Education Assistant

Description:
The Trustees is an organization with a fascinating past and an exciting future. Our places are open to all and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in what we do. Founded in 1891, by a group of visionary volunteers, we preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts and work to protect special places across the state. We have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 25,000+ acres on more than 100 reservations that are all open to the public. We are a nonprofit conservation organization funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and more than 40,000 members.

Our seasonal staff plays an integral role in ensuring that our visitors enjoy our extraordinary places. With the change to warmer temperatures, we experience an influx of visitors of all ages and backgrounds who want to explore and be inspired by our properties. Sandy beaches, wooded trails, cultural gardens, historic homes, community supported agriculture—there are many ways for visitors to discover and explore The Trustees, and just as many opportunities for seasonal employees to make each visitor’s experience special.

About Appleton Farms and the Position:

Appleton Farms, a 1,000 acre farm located in Ipswich, MA, is the oldest continuously operating farm in the country. The working dairy, cheese making facility, barnyard animals, beautiful trails, engaging education programs, and deep history make this a special place to visit and work. The Education Assistant helps execute our suite of farm-based education programs and events in spring, summer, and fall. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands on experience in farm-based education, including curriculum development and independent program implementation. Beginning immediately and ending in late October, this position will work alongside our Farm Educator, Events Coordinator, and farm staff to engage hundreds of visitors in our mission and working farm. The position is 20 hours a week, and Sundays are required.

The Education Assistant will play a lead role in developing and delivering educational programming for schools, public tours, and weekend family programs. The Education Assistant will also support the planning and delivery of our larger summer farm to table dinners and our annual Family Farm Day in September. Additional duties will include orienting visitors at our Welcome Center, training volunteers, and selling memberships. This position requires someone who is outgoing, loves the outdoors and enjoys working with children.

Essential Functions:

  • Deliver exceptional farm-based educational programs that highlight the work of Appleton Farms and The Trustees.
  • Work with the Farm Educator to plan activities, program components, and logistics to ensure a high level of program satisfaction.
  • Execute programs both independently and alongside the Farm Educator.
  • Welcome and orient visitors, sell memberships, and work towards a positive experience for everyone vising the farm.
  • Answer phone and email inquiries for programs and send surveys as program follow-up.
  • Manage parking, signage, and other program logistics.
  • Ensure safety and policy compliance at all programs and events.
  • Assist with other Appleton stewardship, farm, and retail operations on an as needed basis including set up and break down at events.
  • Other duties as assigned with or without accommodation

Qualifications:
The ability to translate the importance of local farms, sustainable agriculture, and the agrarian history of Appleton Farms to multiple audiences in an inspiring and age-appropriate manner. A willingness to learn and work with the dairy, cheese making, CSA, and stewardship programs is required. Other qualifications include:

  • Obtained or working towards Bachelor’s Degree within a focus area of Environmental Science, Early Childhood Education, Sustainable Agriculture, or similar
  • Experience working with children in an educational or outdoor setting required
  • Excellent organization and communication skills with the creativity and experience to execute programs at Appleton Farms
  • Knowledge of sustainable agriculture, natural history, or food systems
  • Ability to manage large groups in a positive and efficient manner.

Other Requirements:

  • Weekday, weekend, holiday and evening work required.Sundays are required.
  • Valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as defined in The Trustees driving policy is required.
  • Satisfactory criminal background check (CORI).
  • Must be able to handle the pressure of large events; ability to lift 40lbs, stand for long periods of time, and set up and break down events, is required.
How To Apply:
APPLY NOW – Education Assistant
Click here to see all job opportunities at The Trustees of Reservations
The Trustees offers competitive compensation, as well as the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team across the Commonwealth who love the outdoors and the distinctive charms of New England, and who believe in celebrating and protecting our special places, for everyone, forever.

In addition to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, The Trustees of Reservations aim to create a thriving, inclusive workplace that values each member of our team. We aspire to reflect and effectively serve the residents and communities of Massachusetts who are at the core of our mission.

Apply by:
June 21, 2016