AmeriCorps Member Positions

AC-and-Employers-for-NSChange communities and lives by becoming a Civic Works AmeriCorps member.

What is an AmeriCorps member?

Civic Works’ AmeriCorps members make a commitment to serve Baltimore’s communities for several months to a year. In return, they receive a stipend, training, and an education award that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans.

Our AmeriCorps members tutor students, grow food, create community gardens, repair homes, provide energy education, and more. They represent a diverse range of ages and backgrounds.

Who is eligible to join AmeriCorps?

In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be:

  • At least 17 years old;
  • A U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or lawful permanent resident alien; and
  • Able to pass a drug test and sex offender registry check

Open Positions

Mobile Market Assistant -300 Hour Term

Estimated Start and End Date: September 2019- December 2019

Organization and Program Description: Civic Works strengthens Baltimore’s communities through education , skills development, and community service. Civic Works goals are to build brighter futures through education and job training, grow healthy food and green communities and create safe and affordable housing. The Mobile Farmer’s Market team will engage with organizational partners and community members daily and ill serve as the representatives of Real Food Farm when making market stops and home deliveries. The Mobile Farmer’s market provides food to Healthy Food Priority Areas(formerly known as Food Deserts). Each market consists of a community member lead and a diverse array of produce. The Mobile Farmer’s Market team is responsible for tracking all market sales and related data and will assist with Real Food Farm’s deliveries.

Position Summary: Alongside the Civic Works Food and Farm staff, the Mobile Market Assistant will participate in distributing food to Healthy Food Priority Areas via the Mobile Farmers Market. The Mobile Market Assistant is expected to drive the box truck, which is outfitted with shelving and refrigeration. They are also expected to maintain friendly, engaged customer service at market stops. The Mobile Market assistant will participate in training activities throughout their term in order to improve their skills and understanding of food distribution,  sustainable urban farming practices, and whatever skills they would like to learn to advance their careers.

Days/Hours of Service: Monday- Friday, 9am-5pm, 12pm-8pm (40hrs/week)

Member Service Activities:

  • Packing and unpacking truck with produce , tables, outreach, materials.
  • Driving box truck to Mobile Market stops.
  • Engaging with customers(answering questions about produce, taking feedback, reaching out to passerby’s).
  • Clean truck and necessary materials.
  • Sharing weekly produce availability with community members.
  • Driving Mobile Farmer’s Market to scheduled stops and home deliveries.
  • Assist with tracking sales and engagement.

Desired Skills and Education:

  • Must be and remain drug free during the term.
  • Strong interest in food systems, farming, nutrition, public health, and/or the environment.
  • Be able to lift 40lbs.
  • Be willing to serve in all weather: rain, heat, wind, and cold.
  • Be willing to learn, teach, and share with fellow members and community.
  • Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and experience driving in Baltimore  is preferred.
  • Past marketing, farming, and nutrition experience is a plus.
  • If an individual has not completed one of these, they must commit to actively working towards obtaining a diploma/GED.
  • Past marketing or community engagement is a plus.

Terms of Service: This position is a 300 hour AmeriCorps service term. The AmeriCorps member will receive training, professional development, a bi-weekly stipend of $720 and an education award upon successful completion of service that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans. In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be at least 17 years old; a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National or “lawful permanent resident alien”; and able to pass a drug test and sex offender background check.

How to Apply:

  1. First, send a cover letter and resume, OR a completed application, to sjones@civicworks.com with “Mobile Market Assistant” in the subject line. Paper applications can be sent to Real Food Farm, 271 St. Lo Drive, Baltimore, MD 21213.
  2. Then, visit my.americorps.gov to login and/or create a myAmeriCorps account. Search the listings for “Real Food Farm.” Complete and submit an application to the listing as well.

Real Food Farm Urban Farmer Assistant – 300 Hour Term

Estimated Start and End Date: ASAP – August 26, 2019

Organization and Program Description:

Civic Works is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening Baltimore’s communities through education, skills development, and community service.

Real Food Farm is Civic Works’ urban farm operation that strives to build a just and sustainable food system by improving neighborhood access to healthy food, providing experience-based education, and developing an economically viable, environmentally responsible local agriculture sector.  We grow on 8-acres across two plots in northeast Baltimore. We grow over 10 tons of fruits and vegetables to sell in East and West Baltimore every year. We also value sharing knowledge and skills about how to eat and grow good food.

