Work at The Discovery Center

 
 

Current Job Openings

Now Hiring for Seasonal Center Assistants (Open until filled)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Discovery Center is seeking two seasonal Center Assistants to work approx 30 to 37.5 hours per week with the following responsibilities:

  • Grounds Management 

    • Removal of invasive plants and weeds by hand-pulling and using garden tools

    • Maintaining native planting areas, including watering and planting

    • Work on projects to repair and improve trail features

    • Using power tools and heavy equipment, including riding mower and tractor (training will be provided)

  • Event Staffing 

    • Set-up event spaces and help visitors during rental events 

    • Clean up trash at the conclusion of events

    • Supervise events as the onsite event coordinator as needed

    • Open and/or close the building and grounds

  • Facilities Maintenance and Front Desk

    • Regularly clean indoor spaces, including floors, windows and bathrooms

    • Welcome visitors and provide information about The Discovery Center’s history, ecology, and programming

    • Answer phone calls, take messages, and ensure visitor questions are answered satisfactorily

Essential Knowledge and Skills

  • Ability to work independently and with a team

  • Availability to work a flexible schedule, including nights as needed and at least one weekend day per week

  • Friendly and professional

  • Basic computer skills

  • Ability to lift 25 lbs, with or without assistance

  • Ability to work outdoors and in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc).

  • Must be able to provide proof residence in the City of Philadelphia and comply with other City HR requirements, including 

    • COVID-19 vaccination 

    • PA Driver’s License or State Identification with current address

    • Social Security Card/PHL City ID

    • Must be able to pass a criminal background check, child abuse history check, and an FBI history check prior to beginning work

    • Pre-employment Medical History Release and Consent for Drug Testing

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

  • Interest in outdoor education, nature, and/or conservation

  • Knowledge of the city of Philadelphia and the Strawberry Mansion/Brewerytown/North Philadelphia neighborhoods preferred

  • Proficiency in Spanish and/or other non-English languages or ASL is a plus

  • Familiarity with Google Suite (Google Calendar, Google Docs, Google Drive)

Education and Work Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • 1 year experience working with the public and/or providing customer service preferred

Compensation & Benefits

  • This position will work approximately 30 to 37.5 hours per week for nine (9) months and will be on the payroll of the City of Philadelphia as an “RSI” in the Department of Parks and Recreation.

  • $15 hourly rate