Arboretum Landscape/Student Engagement Aide - IE

About the role

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at James Madison University is accepting applications for JMU students for the position of Student Engagement Aide. These positions will be under the supervision of the Student Engagement Lead for up to, but not exceeding, 15 hours per week between 7 am–3 pm, Monday through Friday.

Responsibilities

• Assist with general Arboretum maintenance needs including pruning, weeding, planting, mulching, etc.
• Assist the Student Engagement Lead and team with preparation and debris removal after daily volunteer opportunities.
• Help train and answer questions from volunteers as needed.
• Work with newer volunteer groups to ensure projects are done correctly and completed in a timely manner.
• Help the Student Lead track and maintain volunteer hour records.
• Learn to identify noxious weeds and invasives from planted material.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled at JMU.
• Previous volunteer experience at the EJC Arboretum is preferred but not required.
• A basic working knowledge of landscape practices is preferred but not required.
• Comfortable working within large (up to 20) and small groups of students on volunteer projects.
• Ability to navigate uneven terrain and possibly lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Must be at least 19 years old and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years.
• Possess basic computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willing and able to manage and keep a timely and consistent work week schedule.
• Maintain written and digital materials in an organized manner.

Work-based learning outcomes

• Reflect on personal strengths and areas for growth, setting goals to enhance professional development (Career & Self Development).
• Assist the Lead Student with onboarding and training of new volunteers; train and work with volunteers on projects (Communication).
• Anticipate setup needs during volunteer opportunities and accurately supply worksites; assist in troubleshooting problems both at worksites and with volunteer schedules (Critical Thinking).
• Help train and lead volunteers during projects to ensure timely and accurate completion; take initiative to troubleshoot on worksites to create fulfilling volunteer opportunities (Leadership).
• Display accountability and dependability on projects while taking initiatives to ensure a fulfilling volunteer opportunity; accurately prepare project sites with little or no direction, anticipating project needs (Professionalism).
• Collaborate with the Student Engagement Lead and Student Engagement Student Lead to assist student volunteers (Teamwork).
• Assist with the QR code check-in and check-out process to ensure accurate record keeping (Technology).

Conditions of employment

Students must be degree-seeking students enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).