Parks & People sparks wonder through play, education, and nature, creating a community of environmental stewards for a healthier Baltimore. Parks & People envisions a Baltimore City where green renewal contributes to economic investment and population growth, where people enjoy green spaces that spark wonder, and where communities build the strength and leadership to steward the environment.
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.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITY: Branches Youth Development & Environment Instructors are responsible for direct supervision of 10-15 program participants, implementation of conservation, education and science projects, and maintaining a safe work environment for participating youth, both online and in-person, during summer employment.
REPORTS TO: Environmental Education Manager
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Instruction
a. Supervises youth of ages 15-19 in all aspects of behavior management, team dynamics, and project management
b. Engages youth in learning about a variety of environmental education topics
c. Trains youth in the use of equipment and tools, policies and procedures, proper behavior on the job, and other logistical aspects of the job
d. Manages youth behavior and enthusiasm using positive reinforcement and communicating with clear expectations and feedback
e. Collects and submits attendance and assessment data regularly
f. Completes and submits incident reports as needed
g. Transports youth and follows all safety procedures as outlined in training and the program handbook
h. Delivers life skills, job skills, and project-based lessons to small and large groups in collaboration with fellow staff
i. Conducts follow up work as needed to ensure all projects are completed and maintained as needed
j. Prepares, inspects, maintains and stores all equipment and tools
k. Oversees activities of the Youth Development & Environment Assistant
l. Able to Lesson plan for activities and create lessons that fill each day of Branches
2. Project Management and Logistics
a. Assists with the maintenance and transport of equipment and vehicles
b. Collects and submits paperwork as requested by program Coordinator
c. Ensures that equipment is properly stored at the end of the day
QUALIFICATIONS:
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
Preferences
•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