Position Summary:

Alongside the Civic Works’ Real Food Farm staff, the Urban Farmer Assistant will participate in all daily tasks, food production, and market activities at Clifton Park and Perlman Place Farm sites. The Urban Farmer Assistant is expected to devote one weekend per month to assist with volunteer day projects. The Urban Farmer Assistant will participate in training activities throughout their term in order to improve their skills and understanding of sustainable urban farming practices.

The Urban Farmer Assistant position requires 40 hours per week during the length of their term.

Member Service Activities:                              

  • Assisting with planting, weeding, harvesting, and crop maintenance;
  • Managing insect and weed control;
  • Carrying out general field observation and high tunnel maintenance;
  • Placing orders and picking up produce from partner farms;
  • Sharing weekly produce availability with community members;
  • Operating the Mobile Farmer’s Market including driving to scheduled stops and running the stand;
  • Assist with tracking produce harvests and community engagement;

Urban Farmer Assistants must bring a good attitude and help out with other duties including:

  • Managing youth and adult volunteers;
  • Participating in community outreach activities;
  • Leading independent projects on the farm and in the community;
  • Cleaning and organizing the farm and office;
  • Actively participating in team meetings;
  • Teaching other team members new skills and share your knowledge.

Desired Skills and Education:

  • A high school diploma or GED is required. If an individual does not has not completed one of these, they must commit to actively working towards obtaining a diploma/GED.
  • Must be and remain drug free during the term.
  • Strong interest in food systems, farming, nutrition, public health, and/or the environment.
  • Be able to lift 40 lbs.
  • Be willing to serve in all​ weather: rain, heat, wind, and cold.
  • Be willing to learn, teach, and share with your co-workers and community.
  • Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and experience driving in Baltimore is preferred.
  • Past marketing, farming, and nutrition experience is a plus but not required.

Terms of Service:

This position is a 300 hour AmeriCorps service term. The AmeriCorps member will receive training, professional development, a bi-weekly stipend of $680 and an education award of $2,960 upon successful completion of service that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans. Assistants will be strongly encouraged to attend regional farming workshops and events. Additionally, team members are welcome to take extra produce throughout the season.

In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be at least 17 years old; a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or “lawful permanent resident alien”; and able to pass a drug test and criminal and sex offender background check.

How to Apply:

  1. First, send a cover letter and resume, or a completed application, to sjones@civicworks.com with “Urban Farmer Assistant” in the subject line. Paper applications can be sent to Clayton Williams, Real Food Farm, 2701 St. Lo Drive, Baltimore, MD 21213.
  2. Then, visit my.americorps.gov to login and/or create a myAmeriCorps account. Search the listings for “Real Food Farm.” Complete and submit an application to the listing as well.

Community Lot Team Member – 300 Hour Term

Position Start Date:

March 2019

Position End Date:

November 2019

Organization and Program Description:

Civic Works strengthens Baltimore’s communities through education, skills development, and community service.  Civic Works goals are to build brighter futures through education and job training, grow healthy hood and green communities, and create safe and affordable housing.

The Community Lot Team transforms vacant and abandoned lots in Baltimore City into community gardens and green spaces. AmeriCorps members, community residents, local artists, and volunteer groups serve together to create and maintain thriving community spaces.

Position Summary:

Community Lot Team Members will transform vacant lots in locations throughout Baltimore City into communal green spaces and public gardens. Team members will learn how to properly use hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment involved in landscaping. These individuals will engage and serve with community members and help lead volunteer groups to conceptualize, create, and maintain green spaces that meet the need expressed by the community. Team members will also participate in environmental education lessons and professional development activities.

Member Service Activities:                              

  • Transform vacant Baltimore City lots into communal green spaces and public gardens.
  • Learn how to use power tools and heavy equipment responsibly and safely.
  • Learn basic and complex techniques involved in urban landscaping.
  • Establish relationships with and serve alongside community members and teammates in conceptualizing, creating, and maintaining green projects.
  • Lead and serve alongside volunteer groups to create and maintain green spaces.
  • Develop individual leadership and growth opportunities throughout service.
  • Participate in team development and education opportunities and activities.
  • Daily manual labor outdoors is required, rain or shine.
  • Develop relationships with individual and group planting partners in Baltimore and help them to create partnerships and support systems in their neighborhoods
  • Collaborate with Baltimore Orchard Project Team members on carrying out community-building and awareness events.

