Arboretum Landscape/Student Engagement Aide - IE

James Madison University • Harrisonburg, VA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Edith J. 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 7am-3pm Monday through Friday. This job is designed as a work-based learning experience, with an opportunity to progress to higher levels of responsibility on the landscape team including leadership opportunities. Developing NACE competencies are part of this role. By the end of this aide role, students will be able to: Reflect on personal strengths and areas for growth, setting goals to enhance their professional development. (Career & Self Development) Assist Lead Student with onboarding and training of new volunteers. Training and working with volunteers on projects. (Communication) Anticipate set up needs during volunteer opportunities and accurately supply worksites. Assist on troubleshooting problems both at worksites and with volunteer schedules. (Critical Thinking) Help train and lead volunteers during projects to ensure a 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 prepares project sites with little to no direction, anticipating project needs. (Professionalism) Collaborates with Student Engagement Lead and Student Engagement Student Lead to assist student volunteers. (Teamwork) Assist with QR code check in and out process is followed by volunteers for accurate record keeping. (Technology)

Requirements

• Candidates must be enrolled at JMU.
• Comfortable working within large (up to 20) and small groups of students on volunteer projects.
• Be able to navigate uneven terrain and possibly lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Be at least 19 years old and have had a driver’s license for at least 2 years.
• Possess basic computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Be willing and able to manage and keep a timely and consistent work week schedule.
• Maintain written and digital materials in an organized manner.
• Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).

Nice To Haves

• Previous volunteer experience at the EJC Arboretum is preferred but not required.
• A basic working knowledge of landscape practices is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed