Education and Public Programs Assistant

Job Description

Under the direct supervision of Hershey Garden’s Manager of Education and Public Programs, the Education Assistant will deliver and coordinate educational and public programs to school, youth, family and adult audiences. This position requires flexibility in work schedule including work on weekends and evenings as needed. This position will occasionally serve as manager on duty.

About Us

Hershey Gardens opened in 1937 with Milton Hershey’s request to “create a nice garden of roses.” Through the years, the 3-1/2 acre rose garden has blossomed into 23 acres of botanical beauty providing visitors with unique experiences and enriching opportunities. Guests can enjoy 11 themed gardens, The Children’s Garden, the indoor Butterfly Atrium and so much more! Overlooking the town of Hershey, the Gardens is a very popular attraction for visiting guests and a frequent destination for local residents.
Hershey Gardens is dedicated to horticultural excellence while providing valuable learning opportunities and inspiring memorable experiences.
Hershey Gardens is an operating division of The M.S. Hershey Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

Duties & Responsibilities

40% Support the Education and Public Program team to deliver formal and informal lessons and educational experiences for schools including and not limited to scouts, adults, homeschool families, and general audiences. Assist with conducting public programs such as horticultural exhibitions and other public events.

40% Assist to provide administrative support, conduct research of potential speakers and guest-presenters, organize supplies, prepare materials, and set-up and tear-down programming spaces for education and public programs.

20% Coordinate recruiting and onboarding process for the teen volunteer program. Assist with developing and supervising experiences for teen volunteers.

Education and Experience

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities

· Friendly, helpful, and courteous disposition
· Passion for nature and for sharing nature with others
· Ability to guide student and adult behavior in a positive, proactive manner
· Ability to lift tables and set up/fold chairs
· Committed to customer service and high-quality guest experiences
· Capacity to stand for 2-3 hours at a time
· Willingness to work in all weather conditions
· Knowledge of general gardens history and procedures
· Ability to work weekdays and occasional weekends

Associates degree or higher.
Successful experience in classroom teaching or program delivery.

Demonstrated interest and ability to work with people, including children of all ages.

Additional Information

Clearances: This position requires criminal history background checks in addition to child abuse background checks as a condition of employment.

Status description and working hours:

Permanent full time, non-exempt. Sweet perks include a benefits program to choose among medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, partially funded HSA, and a robust 403(b) savings plan. Admission to Foundation operating divisions with additional community discounts are also included.

$18/hour

Application Instructions

Please apply on our website https://www.hersheygardens.org/employment/