Desired Skills and Education:

  • Ability to serve 40 hours a week (Monday – Friday, and/or weekend service days with volunteer groups).
  • Ability to serve closely with a team.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Commit to serve and complete the entire AmeriCorps service term.
  • Strong desire to meet critical needs of diverse communities around Baltimore City
  • A High School Diploma or GED, or in the process of obtaining one
  • Ability to pass a drug test and a criminal background check, but we do hire past offenders.
  • Willingness to learn quickly and use your hands.

 Desired but not required:

  • A driver’s license is highly preferred.
  • Knowledge of basic landscaping and design techniques.
  • Knowledge of basic plant identification
  • Experience serving in low-income communities and experience in community outreach
  • Basic computer skills, including sending emails and creating spreadsheets
  • Relationships with community members and/or organizations

Terms of Service:

This position is a 300 hour AmeriCorps service term. The AmeriCorps member will receive training, professional development, a bi-weekly stipend of $680 and an education award of $2,960 upon successful completion of service that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans. Assistants will be strongly encouraged to attend regional farming workshops and events. Additionally, team members are welcome to take extra produce throughout the season.

In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be at least 17 years old; a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or “lawful permanent resident alien”; and able to pass a drug test and criminal and sex offender background check.

How to Apply:

  1. First, send a cover letter and resume, OR a completed application, to jdelmore@civicworks.com with “CLT Member Position” in the subject line. Paper applications can be sent to Julian Delmore, Community Lot Team, 2701 St. Lo Drive, Baltimore, MD 21213.
  2. Then, visit americorps.gov to login and/or create a myAmeriCorps account. Search the listings for “Community Lot Team,” Complete and submit an application to the listing as well.

Cities for All Ages Construction Apprentice – 675 Hour Term

Position Start Date:

March 2019

Position End Date:

July 2019

Organization and Program Description:

Civic Works strengthens Baltimore’s communities through education, skills development, and community service.  Civic Works goals are to build brighter futures through education and job training, grow healthy hood and green communities, and create safe and affordable housing.

Cities for All Ages makes homes safer for older adults living in Baltimore City. Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults, and injuries sustained from falls can prevent older adults from living at home and participating in family and community activities. We provide services to Baltimore senior citizens over the age of 65, including fall prevention information, safety repairs, referrals to supportive services, and occupational therapy.

Position Summary:

The Cities for All Ages Construction Apprentice will assist the Construction Leader in performing home repair tasks for our elderly clients. The Construction Apprentice will install grab bars, railings, doorbells, and motion lights, remove trip hazards, and learn how to use the appropriate tools and materials to complete these tasks.

Member Service Activities:                              

The Construction Apprentice position requires standing, walking, lifting, and carrying heavy materials, as well as using small hand and power tools. The Construction Apprentice will need to be comfortable reading a tape measure and identifying the materials needed for each project. They will use drills and screw guns to prepare holes for fasteners and mounts, and drive them securely into different types of surfaces.  The Construction Apprentice will learn how to properly use spray paint. They will be responsible for keeping the worksite organized and safe, and cleaning up thoroughly after each project is complete.

Desired Skills and Education:

No previous training is required.  We provide training for the tools and materials used, worksite safety, and basic math skills.

Terms of Service:

This position is a 675 hour AmeriCorps service term. The AmeriCorps member will receive training, professional development, a bi-weekly stipend of $680 and an education award of $2,225 upon successful completion of service that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans.

In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be at least 17 years old; a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or “lawful permanent resident alien”; and able to pass a drug test and criminal and sex offender background check.

How to Apply:

  1. Visit my.americorps.gov to create a myAmeriCorps account and search listings for Cities for All Ages.
  • If you already have an account:
    • Login
    • Go to search listings
    • Under program name write Cities for All Ages
    • Select position and click apply
  • New users:
    • Select “apply” under login box
    • Follow steps to create a myAmeriCorps account and application
    • Go to search listings
    • Under program name type Cities for All Ages and click apply.
  1. Forward your Civic Works AmeriCorps Application, resume and cover letter, which explains why you are interested in the position by replying to this posting to gfelser@civicworks.com.

