Career opportunities at COA

Summary

Operating under general supervision from the Dining Services Co-directors, the Weekend Dining Manager is responsible for oversight of weekend dining operations, including brunch and dinner service, and for supervising the weekend dining team. This role ensures smooth, welcoming, and efficient meal service while maintaining COA Dining’s commitment to creative, healthy, scratch cooking and inclusive community values. This position works weekends and some weekday nights or daytime shifts, as discussed during the hiring process. This is an 11-month, permanent, benefits eligible position with December off.

Essential job functions

• Oversee all weekend dining operations, including brunch and dinner service
• Supervise, support, and coordinate the weekend dining staff, including cooks and student employees
• Ensure quality, consistency, and timeliness of food preparation and service
• Maintain safety, sanitation, and food handling standards during all shifts
• Serve as the on-site point of contact for Dining Services during weekend operations
• Communicate operational issues, staffing needs, and supply concerns to the Dining Services Co-directors
• Assist with setup, breakdown, and coordination for regular service and special events as needed
• Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive atmosphere for students, staff, and guests
• Actively participate in the COA community by attending meetings as appropriate and assigned
• Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Prior experience in food service, dining operations, or kitchen management
• Knowledge of vegetarian and vegan cooking
• Commitment to creative, healthy, scratch cooking
• Ability to work well in a congenial, collaborative atmosphere
• Sensitivity to and awareness of different cultures and the ability to interact successfully with college-age students and their families

Preferred

• Supervisory or team-lead experience

Compensation

• Pay rate is $26/hour, 35 hours per week
• Benefits package includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement, vacation, and tuition relief for employee and dependents

How to apply

• Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Ken Sebelin, [email protected]: a cover letter describing their interest in, and qualifications for, this position; a resume; contact information for three professional references. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Summary

Operating under general supervision from the Dining Services Co-Directors and the Weekend Dining Manager, the Weekend Cook is responsible for assisting with weekend brunch and dinner preparation, service, and clean-up. Weekend work is required, with schedules discussed during the hiring process. This is an 11-month, permanent, benefits eligible position with December off.

Essential job functions

• Assist with preparation of weekend brunch and dinner meals
• Assist with serving and clean-up, including dishwashing
• Participate in setup and breakdown of regular meal service and special events
• Follow established food safety and sanitation procedures
• Communicate kitchen or service issues to the Weekend Dining Manager
• Work collaboratively with other dining staff to ensure smooth service
• Actively participate in the COA community as appropriate
• Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Cooking experience in a professional setting
• Ability to work well in a congenial environment
• Sensitivity to and awareness of different cultures, as well as, the ability to interact successfully with college age students and their families

Preferred

• Knowledge of vegetarian and vegan cooking
• Experience with creative, healthy, scratch cooking

Compensation

• Pay range is $23-$24/hour, commesurate with experience, 35 hours per week
• Benefits package includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement, vacation, and tuition relief for employee and dependents

How to apply

• Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Ken Sebelin, [email protected]: a cover letter describing their interest in, and qualifications for, this position; a resume; contact information for three professional references. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Summary

This position provides broad support to the Provost’s Office and contributes to the effective functioning of Academic Services. The position manages academic policy documentation, coordinates academic space use, supports academic advising and probation processes, provides support for faculty searches, maintains faculty personnel records, administers pre‑college programs, and provides support services for the Provost’s Office.

Essential job functions

• Leads the annual revision, publication, and dissemination of the COA Course Catalog & Academic Handbook and the Academic Year Calendar
• Coordinates the review and approval process for teaching assistants in collaboration with academic leadership and the work‑study coordinator
• Maintains accurate records of research associates and faculty associates
• Supports data collection and reporting related to accreditation and institutional research
• Manages academic space use and planning during the academic year
• Serves on the webteam as a liaison for faculty and academic services, and maintains online course profiles and academic program content to ensure accuracy and alignment with institutional standards
• Provides administrative and logistical support for pre-college programs, including marketing, applications and payment management, student communications, and instructional arrangements
• Serve as an advisor for Service members, maintains familiarity with the VA School Certifying Official Handbook, and meets annually with the School Certifying Official for training
• Coordinates application submission, review, and disbursement for COA’s Fund for Expeditionary Learning
• Assists faculty search committee chairs with hiring workflows, including job posting, candidate materials management, monitoring search progress, coordinating interviews, and documenting search outcomes
• Assists with onboarding new faculty.
• Serves as the college’s academic probation officer and on the college’s CARE team
• Provides scheduling support for the Provost’s Office and assists with partnership administration, including assisting with developing and maintaining MOUs
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the provost to support Academic Services and broader institutional initiatives

