Summer Green Team Youth Employee

Groundwork Ohio River Valley Background:

Groundwork is where Justice and the Environment meet. We link the environment to quality-of-life initiatives through engagement, education, and employment. As part of the Groundwork USA network and the National Park Service, we create programs and projects that address community needs. Groundwork Ohio River Valley (GWORV) is seeking highly motivated candidates for Green Team Youth Employee positions with the Youth Programs Workforce Development Program. 

Position Summary: 

As a Green Team Youth Employee, you will be an essential part of a team working to improve the local environment and community spaces through various conservation and environmental science projects. These hands-on activities will help you gain experience in green industry jobs while contributing to real-world environmental solutions.

This position is ideal for youth aged 14-18 who are passionate/curious about conservation, interested in working outdoors, and want to build skills in areas like environmental restoration, urban farming, mapping, environmental justice, environmental sciences, and project planning.

Schedule: 

• 25 hours / week.
• Monday – Friday 9a – 2p.
• June 3 – July 25, 2025.

Benefits:

• Gain hands-on experience in environmental conservation.
• Develop skills in teamwork, leadership, and environmental planning.
• Learn to use GIS tools to map and analyze environmental data.
• Contribute to community improvement projects with a lasting impact.
• Fun, engaging, and educational work environment focused on professional development.
• Opportunity to attend paid trips seasonally
   

Job Responsibilities and Duties: 

• Participate in group- based community conservation projects such as litter clean-up, honeysuckle removal, community beautification, urban farm management, and create media about environmental issues.
• Learn and implement sustainable practices.
• Follow instructions from team leaders and work safely and efficiently during outdoor tasks.
• Work closely with a team of peers to accomplish daily project goals.
• Contribute to the setup and cleanup of project sites, including gathering tools, setting up workstations, and cleaning up debris after tasks.
• Communicate effectively with teammates and supervisors to ensure project goals are met.
• Learn to use basic tools and equipment safely for activities such as planting, removing invasive species, and maintaining green spaces.
• Participate in team-building exercises designed to foster collaboration and communication among peers.
• Maintain a positive attitude and enthusiasm for conservation work, even when tasks are physically demanding or repetitive.
• Ensure proper care of equipment and tools, reporting any issues or damages to a supervisor.
• Follow all safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate gear (gloves, safety goggles, etc.), and staying aware of surroundings in outdoor environments.
• Show punctuality and commitment by arriving on time and being ready to work each day.
• Ask questions and seek help when unsure about a task or responsibility.

Qualifications: 

• Physical Stamina: Ability to perform manual labor outdoors, including lifting up to 50 lbs, digging, and standing for extended periods.
• Teamwork: Willingness to collaborate and work as part of a diverse team.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing project priorities and work in various weather conditions.
• Interest in Conservation: Passion/curiosity for protecting and improving the environment, with a desire to learn more about green workforce industries.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to contribute to finding solutions for community and environmental challenges

Preferred Experience:

• Previous outdoor work or volunteer experience, such as park clean-ups, community gardening, or school environmental projects, is a plus but not required.
• Participation in group activities or clubs (e.g., sports teams, youth groups, scouts) that emphasize teamwork, leadership, or community service.
• Experience with hands-on projects like school science fairs, gardening at home, or helping with family or community projects (e.g., home improvement, landscaping).
• Familiarity with basic technology (e.g., using tablets, smartphones, or computers for tasks like data entry, navigating apps, or solving problems).
• Interest in environmental issues or hobbies such as hiking, camping, nature observation, recycling, or learning about sustainability.
• Volunteering or participation in after-school programs that involve physical activity, creative problem-solving, or group collaboration.
• Willingness to learn new skills and take on challenges, even if you have no prior experience in conservation or mapping.

Local residents are strongly encouraged to apply. People of Color and those with other marginalized identities are strongly encouraged to apply. Groundwork is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity. Groundwork does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.