Little Gunpowder Farm Assistant Farmer – 300 Hour Term

Position Start Date:

May 2019

Position End Date:

November, 2019

Organization and Program Description:

Civic Works strengthens Baltimore’s communities through education, skills development, and community service.  Civic Works goals are to build brighter futures through education and job training, grow healthy hood and green communities, and create safe and affordable housing.

Little Gunpowder Farm (LGF) strives toward a just and sustainable food system by improving neighborhood access to healthy food, providing experience-based education, and developing an economically viable, environmentally responsible local agriculture sector. Little Gunpowder Farm serves residents of the Baltimore area by providing high-quality vegetables at an affordable price, while prioritizing environmental stewardship of the land.

Position Summary:

The Assistant Farmer will serve with the Farm Manager on all projects related to field and greenhouse production to raise vegetables, herbs, flowers for markets, including the Community Supported Agriculture program, potential farmers markets, restaurants, and Real Food Farm’s Mobile Farmers Market. The Assistant Farmer will participate in training activities throughout their term in order to improve their skills and understanding of sustainable farming practices. The Assistant Farmer position requires 40 hours per week during the length of their term.

Member Service Activities:                              

Specific responsibilities include: assisting in the harvesting and washing of produce; field preparation, planting, irrigation, weeding, cultivation, pest management, and all other tasks related to growing vegetables; assisting and/or managing farmers market stands (proceeds are used for continued food production); delivering produce to food hub and other markets;  helping maintain farm equipment and irrigation system.

Candidates must bring a good attitude, an open mind, and willingness to learn and assist with:

  • Managing youth and adult volunteers;
  • Participating in community outreach activities;
  • Leading independent projects on the farm;
  • Practicing good organizational skills and work site maintenance;
  • Actively participating in team meetings;
  • Teaching other team members new skills and sharing your knowledge.

Desired Skills and Education:

  • One year organic vegetable production experience is desired.
  • Minimum age requirement is age 17.
  • A high school diploma or GED is required. If an individual does not has not completed one of these, they must commit to actively work towards obtaining a diploma/GED.
  • Must be and remain drug free during the term.
  • Be able to lift 50 lbs repeatedly
  • Be willing and able to serve outside in all weather: rain, heat, wind, and cold.
  • Be willing to learn, teach, and share with your co-workers and community.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required.
  • Strong interest/experience in food systems, farming, nutrition, public health, and/or the environment is a plus.

Terms of Service:

This position requires 40 hours a week throughout the term in order to complete the 1700 AmeriCorps term of service between May 2019 and November 2019. Required late evening and Saturday events will cause the weekly schedule to shift.

The 300-hour Civic Works Americorps position includes a biweekly stipend of $680 and an educational award of $3,047.50 upon completion of service (that can be used for college, trade school, or to repay qualified student loans). Funding for americorps members to participate in workshops and other professional development opportunities is also available. Assistants will be strongly encouraged to attend regional farming workshops and events. Additionally, team members are welcome to take extra produce throughout the season.

In order to be a Civic Works AmeriCorps member, you must be at least 17 years old; a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or “lawful permanent resident alien”; and able to pass a drug test and criminal and sex offender background check.

How to Apply:

  1. First, send a cover letter and resume, or a completed application, to dmoran@civicworks.com with “Assistant Farmer” in the subject line. Paper applications can be sent to Civic Works 2701 St. Lo Drive, Baltimore, MD 21213.
  2. Then, apply for the position through AmeriCorps by visiting myamericorps.gov to login or create a my AmeriCorps account and search listings for “Little Gunpowder Farm.”

Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. The start date for this position is expected to be on or around March 18, 2019.

AmeriCorps Outreach Coordinator – 450 Hour Term

Position Start Date:

February 2019

Position End Date:

June 2019

Number of individual members serving in this position:

One (1)

Member Immediate Supervisor:

Janeé Pelletier

Days / Hours of Service:

Monday through Friday; 9:00am – 4:00pm, flexible

Host Site Agency Name & Complete Address of Host Site Location(s):

  • MdBio Foundation, 9841 Washingtonian Blvd, Suite 415, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
  • High schools across Maryland (statewide). Members must have own vehicle and will drive 250-500 miles per week. Site locations will be in Baltimore area (5 weeks), Frederick County (2 weeks), Anne Arundel county, Montgomery County (2 weeks), Prince George’s County, and several sites on the Eastern Shore (3 weeks). Mileage and travel/hotel provided.

