AmeriCorps YouthBuild Construction Trainee

Civic Works•Baltimore, MD

9d•Onsite

About The Position

This AmeriCorps position will serve under the National Focus Areas of Affordable Housing and Environmental Stewardship, making energy-efficient homes, rehabbing and performing constructive upgrades and retrofits to existing structures. YouthBuild fulfills the community's need for affordable housing by rehabilitating pre-existing structures (vacant homes) in Baltimore City. YouthBuild also fulfills the area of environmental stewardship by working to incorporate energy-efficient materials and principles during the construction process to reduce the environmental impact of living structures. YouthBuild gives a second chance to Baltimore City youth who have dropped out of high school by providing construction training and certifications, assistance in earning a high school diploma or GED, and job placement services. Construction Trainees will construct and rehabilitate homes in Baltimore City alongside a skilled construction supervisor and staff. Trainees will learn a range of skills from site inspection and controlled demolition to finish carpentry and painting. Trainees will receive industry recognized certifications, job development opportunities, and educational support to obtain their high school diploma or GED. Trainees will have opportunities to give presentations about what they learn to fellow AmeriCorps members, staff, and other Baltimore organizations and community members. Construction Trainees will enroll in a 450 Hour AmeriCorps Service Term and receive a bi-weekly stipend (living allowance). They will also receive an Education Award upon completion of the program, which can be used to pursue additional training, or to further their education.

Requirements

Applicants must be punctual and reliable.
Eagerness to learn is required.
Physical ability to stoop, crawl, stand, bend, climb ladders of varying heights, and lift up to 50 pounds for proper installation of energy-saving equipment.
Ability to serve in varying conditions with exposure to any or all of the following: heat, cold, heights, dust, dirt, indoors, and outdoors and in all weather conditions.
Age 17 or older and either a graduate or NOT currently enrolled in school.
Must have or be willing to work towards a high school diploma or GED.
Ability to commit to the full-service term of 450 hours.
Must submit to a criminal background check and comply with the Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy, the Safety Plan and other Personnel Policies.

Nice To Haves

Previous construction experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Construct and rehabilitate homes in Baltimore City.
Learn a wide range of skills from site inspection and controlled demolition to finish carpentry and painting.
Give presentations to and share what they learn with fellow AmeriCorps members, staff, and Baltimore organizations and community members.
Increase the supply of affordable housing for low-income families.