Branches Youth Development & Environment Assistant

Parks & People works to sustain and improve Baltimore’s parks and open spaces through public-private partnerships. Since 1984, P&P has a history of making investments in green park projects to revitalize neighborhoods and is a major provider of programs to allow children, youth and adults to learn, grow, and explore their natural environment. Our vision is to ensure that everyone in Baltimore is connected to nature, their community and each other through vibrant parks and green spaces.

Branches is a summer employment program for youth ages 15 – 19. Branches participants restore & explore community green spaces, practice essential life skills, and gain valuable work experience. Branches is an opportunity to work as part of a team, explore potential career paths, gain leadership skills, and accomplish hands-on conservation work that will have a lasting positive impact on Baltimore’s communities and environment.

REPORTS TO: Environmental Education Manager

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITY: The Branches Youth Development & Environment (BYDE) Assistant is responsible for assisting a BYDE Instructor with supervision of program participants, program logistics, and maintaining a safe work environment for participating youth during summer employment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assist the BYDE Instructor
• Supervises youth ages 15 - 19 in all aspects of behavior management, team dynamics, and project management
• Trains youth in the use of equipment and tools, policies and procedures, proper behavior on the job, and other logistical aspects of the job
• Manages youth behavior and enthusiasm using positive reinforcement and communicating with clear expectations and feedback
• Transports youth and follows all safety procedures as outlined in training and the program handbook
• Conducts follow up work as needed to ensure all projects are completed and maintained as needed
• Prepares, inspects, maintains and stores all equipment and tools
• Engages youth in learning about a variety of environmental education topics
• Project Management and Logistics
• Assists with the maintenance and transport of equipment and vehicles
• Collects and submits paperwork as requested by the supervisor
• Ensures that equipment is properly stored at the end of the day
  
  

QUALIFICATIONS:

Requirements

• Available during the entirety of training and orientation (June 30-July 3, 2025) and the program (Monday through Thursday, July 7–August 8, 2025) between 9am-4pm
• Complete a background investigation (cost incurred by Parks & People)
• Prior work experience with youth
• Be familiar with video conferencing software
• Have the ability to assist with the facilitation of classes with youth ages 15-19
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with OSHA safety regulations
• Ability to assist with leading a team and modeling appropriate behavior among colleagues and in the community
• Positive people skills and ability to assist in leading team using positive behavior management techniques
• Communicates clear expectations and provides regular feedback to program participants
• Ability to diffuse conflict
• Excellent time-management skills and ability to carry out multiple tasks simultaneously
• Works well in challenging conditions and with a diverse population
  
  

Preferences

• A driver's license valid in the State of Maryland, a good driving record
• Knowledge of environmental education and youth development
• Possession of current certification in CPR for adult/child and First Aid
• Education or experience in the field of education, recreation, social sciences, or natural resources