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will have experience in an academic environment and proficiency with office technologies such as Microsoft Office, Excel, Student Information Systems, and Access. Strong written and oral communication skills, excellent organizational and project‑management abilities, and the capacity to handle sensitive and confidential information are essential.

Candidates should be comfortable working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, demonstrate initiative, and be able to work independently and collaboratively. A bachelor’s degree and/or relevant academic or administrative experience is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will receive relevant training.

Compensation

• Annual salary range is $58,000 to $65,000, commensurate with experience
• Benefits package includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement, vacation, and tuition relief for employee and dependents

How to apply

• Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Provost & Dean of Faculty Kourtney Collum at [email protected].

Summary

Summer Field Studies is looking for knowledgeable and outgoing mentors to lead our nature based day program for campers in the first through sixth grades. As a Program Lead you will provide a safe and cooperative community atmosphere while leading campers on excursions and facilitating unique learning experiences. We seek leaders who are excited to balance rugged outdoor adventure with a thoughtful creative spark.

About our program

Summer Field Studies is a day camp for children designed to inspire curiosity and deepen their connection to the natural world. Through hands-on exploration and outdoor adventures campers learn about the ecosystems of Mount Desert Island while making new friends. With a 5:1 camper-to-staff ratio, we prioritize high-quality engagement and meaningful relationships. Each week follows a specific theme, serving as a springboard for:

• Outdoor adventures: Hiking mountain trails, tracking wildlife
• Scientific inquiry: Investigating stream health and exploring coastal ecosystems.
• Creative expression: Integrating arts, crafts, and building projects into the natural landscape.

Commitment

Applicants must be able to commit to the entire 2025 season, June 15–August, 14.

Impact and responsibilities

• Creative curriculum design: You will help develop and create programming based on weekly themes. This includes preparing activities that blend adventurous exploration with creative projects like arts and scientific investigations.
• Leadership and mentorship: Facilitate experiential and place based education activities in collaboration with your peer leaders and the director.
• Safety and community: Create a safe and fun environment for all activities while upholding program standards and values.
• Operational support: Contribute to the program by assisting with equipment inventory and evaluating the success of weekly sessions.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Possession of or willingness to acquire First Aid and CPR and Water Safety certifications prior to the start date.
• Ability to commit to the entire 2026 season.

The ideal candidate

• Is currently pursuing or holds a degree in place based education or elementary education or life sciences or a related field.
• Has experience working with children in a camp or educational setting.
• Possesses a strong knowledge of ecology and natural history specifically regarding coastal Maine.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm and leadership with a flexible mindset.

Special note on driving

• Some excursions require children to be transported by vehicle. Licensed drivers 21 years or older who have a satisfactory driving record are eligible to drive our passenger vans for these outings.

Program schedule

• Staff training: In person paid training occurs from June 15 through June 20, 2026.
• Core programming: Camp runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting June 22 and ending August 14, with the exception of holidays.
• Work hours: Leads are required to work from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or until all responsibilities are fulfilled.
• Supplemental hours: To ensure a full 40-hour week, leads have the option to assist with before- and after-care shifts. This is a great way to build deeper bonds with campers while maintaining a steady schedule.

How to apply

• Please submit your application here.

