MOOS Project Assistant - NE

Kent State • Kent, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The College of Architecture and Environmental Design’s Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative (CUDC) at Kent State University has a short term twelve (12) week position, titled MOOS (Making Our Own Spaces) Program Assistant, available in summer 2026 for a motivated individual interested in youth engagement, design-build, and community-based work. The MOOS Program Assistant will support the CUDC’s signature program, MOOS, led by the MOOS Program Coordinator and supported by other CUDC staff and external program partners. MOOS is an award-winning, decade long youth design-build initiative that engages middle and high school students in transforming underused public spaces across Cleveland neighborhoods. This role includes both youth engagement and physical, hands-on construction work in indoor and outdoor environments in Downtown Cleveland and multiple Cleveland neighborhoods. The position is ideal for individuals interested in architecture, construction, fabrication, and/or community development.

Requirements

• High school diploma minimum
• Daily transportation to various Downtown Cleveland and various session sites in Cleveland neighborhoods.
• Interest in working with youth in a community-based, hands-on setting
• Strong teamwork and verbal and written communication skills
• Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain a consistent schedule
• Willingness to learn and take initiative
• Flexibility, patience, and adaptability
• Ability to communicate with a diverse range of community members
• Experience in basic carpentry and fabrication
• Must pass a security check, including a background check, finger printing and enrollment in Kent State University sponsored training programs specific to youth engagement prior to working directly with youth.

Nice To Haves

• Some college or college degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Supporting the facilitation of the Making Our Own Space (MOOS) design/build initiative for middle- and high-school students, under the direction of the CUDC’s MOOS Program Coordinator.
• Assisting with the planning, organization and logistics of three distinct MOOS sessions over the twelve-week period, including preparation work during the week(s) between sessions.
• Support hands-on design, fabrication, and construction activities, including assisting with basic carpentry, assembly, and installation of outdoor structures.
• Prepare, organize, and maintain MOOS tools, materials, and equipment.
• Support the setup, breakdown, and daily maintenance of session sites.
• Help to maintain a safe, inclusive, and well-managed work environment.
• Assist with transportation and organization of MOOS tools, materials, and equipment between sites and storage locations as needed.
• Document sessions and resulting projects through photos, surveying tools and attendance tracking for participant stipends.
• Provide general program and logistical support to the MOOS Coordinator as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED