Youth Programs Event Assistant

The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is Massachusetts' premier conservation and preservation organization, founded in 1891. We protect properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value for public use and enjoyment, including over 27,000 acres on more than 120 reservations. As a nonprofit, we are supported by visitors, members, volunteers, and donors.

About the role

As a Youth Programs Event Assistant at Powisset Farm, you’ll provide hands-on experiences for children in the farm’s fields, forests, children’s garden, barnyard, and teaching kitchen. Powisset Farm is a 109-acre working CSA vegetable farm with a learning garden, barnyard animals, culinary programs, scenic trails, and education programs. This part-time, year-round role involves working with children ages 2 to 17, often on weekday afternoons, weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Assist with on-site execution of children’s public programs and private events (birthday parties, field trips) in the farm kitchen/classroom or outdoors.
• Lead children through activities, set up events (moving tables/chairs), greet/check-in participants, and assist with youth cooking classes (material setup, dishwashing, cleaning, assisting participants).
• Sell memberships and provide membership information to visitors using Siriusware software.
• Educate visitors about The Trustees’ mission and encourage support through various outlets.
• Assist with event setup, including organizing supplies, decorating, and distributing marketing/educational materials.
• Support chef instructors with cooking classes (setting up stations, assisting participants, food prep, cleaning).
• Assist with adult public programs as needed.
• Liaise with private lessees during events.
• Lead barnyard tours and ensure guest and animal safety (training provided).
• Greet/check-in visitors, provide customer service, and enforce property rules.
• Maintain clean, organized event areas for a positive visitor experience.
• Perform opening/closing procedures, process cash/credit transactions, and log hours.
• Communicate with staff about safety concerns, incidents, maintenance needs, and program feedback.

Requirements

• Outgoing, friendly, and enthusiastic; enjoys working with the public, including children and families.
• Responsible, detail-oriented, and safety-conscious.
• Dependable; available to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings.
• Articulate, confident, and calm in handling uncooperative visitors or emergencies.
• Ability to work independently.
• CPR & First Aid certification (highly desirable).
• Commitment to The Trustees’ mission and delivering a great visitor experience.
• Flexibility to work nights and weekends.
• Ability to lift 40 pounds.
• Current authorization to work in the U.S. and a satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Research shows historically marginalized groups are less likely to apply if they don’t meet every requirement. We encourage you to apply even if you’re missing some skills or experience.

Pay

$16.00 - $18.00 per hour.

Schedule

Variable, up to 20 hours per week (part-time, nonexempt).

Benefits

• Sick time in accordance with Massachusetts law.
• Free and discounted admission/membership to over 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.
• Free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise/stays at Trustees inns.