Agent Associate, Home Horticulture Educator & Master Gardener

University of Maryland

24d•$26,030 - $33,030•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Maryland Extension (UME) is a statewide, non-formal education system within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Its educational programs and problem-solving assistance are based on the research and experience of land-grant universities. UME employs approximately 200 faculty members and approximately 200 support staff and contractual employees across university campuses, counties, Baltimore City, and research and education centers. This half-time position supports Kent County Home Horticulture Extension Programs and is located at the Kent County Extension Office in Chestertown, Maryland. The Faculty Extension Educator administers the county’s horticulture programs, including home horticulture education and activities, training and management of Master Gardener Volunteers, collaboration with partners, outreach to clientele, and marketing. The position also provides supervision and mentoring for the Master Gardener extension program assistant. The educator develops and evaluates educational programming and materials, responds to public horticulture questions, identifies submitted plant and pest samples, shares recommendations consistent with University of Maryland guidelines, and supports program data collection and evaluation. The role builds partnerships with community organizations, including to reach traditionally underserved or marginalized audiences, and participates in county, state, and University service opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agriculture education, applied plant science, agronomy, or a related field.
At least one year of work in horticulture, agriculture, agronomy, or related fields, or a combination of education and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Demonstrated leadership and management abilities.
Working knowledge of accepted home horticulture practices.
Ability to work independently with limited guidance and instruction.
Self-motivated, flexible, innovative, and resourceful.
Experience working with volunteers.
Willingness to work with a broad audience reflecting all socioeconomic perspectives.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management.
Availability to work flexible hours, including evening and weekend programs and meetings.
Valid driver’s license and access to an automobile for travel.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in horticulture, agriculture education, applied plant science, agronomy, or a related field.
Two or more years of experience in horticulture, agriculture, agronomy, or related fields, or a combination of education and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Experience planning, conducting, and delivering community-based programs and collaborating with other organizations.
Experience writing grants and securing funds for projects.

Responsibilities

Develop, conduct, and evaluate seminars, classes, workshops, and other presentations about home horticulture.
Create educational products based on stakeholder needs, including fact sheets, publications, and social media and website content such as blogs, videos, and podcasts.
Manage the Kent County Master Gardener Program, including volunteer recruitment, training, supervision, and development of collaborations for community-based projects.
Respond promptly and professionally to client requests by phone, office visit, email, and other means, providing information and appropriate literature on home horticulture topics such as lawn care, landscape plants and trees, composting, native plants, and pest control. Consult with the local Agricultural agent as appropriate.
Identify plants, insects, and other horticulture samples submitted by clients and provide timely information and recommendations.
Provide pest control and fertilizer recommendations in accordance with University of Maryland guidelines.
Disseminate horticulture information to residents of both counties through news releases, website updates, and other channels.
Assist with collecting, reporting, and evaluating local home horticulture program impact data in accordance with funding requirements and UMD/UME policies and protocols.
Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community and other relevant organizations to implement and evaluate programs and seek new partnerships, especially to reach traditionally underserved or marginalized audiences.
Collaborate with UME field- and campus-based faculty and staff on programs and projects of mutual interest when appropriate.
Supervise and mentor the Master Gardener extension program assistant.
Participate in committees and other service opportunities at the county, state, and University levels.