Teen Volunteer Co-Leader

This position will NOT be eligible for benefits, paid leave time (vacation, sick, holiday) nor participation in the retirement system.

About our opportunity:

The City of Asheville is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Teen Volunteer Co-Leader in the WNC Nature Center division. The WNC Nature Center fosters connections between people and the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity.

What you’ll be doing:

• Manage daily operations of the teen program.
• Facilitate and participate in all teen program activities, including orientations, shift days, and workdays.
• Lead activities and meetings for youth ages 13-17 using established lesson plans.
• Mentor teens and assist them with community science, independent projects, and leadership duties.
• Ensure teen safety, provide a fun and nurturing environment, and offer mentorship.
• Supervise teens and address behavior management as needed.
• Create new materials to aid in the growth of the Young Naturalist program.
• Assist with data management, including creating and maintaining Google spreadsheets.
• Communicate with the Teen Program Coordinator about all Young Naturalist activities.
• Interact professionally with participants and their parents/guardians.
• Engage directly with nature center guests to ensure a positive experience.
• Maintain cleanliness of the teen classroom and public facilities.

Benefits:

• Salary: $17.70 hourly.
• This position is temporary/seasonal and does not include benefits, paid leave time, or participation in the retirement system.

About you:

We know your time is valuable. Applicants who meet the following minimum requirements or have comparable experience and/or education will be considered:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with youth.
• Experience with the general public or customer service.
• Experience with Google Suite.
• Experience and/or coursework in environmental or conservation education (preferred).
• Must be willing to take and able to pass City-provided Adult and Child CPR/American Red Cross First Aid certification class (unless currently certified).

Performance aptitudes:

• General knowledge of outdoor recreation, environmental education, group management, and discipline techniques.
• Basic knowledge of Western North Carolina’s natural history.
• Ability to lead indoor and outdoor activities.
• Strong communication skills with diverse audiences.
• Ability to enforce program rules and maintain records.
• Effective relationship-building with participants, families, and associates.

Physical requirements:

• Work in both indoor and outdoor settings in various weather conditions.
• Handle extended periods of standing and physical activity.
• Hike up to 2 miles on uneven terrain.
• Tasks may involve moderate physical effort and lifting (20-50 pounds).

Other things to know:

• Work schedule: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Wednesday–Sunday, May 2025 through August 2025.

About us:

The City of Asheville is dedicated to providing quality service for the residents and visitors of our beautiful city, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Asheville is a thriving mountain city enriched in diversity.

The City of Asheville values and respects a diverse community, workforce, and ideas, and is committed to promoting an equitable, fair, and just employment environment. We seek to create and provide access and opportunities to employees, residents, and visitors through inclusive engagement practices and a strong sense of belonging. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. The City of Asheville is proud to be a second-chance employer.

The City of Asheville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Salary : $18