Branches Youth Development & Environment Instructor

About the position Parks & People sparks wonder through play, education, and nature, creating a community of environmental stewards for a healthier Baltimore. Branches is a summer employment program for youth ages 15 – 19. Branches participants restore & explore community green spaces, practice essential life skills, and gain valuable work experience. Branches is an opportunity to work as part of a team, explore potential career paths, gain leadership skills, and accomplish hands-on conservation work that will have a lasting positive impact on Baltimore’s communities and environment.

Responsibilities

• Direct supervision of 10-15 program participants
• Implementation of conservation, education and science projects
• Maintaining a safe work environment for participating youth, both online and in-person, during summer employment
• Supervises youth of ages 15-19 in all aspects of behavior management, team dynamics, and project management
• Engages youth in learning about a variety of environmental education topics
• Trains youth in the use of equipment and tools, policies and procedures, proper behavior on the job, and other logistical aspects of the job
• Manages youth behavior and enthusiasm using positive reinforcement and communicating with clear expectations and feedback
• Collects and submits attendance and assessment data regularly
• Completes and submits incident reports as needed
• Transports youth and follows all safety procedures as outlined in training and the program handbook
• Delivers life skills, job skills, and project-based lessons to small and large groups in collaboration with fellow staff
• Conducts follow up work as needed to ensure all projects are completed and maintained as needed
• Prepares, inspects, maintains and stores all equipment and tools
• Oversees activities of the Youth Development & Environment Assistant
• Lesson plan for activities and create lessons that fill each day of Branches
• Assists with the maintenance and transport of equipment and vehicles
• Collects and submits paperwork as requested by program Coordinator
• Ensures that equipment is properly stored at the end of the day

Requirements

• Prior environmental education or outdoor learning experience
• Available to attend training Monday, July 1 – Wednesday, July 3, 2026, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (training dates are subject to change)
• Available to attend entirety of program Monday through Friday, July 8 – August 9, 2026, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Complete a background investigation (cost incurred by Parks & People)
• Prior work experience with youth
• Familiarity with video conferencing software
• Ability to assist with the facilitation of classes with youth ages 15-19
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with OSHA safety regulations
• Ability to assist with leading a team and modeling appropriate behavior among colleagues and in the community
• Positive people skills and ability to assist in leading team using positive behavior management techniques
• Communicates clear expectations and provides regular feedback to program participants
• Ability to diffuse conflict efficiently
• Excellent time-management skills and ability to carry out multiple tasks simultaneously
• Works well in challenging conditions and with a diverse population
• Punctual and pristine attendance
• Reliable Transportation

Nice-to-haves

• A driver's license valid in the State of Maryland, a good driving record
• Possession of current certification in CPR for adult/child and First Aid

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