Host Site Agency Name & Complete Address of Host Site Location(s):

MdBio Foundation, 9841 Washingtonian Blvd, Suite 415, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Organization/Agency Mission and/or Goals:

MdBio Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, sparks interest in life-changing career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for underserved communities. MdBio does this through innovative, effective and experiential STEM education programs for middle school and high school students, and workforce development programs for adults.

Program Mission and/or Goals:

MdBio Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, sparks interest in life-changing career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for underserved communities. MdBio does this through innovative, effective and Our programs focus on students who are typically underrepresented in STEM careers, especially those from low-income communities. Introducing students to real-world, problem-centric curriculum allows them to gain a deeper appreciation for STEM subjects, better equips them to retain information learned in the classroom, and fosters the development of natural inquiry, higher-level thinking, and creativity.

The goal of MdBio is to provide support to students from under-resourced neighborhoods and communities to boost their proficiency and self efficacy in math and science. MdBio achieves this by engaging students in academically rigorous programs focused on science and technology, increasing their awareness of STEM career opportunities, and encouraging students to choose additional STEM coursework, college majors, or careers. MdBio also offers community engagement to provide students’ family members opportunities to learn about STEM so they may better support their student at home.

Community Need:

Enhancing diversity in the pipeline of students and early-career employees who are actively choosing to study and work in STEM is the key to long-term economic growth and competitiveness. MdBio Foundation actively seeks to engage students from underrepresented minority groups and level the playing field by bringing hands-on learning experiences to the school’s parking lot. We believe that any student can achieve success in STEM.

Our programs focus on students who are typically underrepresented in STEM careers, especially those from low-income communities. Introducing students to real-world, problem-centric curriculum allows them to gain a deeper appreciation for STEM subjects, better equips them to retain information learned in the classroom, and fosters the development of natural inquiry, higher-level thinking, and creativity.

Member Position Summary:

The AmeriCorps Outreach Coordinator is a passionate and well-written individual who helps engage MdBio’s digital audiences through creative and collaborative content. The Outreach Coordinator will design and develop social media campaigns and content for a variety of platforms, support their team members, build engagement, and share the mission of the organization in meaningful and compelling way. Throughout their term, the Coordinator will educate middle and high school students about STEM careers, bioscience, chemistry, engineering, and technology. The Outreach Coordinator will also team up to ten fellow Americorps members and assist MdBio educators in educating small groups of high schoolers. The Outreach Coordinator will also assist in the delivery of programs at community and school events.

Necessary Training or Training Plan to be implemented prior to Member Placement:

  • Student Engagement
  • Classroom Management
  • Mentorship
  • Conflict Resolution
  • CPRS/First Aid
  • STEM content and mobile laboratory instructor training to be provided after placement

Member Impact:

This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a team that is changing how STEM education is delivered, with a specific focus on underserved communities. The ideal team member will be high-energy, creative, flexible, solutions-oriented, and able to handle rapidly changing circumstances with grace. In return, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to be part of the next big thing in STEM education, excellent benefits, and an entrepreneurial workplace environment that supports individual success. MdBio Foundation was recently named one of the 2018 Best Places to Work by Washington Business Journal.

Essential Functions of Position:

