Outreach And Education Assistant

Outreach And Education Assistant

R – Poughkeepsie, NY

Department:
Environmental Cooperative

Job Family:
Administrator – Temp

Vassar College is deeply committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees by promoting an environment of transparency and respect for differences. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who meet the qualifications of a posting. If you need to request an accommodation to fully participate in the search process, please contact careers.

The Environmental Cooperative brings people to the Preserve at Vassar and other local natural areas to engage in educational activities and experience nature. Exploring Science is our place‑based outdoor education program that allows youth to engage with nature and learn about the ecology of their neighborhoods.

The Outreach and Education Assistant facilitates summer programming through our Exploring Science program. Working closely with Environmental Cooperative staff and Vassar students, the Assistant will develop and implement environmental education field trips with local youth, increase awareness and appreciation of nature in Poughkeepsie, and maintain natural areas on and off campus. Outdoor lessons include age‑appropriate activities that increase comfort outdoors and appreciation of the natural environment, such as nature crafts and games, nature journaling, and science explorations.

The position is essential in supporting the connection between Vassar College and community partners.

The Outreach and Education Assistant is a full‑time (37.5 hrs./wk.) 11‑week position, starting May 26 and ending August 12.

• Teach outdoor education programs to children ages 3–18 years old as part of the Environmental Cooperative's Exploring Science Program.
• Create lesson plans focusing on the natural sciences and nature appreciation; prepare supplies and teaching materials.
• Represent the Environmental Cooperative, the Preserve, and Vassar College at outreach events.
• Assist with land stewardship activities, such as the maintenance of native wildflower gardens, seed collection and propagation, and trail maintenance.
• Work with a team of interns and staff to plan and implement summer activities.
• Maintain a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment for all students and accompanying adults. Work safely in an outdoor environment.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience working with children.
• Able to work outdoors in summer weather (i.e., high humidity and heat).
• Comfortable working outdoors with insects, poison ivy, and wildlife.
• Able to lift 30 lbs of equipment and hike 1–3 miles daily.
• Must have reliable transportation to the Environmental Cooperative daily (located on the Preserve at Vassar, 50 Vassar Farm Lane).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people.
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.
• Must be a Dutchess County resident between the ages of 18–21.

• One year of experience in a leadership role, working with youth.
• Background knowledge of native flora and fauna of the Hudson Valley or willingness to learn.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• College‑level coursework in Environmental Science, Biology, Earth Science or similar areas of study.
• First Aid/CPR training or willingness to obtain.
• Proficiency in Spanish.

The compensation for this position is $18 hourly.