Woodshop Assistant

Job Title: Wood Shop Assistant
Location: Bay View Association, Petoskey, MI
Reports To: Wood Shop Director

Position Summary
The Wood Shop Assistant supports the Wood Shop Director in the daily operation of Bay View’s Recreation Wood Shop. This seasonal, hands-on position helps maintain a safe, welcoming, and creative environment for participants of all ages and experience levels.

The ideal candidate has experience with woodworking tools and machinery, demonstrates a strong commitment to shop safety, and enjoys mentoring others in a collaborative, community-centered setting.
 
Compensation & Employment Details

• Pay: $2,400 for the 8-week Assembly Season. 
  • Pre-week stipend: $210
  • Post-week stipend: $210
• Employment Type: Seasonal, full-time during Assembly Season. Housing is not provided.
• Benefits: As part of working in a vibrant historic community, Bay View seasonal staff enjoy meaningful discounts on recreational programs, education classes, and performing arts tickets. Children of seasonal staff members may also receive select program discounts, encouraging family participation in campus life, subject to program guidelines. Not eligible for insurance, retirement, or other benefits.

• Pre-Week: June 7 – June 14 (Prepare for season) 
• Boys & Girls Club Season: June 15 – August 07  
• Post-Week:  August 11 – August 15 (Post Season Clean up) 

• Assist the Wood Shop Director with daily setup, supervision, and cleanup of the wood shop.
• Ensure all shop safety protocols are consistently followed, including proper use of tools, machinery, and personal protective equipment.
• Monitor participant behavior and enforce shop rules to maintain a safe working environment.

• Provide hands-on guidance and instruction to participants, ages 7-14, ensuring safe and proper use of woodworking tools and machinery.
• Mentor and encourage participants, particularly youth and first-time woodworkers, fostering confidence, skill development, and independence.
• Support the development of creative project ideas that engage participants of varying ages and skill levels.

• Assist with routine maintenance, inspection, and minor repair of tools and machinery to ensure safe working condition.
• Help monitor inventory levels, materials, and supplies throughout the season and communicate needs to the Wood Shop Director.

• Support a positive, inclusive, and respectful atmosphere that reflects Bay View’s tradition of craftsmanship, creativity, and community.
• Collaborate effectively with the Wood Shop Director and other Recreation staff.

• Prior experience with woodworking tools and shop equipment, including saws, sanders, and power tools.
• Demonstrated knowledge of shop safety procedures and the ability to enforce them confidently.
• Ability to instruct and work patiently with youth and adults.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Availability to work flexible hours during the summer season.

• Friendly, approachable, and safety-conscious.
• Enjoys teaching, mentoring, and working in a hands-on, creative environment.
• Dependable, reliable, and committed to fostering a positive experience for all participants.
• Demonstrates integrity and genuine care for the Bay View community.