  • Coordinates scheduling for a statewide AmeriCorps program team, including teaching assignments, after-school activities, and community events.
  • Conceptualizes, creates and publishes daily content (combining both original copy and images as well as images and videos provided by the MdBio team) on Twitter, LinkedIN, Facebook, and Instagram that shares stories of our successes, builds meaningful connections, and encourages engagement.
  • Collects and organizes photos and videos from MdBio field staff, for use in social outreach.
  • Records, edits, and creates videos that showcase MdBio’s performance and enhance our partnerships.
  • Grows online social networks by increasing followers and interactions. Employs innovative tactics to grow the audiences and reach influencers.
  • Collaborates with VP, Communications and VP, Partnerships to ensure a consistent campaign across channels.
  • Researches articles, stories, resources or other content to enhance MdBio’s original content.
  • Reviews data on the performance of social media platforms and adjust plans or strategies to optimize outreach.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Comply with AmeriCorps terms, including being a U.S. Resident or Lawful Permanent Resident
  • Graduate of or currently enrolled in a two- or four-year degree-seeking program (such as B.A. or A.A.) in a marketing, communications, business, or related field required. This position requires an individual with outstanding customer service and attitude who is friendly, outgoing and serves well as part of a fast-paced team.
  • Excellent writer with a passion for writing both short and long copy; writing samples required.
  • Fluency with graphic design programs and video/ photo editing software. Familiarity with key social media tools (Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook), social media queuing software (HootSuite, Buffer) and with Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
  • Familiarity with social media analytics such as Facebook insights, Google Analytics, and Twitter analytics.
  • Well-documented and professionally appropriate social media presence.
  • Trustworthy self-starter with proven ability to see projects through to completion. Must be able to serve independently with initiative to manage own assignments without much supervision. (S)he must be flexible and adapt well in unpredictable situations.
  • Must have own transportation and be available for day, evening and weekend functions. MdBio Foundation mobile laboratories travel to a different school each week during the school year.
  • Must pass a criminal and sex offender background check, and able to pass a drug screening
  • Reliable and punctual; timeliness and dependability are critical for this role. Excellent time management required.
  • Ability to follow instructions and serves cooperatively with other team members, MdBio educators, staff and administrators
  • Interest in science, technology, engineering, math, education, or any other similar field
  • Must be able to use and have access to the internet
  • Ability to serve independently and with a team
  • Possess excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, and be self-motivated

Required Academic and Experience Qualifications:

  • Pursuing or has completed higher education, two or four year degree, in the areas of communications, marketing, events, business, education, or related fields
  • At least two years working with youth
  • Possess strong communication and problem solving skills
  • Demonstrate effective time management and organization skills

How to Apply:

STEM Community Outreach Specialist – 450 Hour Term

Position Start Date:  

2/4/2019

Position End Date:

6/7/2019

Number of individual members serving in this position:

Four (4)

Member Immediate Supervisor:

Emily Freeland

Days / Hours of Service:

Monday through Friday; 7:00am-3:00pm, varies weekly according to school schedule

Host Site Agency Name & Complete Address of Host Site Location(s):

  • MdBio Foundation, 9841 Washingtonian Blvd, Suite 415, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
  • High schools across Maryland (statewide). Members must have own vehicle and will drive 250-500 miles per week. Site locations will be in Baltimore area (5 weeks), Frederick County (2 weeks), Anne Arundel county, Montgomery County (2 weeks), Prince George’s County, and several sites on the Eastern Shore (3 weeks). Mileage and travel/hotel provided.

Organization/Agency Mission and/or Goals:

MdBio Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, sparks interest in life-changing career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for underserved communities. MdBio does this through innovative, effective and experiential STEM education programs for middle school and high school students, and workforce development programs for adults.

Program Mission and/or Goals:

Mobile eXploration Lab is the country’s largest, most advanced mobile laboratory. Called MXLab for short, the lab expands technology and laboratory science experiences and pique students’ interests in STEM learning and careers across Maryland.  Inside the lab, MdBio’s educators engage participants in hands-on and minds-on experiences using technologies not available in schools. MXLab instructors combine MdBio’s core STEM curriculum with data set modeling, virtual reality, cybersecurity and game-based learning.

The goal of MXLab is to provide support to students from under-resourced neighborhoods and communities to boost their proficiency and self efficacy in math and science.  MXLab achieves this by engaging students in academically rigorous programs focused on science and technology, increasing their awareness of STEM career opportunities, and encouraging students to choose additional STEM coursework, college majors, or careers.  MXLab also offers community engagement to provide students’ family members opportunities to learn about STEM so they may better support their student at home.

Community Need:

Enhancing diversity in the pipeline of students and early-career employees who are actively choosing to study and work in STEM is the key to long-term economic growth and competitiveness. MdBio Foundation actively seeks to engage students from underrepresented minority groups and level the playing field by bringing hands-on learning experiences to the school’s parking lot. We believe that any student can achieve success in STEM.

Our programs focus on students who are typically underrepresented in STEM careers, especially those from low-income communities. Introducing students to real-world, problem-centric curriculum allows them to gain a deeper appreciation for STEM subjects, better equips them to retain information learned in the classroom, and fosters the development of natural inquiry, higher-level thinking, and creativity.

