Program Support Assistant

Part-Time Seasonal Job Posting: Program Support Assistant (PSA)

The Mecosta Conservation District (Mecosta CD) is seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Program Support Assistant (PSA) to assist with conservation efforts and community outreach in Mecosta County This part-time, seasonal position requires 20-24 hours per week for a duration of 16 weeks, with the possibility of extension based on successful fundraising and grant applications. Reporting to the District Administrator, the PSA will play a key role in supporting the District’s programs, improving organizational capacity, and enhancing public engagement through outreach, events, and communications. While the majority of tasks will be administrative, there will also be opportunities for fieldwork, including events such as the annual tree sale, community outreach, and fundraising initiatives.

Job Status:      Hourly, part-time, seasonal, 20-24 hours per week, with potential for extension on successful fundraising and/or grant funding.

Start Date:      January 13th, 2025, but can be flexible for the right candidate. Position currently funded through May 2nd, 2025.

Pay:                 $17 per hour, paid bi-weekly

Benefits:          Paid vacation and sick days, Paid Holidays; IRA retirement plan with employer match

Schedule:        Flexible work schedule, between the hours of 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Some events will events may require flexibility, including the occasional need to work evenings or weekends.

Location:        USDA Service Center, 18260 Northland Drive, Big Rapids, MI

Responsibilities & Duties:

• Program Support & Outreach:
• Assist with developing and maintaining relationships with partners, stakeholders, and community organizations to foster a collaborative conservation network.
• Respond to inquiries from the public (phone, email, walk-ins, and virtual platforms), providing accurate information or referring to appropriate resources.
• Event Coordination & Logistics:
• Plan, organize, and assist with logistics for conservation events such as the annual tree sale, native plant sale, and field days. May require coordination with vendors, speakers, and volunteers to ensure event success.
• Prepare materials for events, including printed handouts, signage, and promotional displays.
• Communications & Marketing:
• Social Media Management: Manage and grow Mecosta CD’s presence on various social media platforms ensuring regular posts and engagement with followers.
• Website Administration: Regularly update content on the Mecosta CD website, ensuring that event details, program information, and resources are current.
• Newsletter: Design and distribute the Mecosta CD’s e-newsletter on a regular basis, featuring upcoming events, conservation tips, and program highlights.
• Advertising: Create promotional materials (e.g., flyers, brochures, banners) for events and educational initiatives, using tools like Canva.
• Press Releases: Draft and distribute press releases to local media outlets regarding Mecosta CD activities, milestones, and conservation efforts.
• Administrative Support:
• File Management: Organize both physical and digital filing systems to ensure easy access to important documents, program materials, and grant applications.
• Maintain accurate records for internal documentation, including attendance at events, volunteer hours, and program statistics.
• Grant Writing & Fundraising:
• Research potential funding sources, including grants and other external funding opportunities, to support conservation initiatives.
• Assist with drafting and submitting grant proposals, including gathering necessary information and ensuring timely submission.
• Financial & Accounting Support:
• Input basic financial data into QuickBooks and assist with tracking expenses for specific projects or events.
• Help prepare financial reports for grants and other funding sources, ensuring proper documentation for auditing purposes.
• Other Duties as Assigned:
• Provide general administrative and operational support to the District Administrator and team, assisting with day-to-day tasks as needed.
• Assist with maintaining partner, contractor, and mailing lists for newsletters, event invitations, and other communication efforts.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma
• Positive attitude, good sense of humor and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Adobe, Canva, MS Word and Excel, and ability to learn new computer applications
• Extremely detail-oriented and self-starter

• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple tasks at once
• Ability to sit for extended periods and lift up to 20 pounds
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Preferred Qualifications

• College-level coursework in marketing, natural resources, environmental science, environmental education, website development, computer science, communication, administration, accounting, or a related field plus 1-year experience (or a combination of education and experience).

• Experience with website administration, social media management, and digital marketing
• Strong writing, presentation, fundraising, and public relations skills

To Apply

• Send resume, cover letter, unofficial transcripts, and up to 3 references combined into one pdf file to:
  • Brook Baumann, District Administrator, brook.baumann@macd.org
  • Email heading: Program Support Assistant

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications accepted until Sunday, December 8th, or until filled. Interviews expected to take place during the week of December 16th, 2024.

Please visit our website as www.mecostacd.org to learn more about the Mecosta CD. You may also email or call the office at (989) 309-9229 with any questions.

Mission Statement:

 To be the provider for natural resource management through education and technical assistance.

Mecosta Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.