What are the responsibilities and job description for the Branches Youth Development & Environment Instructor position at Parks & People?
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.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITY: Branches Youth Development & Environment Instructors are responsible for direct supervision of 10-15 program participants, implementation of conservation, education and science projects, and maintaining a safe work environment for participating youth, both online and in-person, during summer employment.
REPORTS TO: Environmental Education Manager
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Instruction
a. Supervises youth of ages 15-19 in all aspects of behavior management, team dynamics, and project management
b. Engages youth in learning about a variety of environmental education topics
c. Trains youth in the use of equipment and tools, policies and procedures, proper behavior on the job, and other logistical aspects of the job
d. Manages youth behavior and enthusiasm using positive reinforcement and communicating with clear expectations and feedback
e. Collects and submits attendance and assessment data regularly
f. Completes and submits incident reports as needed
g. Transports youth and follows all safety procedures as outlined in training and the program handbook
h. Delivers life skills, job skills, and project-based lessons to small and large groups in collaboration with fellow staff
i. Conducts follow up work as needed to ensure all projects are completed and maintained as needed
j. Prepares, inspects, maintains and stores all equipment and tools
k. Oversees activities of the Youth Development & Environment Assistant
2. Project Management and Logistics
a. Assists with the maintenance and transport of equipment and vehicles
b. Collects and submits paperwork as requested by program Coordinator
c. 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
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with OSHA safety regulations
• Ability to lead team and model appropriate behavior among colleagues and in the community
• Positive people skills and ability to lead 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
• Prior work experience with Branches
• A driver's license valid in the State of Maryland, a good driving record
• College degree
• Teaching experience (secondary level)
• 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
Salary : $18