Member Position Summary:

A  STEM Community Outreach Specialist is a passionate and well-spoken individual who educates middle and high school students about STEM careers, bioscience, chemistry, engineering, and technology aboard MXLab during and after school at Maryland schools. Coordinator will engage with students and assist MdBio educators, and mentor high school students in small groups.  The Coordinator will also assist in the delivery of programs at community and school events.

Member Impact:

This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a team that is changing how STEM education is delivered, with a specific focus on underserved communities. The ideal team member will be high-energy, creative, flexible, solutions-oriented, and able to handle rapidly changing circumstances with grace. In return, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to be part of the next big thing in STEM education, excellent benefits, and an entrepreneurial work environment that supports individual success. MdBio Foundation was recently named one of the 2018 Best Places to Work by Washington Business Journal.

Essential Functions of Position:

  • Serve as a member of statewide AmeriCorps program team, including teaching assignment, after-school activities, and community events
  • Teach age appropriate activities and extended or enrichment opportunities to students onboard the country’s largest mobile STEM laboratory, following MdBio’s curriculum (content training provided)
  • Assist students and teachers in developing STEM skills, both onboard the mobile laboratory and in classroom settings
  • Guide and support student engagement in STEM and related career exploration
  • Serve as a student mentor and positive role model
  • Support in planning and execution of mobile laboratory, community and school events
  • Maintain required training certifications
  • Serve as a positive, flexible, solutions-oriented member of a fast-paced team
  • Assist with organization and preparation of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment
  • Assist with logistics and scheduling for school visits and events, including daily schedule, parking information, and instructor support
  • Assist with cleaning and maintaining mobile laboratory each day

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Comply with AmeriCorps terms, including being a U.S. Resident or Lawful Permanent Resident
  • Must possess own transportation (location will be at a different school each week) and be willing to travel up to 500 miles per week (mileage reimbursed). Hotel accommodations and meals/travel expenses will be paid when distance exceeds 75 miles of member’s home.
  • Must pass a criminal and sex offender background check, and able to pass a drug screening
  • Reliable and punctual; timeliness and dependability are critical for this role. Excellent time management required.
  • Ability to follow instructions and work cooperatively with other team members, MdBio educators, staff and administrators
  • Interest in science, technology, engineering, math, education, or any other similar field
  • Must be able to use and have access to the internet
  • Ability to work independently and with a team
  • Possess excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, and be self-motivated

Required Academic and Experience Qualifications:

  • Must have completed a minimum of 24 hours of undergraduate coursework at a community college or above
  • At least two years working with youth
  • Possess strong communication and problem solving skills
  • Demonstrate effective time management and organization skills

How to Apply:

Some programs have additional requirements and restrictions.

Prohibited Activities*

As an AmeriCorps member you may NOT participate in the following activities during service hours:

  • Political Advocacy: AmeriCorps members cannot engage in political advocacy. They cannot advocate for legislation or for a political candidate in any way. They cannot conduct voter registration drives or lobby government officials at any level.
  • Religious Instruction: AmeriCorps members cannot engage in religious instruction. They cannot conduct religious studies, prayer groups, pastoral counseling, or any other activity promoting or providing information about religion. This does not prohibit AmeriCorps members from participating in non-religious activities at religious meetings or services.
  • Abortion referrals: AmeriCorps members cannot provide abortion services or referrals for receipt of such services.
  • Benefit a Business: AmeriCorps members cannot engage in service that benefits a for-profit business, a partisan political organization, or a labor union.

In addition, Civic Works AmeriCorps members may NOT participate in the following activities during service hours.

  • Clerical Service: AmeriCorps members may engage in clerical activities, such as photocopying, stuffing envelopes or answering phones for their own project.  They cannot engage in these activities in assisting another person.
  • Fund Raising: AmeriCorps members cannot seek in-kind donations and assist with fund raising events, mailings, or other activities, write grants (or portions of grants) or participate in capital fund raising activities or campaigns

The list above is a summary, for detailed prohibited activities go to the following link: http://www.nationalservice.gov/sites/default/files/documents/acprohibited_activities.pdf

Corpsmember Application

For more information about AmeriCorps, visit www.nationalservice.gov
For more information about AmeriCorps in Maryland, visit www.gosv.maryland.gov

Civic Works welcomes all corpsmember applicants and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Civic Works complies with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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