Description
WVU STEM Ambassadors act as science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) instructors and camp/cabin counselors during 4-H summer camps and events in West Virginia. Given training and materials, ambassadors will deliver pre-arranged STEM curricula to youth at 4-H Camps and events across the state of West Virginia during the time frame of May 18, 2025, to August 5, 2025. Other assignments may include county 4-H day camps, summer youth program sites, state 4-H camps located at Jackson's Mill, and the West Virginia State Fair located in Lewisburg, WV in August, as well as assembly and distribution of STEM kits and materials. Room and board are provided while on assignment at camps, but ambassadors must be able to provide their own transportation to locations across West Virginia. Ambassadors will have the opportunity to work at least 25 days between May 18, 2025, and August 5, 2025, with additional opportunities possible based on need and availability (on average, ambassadors work 30 days throughout the summer). Positions are limited, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply promptly.
What you'll do:
Working under the supervision of the Extension Faculty member, the STEM Ambassador will:
1. Lead organized STEM educational classes and activities at 4-H summer camps, including:
* Deliver STEM curriculum courses
* Offer STEM activities throughout the day
* Assist Camp Director and camp staff with other duties
* Camper counseling and youth supervision in camp/cabin settings
* Other activities within the instructor's training and expertise
* Share information about their major, college, and WVU with youth
* Assemble STEM materials and kits as needed
* Participate in mandatory STEM Ambassador Training from May 18-23, 2025, at WVU Jackson's Mill
* Attend the mandatory End of Summer Meeting on August 5, 2025, at WVU Jackson's Mill
* Maintain open availability throughout June, as it is the busiest month for camps
* Communicate effectively with the 4-H STEM supervisor and WVU College Liaisons
* Follow all WVU Extension Service guidelines and policies
* Exercise mature, professional judgment in working with youth
* Prepare reports and conduct evaluations as required
* Travel to sites and conduct activities timely
* Be evaluated by their Supervisor
Pay:
$125 per day
Assignment Duration:
Approximately 4.5 months
Work Hours:
37.5 hours per week
Time Commitment:
May 18, 2025, to August 5, 2025, or part thereof. Weekends and overnight stays are required. Schedule depends on need and availability.
Locations:
Various locations across West Virginia, changing weekly during the assignment.
Qualifications
Applicants must have:
* A high school diploma or equivalent plus at least one year of college (24 credit hours). Graduate students are encouraged to apply.
* Majors/minors in STEM fields from WVU or other accredited institutions, including but not limited to:
* Eberly College: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Geology, Math, Computer Science, Psychology, Forensic Biology/Chemistry, Toxicology
* Statler College: Aerospace, Biometric, Chemical, Civil, Environmental, Computer, Electrical, Industrial, Mining, Mechanical, Petroleum Engineering
* Davis College: Agroecology, Agriculture Education, Animal & Nutritional Sciences, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Environmental Science, Horticulture, Human Nutrition, Soil and Water Science, Wildlife & Fisheries, Wood Science
* WVU School of Medicine: Exercise Physiology, Immunology, Medical Microbiology
Grant-funded positions are available for students from other institutions or majors focusing on STEM.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Energetic, enthusiastic, adaptable, diplomatic, prompt
* Ability to teach and motivate youth, fostering self-esteem, decision-making, responsibility, leadership
* Commitment to STEM education and teamwork
* Own transportation (travel stipend provided)
* Ability to pass a background check
* Effective communication skills
* Ability to observe, assess, and respond to youth behavior and safety hazards
* Physical strength and endurance for supervision duties
Questions?
Contact Suzanne McDonald at or 304-293-9892
About WVU
WVU is committed to community impact, personal and professional growth, and fostering a collaborative environment. For more, visit wvu.edu.
WVU is an Equal Opportunity Employer, welcoming applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.
#J-18808-Ljbffr