FMR | Position announcement: Program Assistant

Part time: 20-30 hrs/week, March through mid-November

Friend of the Mississippi River

Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) is a leading citizen organization working to protect and enhance the Mississippi River and its watershed in the Twin Cities Region. We strive to create positive changes that improve water quality, provide habitat for wildlife, create education and recreation opportunities, and inspire widespread commitment to this natural wonder that flows through our community.

Position Description

The Program Assistant position is right for a flexible person who enjoys working with students, community groups and volunteers and is committed to protecting the Mississippi River and its watershed. The ideal candidate will have strong communication and organizational skills and be able to work efficiently and independently. The Program Assistant will be one of seventeen employees in a supportive work environment.

Resposibilities

Recruit, schedule, coordinate and lead volunteer groups and schools to participate in storm drain stenciling outings in St. Paul.
Plan and lead educational programming on urban runoff pollution prevention with classrooms and volunteer groups.
Manage and maintain stenciling equipment and supplies.
Maintain careful records of volunteer participation and project results for the stenciling activity.
Coordinate pre-registration for volunteer stewardship and restoration events, educational programs, tours and workshops.
Assist with volunteer stewardship and educational events.
Coordinate volunteer registration and assist with paddler and event support for the Mississippi River Challenge (July 23-25).
Assist with coordination and support for FMR’s volunteer stream monitoring program.

Qualifications

Communication Skills. Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively juggle multiple phone, email and face-to-face communications with teachers, group leaders, volunteers and staff.
Teaching and Education. Candidates should have teaching experience and be able to present information about water quality and urban runoff pollution to large and small groups in a clear and engaging way.
Interpersonal Ability. The position involves working with a variety of volunteers, students, teachers, community members, vendors and organizational partners. Candidates should have experience leading groups and feel comfortable interacting with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
Organizational Skills. Candidates should have strong organizational ability, be able to manage time and work efficiently. Candidates should possess good recordkeeping skills and will need to be comfortable working with databases and spreadsheets such as FilemakerPro and Excel.
Reliable Transportation. Candidates must have reliable personal transportation and be willing to transport project equipment in their vehicle. Mileage and parking costs for work-related travel will be reimbursed.
Flexibility. Position requires a flexible schedule that can accommodate irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.

Additional Desired Qualifications

High level of motivation and demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision
Experience with event and/or volunteer coordination or support
Proficiency in database, spreadsheet and word processing software
Knowledge or background in natural resources, water quality or environmental education
Familiarity with the City of St. Paul

Hours and Compensation

This is a part-time seasonal position with an average of 20-30 hours per week
The salary range for this position is $11.00-$13.00 per hour
The position begins in early March and ends in mid November
The position requires flexibility and candidates must be available to work during school hours three to four days a week, and several weekends throughout the season.

To Apply

Send a cover letter summarizing your interest in and qualifications for the position, along with a résumé and the names and phone numbers of three references to the contact below.

To apply by email: Send materials as an attachment in Word or PDF format to and put “Program Assistant” in the subject line.

Irene Jones, River Corridor Program Director
Friends of the Mississippi River
360 North Robert Street
Saint Paul, MN 55101
www.fmr.org

Application Deadline

The application deadline is Friday, January 29, 2010 and the desired start date is March 1, 2010. Friends of the Mississippi River is an equal opportunity employer.