(13-week position available beginning May 15, 2023)
Since 1993, the Harvard Forest Summer Research Program in Ecology has been an integral part of Harvard Forest’s research and education mission. In 2023, 21 undergraduate students will join the Harvard Forest community in researching the effects of natural and human disturbances on forest ecosystems. The Program Assistant works closely with the Summer Program Coordinator to organize the educational components of the program, and to provide the information, advising, support, and management required to create a hospitable academic work environment.
Duties and Responsibilities
Working under the supervision of the Summer Program Coordinator, the Assistant Program Coordinator/Resident Advisor will be responsible for the following duties corresponding to both aspects of the role.
Assistant Program Coordinator
Assist with student arrival and orientation (May 21st – 23rd)
Inform students of Harvard Forest activities, policies, and expectations
Coordinate weekly evening workshops and seminars
Work with Summer Program Coordinator to resolve student issues
Organize Summer Student Symposium in early August
Work on various tasks as needed to facilitate summer research program
Resident Advisor
Responsible for day-to-day activities related to the successful operation of a student residence
Hold weekly house meetings
Plan, organize, and direct student committees (recycling, social activities, etc.)
Advise students on matters concerning community development, conflict resolution and counseling
Required Skills, Training and Experience
-Excellent listening, negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills
-Strong communication (verbal and written) and computer skills, comfortable using email and list-serves
-Capable of performing a variety of tasks simultaneously
-Work independently with moderate supervision
-Must have a valid driver’s license
-Must have completed undergraduate degree as of Spring 2023
Additional Desired Qualifications
-Experience working with ethnically and culturally diverse population preferred
-Experience as a Resident Assistant/Advisor preferred
-Experience in environmental science work a plus, but note that this is an administrative, not research, position
The University requires all new Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/
Time Commitment and Compensation
Compensation is $18/hour for 40 hours per week for 13 weeks (May 15 to August 11, 2023); start date is firm and must be on-site. The assistant has a private room (room and board provided), shared office space with computer, and access to Harvard Forest vehicles. The position requires on-site residence with weeknight and weekend work.
Application
Apply by sending bundled PDF cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to hfapps@fas.harvard.edu SUBJECT LINE: ASSISTANT PROGRAM COORDINATOR/RESIDENT ADVISOR. Application review will begin on March 1, 2023; the position will remain open until filled. Additional information about Harvard Forest and the summer program is available at http://harvardforest.fas.
No phone calls, please.
The Harvard Forest Community
Harvard Forest is committed to establishing and maintaining a diverse and inclusive community that collectively supports and implements our mission: the investigation, understanding, and communication of the ways in which physical, biological, and human systems interact to change our Earth. All should feel that they are critical parts of the Harvard Forest community—whatever their identity groups—while working, studying, visiting, or living here. We will welcome, recruit, develop, and advance talented staff, students, and visiting scholars from diverse backgrounds, and strive to ensure that all are included in our mission.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Harvard is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications from women and minority candidates are strongly encouraged. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.
