general Arboretum maintenance needs including pruning, weeding, planting, mulching, etc.
• Assisting Student Engagement Lead and team with preparation and debris removal after daily volunteer opportunities.
• Helping to train and answer questions from volunteers as needed.
• Working with newer volunteer groups to ensure projects are done correctly and completed in a timely manner.
• Helping Student Lead track and maintain volunteer hour records.
• Learn to identify noxious weeds and invasives from planted material.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Candidates must be enrolled at JMU.
• Previous volunteer experience at the EJC Arboretum is preferred but not required.
• A basic working knowledge of landscape practices is preferred but not required.
• Comfortable working within large (up to 20) and small groups of students on volunteer projects.
• Be able to navigate uneven terrain and possibly lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Be at least 19 years old and have had a driver’s license for at least 2 years.
• Possess basic computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Be willing and able to manage and keep a timely and consistent work week schedule.
• Maintain written and digital materials in an organized manner.

This job is designed as a work-based learning experience, with an opportunity to progress to higher levels of responsibility on the landscape team including leadership opportunities. Developing NACE competencies are part of this role. By the end of this aide role, students will be able to:

• Reflect on personal strengths and areas for growth, setting goals to enhance their professional development. (Career & Self Development)
• Assist Lead Student with onboarding and training of new volunteers. Training and working with volunteers on projects. (Communication)
• Anticipate set up needs during volunteer opportunities and accurately supply worksites. Assist on troubleshooting problems both at worksites and with volunteer schedules. (Critical Thinking)
• Help train and lead volunteers…