Operations Assistant

COGdesign connects underserved communities with the technical design assistance they need to create master plans, gardens, parks, and historic sites. COGdesign is committed to reflecting the diversity of the communities in which we work. We place an emphasis on serving under-resourced communities and addressing environmental justice. Preference will be given to applicants who come from or reside in the communities we serve. We actively encourage candidates from broadly diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Operations Assistant will assist in the day-to-day operations as well as special projects and events across COGdesign. They will be supervised by the Executive Director (ED) to support COG’s mission through tasks and special activities in four primary areas: Administrative, Programs, Fundraising, and Governance. This position will be performed remotely for the foreseeable future.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Administration

  1. Collect, record, and process email and paper mail including checks, donor information, insurance, and general communication
  2. Maintain and update Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system
  3. Maintain Annual COG Activity and Meeting Calendars
  4. Assist in preparation and follow-up for Board meetings: ED updates, meeting agenda, notes and Work Plans
  5. Participate in bi-weekly staff meeting

Programs

  1. Assist in planning, publicizing, and coordinating special programs including 25th Anniversary Celebration, Design Reviews, Project Showcase and Fundraising events
  2. Assist with outreach and communication to project design teams and client groups

Fundraising

  1. Support fundraising initiatives including drafting and tracking of Spring and Fall appeal letters
  2. Assist in the creation of and updates for grant templates and components (2-4 annually)
  3. Provide support for tracking submitted grants status

Governance

  1. Assist in editing, updating, and distributing online (Google Docs) Board documents, guidelines, and training materials
  2. Attend bi-monthly Board meeting

QUALIFICATIONS

As a small, lean organization, the staff and Board work closely together to perform the tasks required to carry out our mission. To this end, we are seeking an individual who is highly motivated and self-directed but is comfortable asking questions and requesting support when needed. Ideally, the candidate will have had experience with small non-profit operations and protocol as well as familiarity with the neighborhoods of Boston and other communities we serve. Availability for some weekends and nights for meetings and special events is required.

Communication

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven competency with online software and online platforms including Google Drive, Zoom, and other programs. Familiarity with Pages or other graphic design software is helpful but not necessary. Receptive to mentoring as needed.

Work Style

  • Well organized and able to manage various online document systems
  • Good time management skills
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of people within the COG organization as well across client communities

Interpersonal

  • Interest and/or experience in urban landscape design, community activism and collaborative process
  • Positive energy and outlook
  • Open to feedback and a willingness to learn

APPLICATION

This position is fifteen hours per week; pay is $15-20 an hour. To apply, please complete the brief application below and upload your cover letter and resume. All fields are required.