Since 1993, the Harvard Forest Summer Research Program in Ecology has been an integral part of Harvard Forest’s research and education mission. In 2025, ~20 undergraduate students will join the Harvard Forest community in researching the effects of natural and human disturbances on forest ecosystems. The Assistant Program Coordinator/Resident Advisor 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 26th – 30th)
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 2025
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
Regretfully we cannot offer visa sponsorship for this position.
Time Commitment and Compensation
Compensation is $18.50/hour for 40 hours per week for 13 weeks (May 19 to August 15, 2025); 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 3, 2025; the position will remain open until filled. Additional information about Harvard Forest and the summer program is available at http://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu.
No phone calls, please.