Summary
The Custodian supports the Buildings and Grounds team by ensuring the cleanliness, safety, and overall upkeep of campus buildings. This position plays a central role in maintaining a welcoming and functional environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Essential job functions

• Clean and maintain academic and administrative buildings, including floors, bathrooms, and common areas
• Assist with garbage and recycling collection and disposal
• Support event setup and breakdown across campus
• Monitor and maintain inventory of cleaning supplies; coordinate ordering with Head Custodian
• Perform minor maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs
• Report maintenance issues to appropriate staff
• Assist with winter weather response, including snow and ice management
• Supervise work-study students performing custodial duties
• Collaborate with Buildings and Grounds staff to support campus operations
• Participate in campus community meetings and activities
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum six months of related experience
• Ability to manage priorities and adapt to changing expectations
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse populations
• Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record

Preferred

• Experience working in a campus or institutional setting
• Familiarity with cleaning equipment and safety protocols
• Interest in contributing to an inclusive, community-oriented workplace

Working conditions / physical demands
The information below describes the general working conditions and physical/mental demands typically associated with this position. They are not intended to cover every situation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

General expectations:

• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
• Engage with students, employees, and members of the public in a respectful, thoughtful, and community-minded manner
• Manage multiple tasks, shifting priorities, and periods of time-sensitive work

Work environment:

• Work occurs in office settings, academic buildings, laboratories, workshops, outdoor campus areas, or other college facilities
• Noise levels are generally moderate, though some environments may experience occasional louder activity
• The pace of work can vary throughout the year and may include periods of increased activity

Physical and cognitive demands:

• Movement throughout campus buildings and outdoor areas required
• Ability to lift or move heavier items (up to 35-50 pounds) and perform more physically demanding tasks
• Use of cleaning equipment and tools.
• Vision requirements include the ability to read printed and digital materials and adjust focus as needed
• Cognitive demands include sustained attention, problem solving, communication, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances

Compensation
Hourly pay rate is $22-24/hour, commensurate with experience.

Benefits package includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement, vacation, short- and long-term disability, and College of the Atlantic tuition relief for employee and dependents.

To apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Dan Daigle, Chief Facilities and Safety Officer, [email protected]: a cover letter describing their interest in, and qualifications for, this position; a resume or curriculum vitae; and contact information for three professional references. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Summary
The Lead Groundskeeper supports the Buildings and Grounds team by overseeing the maintenance, repair, and improvement of campus landscapes. This role is central to ensuring that outdoor spaces are safe, functional, and aligned with the college’s mission and aesthetic.

Essential job functions

• Oversee maintenance and care of campus grounds and landscapes
• Ensure outdoor areas are clean, safe, and accessible
• Prepare outdoor spaces for classes, events, and campus use
• Supervise and train work-study students and seasonal staff
• Lead snow and ice removal operations across campus
• Maintain and operate grounds equipment (mowers, tractors, snow removal equipment, hand tools)
• Track and manage inventory of grounds equipment and supplies
• Participate in campus planning and landscaping committees
• Assist with building maintenance and custodial tasks as needed
• Collaborate with Buildings and Grounds team on campus-wide initiatives
• Participate in campus community meetings and activities
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum three years of related experience
• Knowledge of landscaping, groundskeeping, and related equipment
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Strong organizational and supervisory skills

Preferred

• Prior supervisory experience
• Experience in higher education or institutional settings
• Familiarity with sustainable land care practices

Working conditions / physical demands
The information below describes the general working conditions and physical/mental demands typically associated with this position. They are not intended to cover every situation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

General expectations:

• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism
• Engage with students, employees, and members of the public in a respectful, thoughtful, and community-minded manner
• Manage multiple tasks, shifting priorities, and periods of time-sensitive work

Work environment:

• Primarily includes outdoor work in various weather conditions
• Noise levels are generally moderate, though some environments may experience occasional louder activity
• The pace of work can vary throughout the year and may include periods of increased activity

Physical and cognitive demands:

• Continuous walking, standing, bending, and lifting
• Ability to lift or move heavier items (up to 35-50 pounds) and perform more physically demanding tasks
• Operation of machinery and tools
• Vision requirements may include the ability to read printed and digital materials and adjust focus as needed
• Cognitive demands include sustained attention, problem solving, communication, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances

Compensation
Hourly pay rate is $22-24/hour, commensurate with experience.

Benefits package includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement, vacation, short- and long-term disability, and College of the Atlantic tuition relief for employee and dependents.

To apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Dan Daigle, Chief Facilities and Safety Officer, [email protected]: a cover letter describing their interest in, and qualifications for, this position; a resume or curriculum vitae; and contact information for three professional references. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.