Extension Educator/Master Gardener Coordinator

Penn State University • Centre County, PA

9d • $42,100 - $61,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Penn State Extension is seeking an Extension Educator/Master Gardener Coordinator in Centre County to oversee the general function and activities of the volunteer program. The coordinator works under the supervision of the Area Coordinator and State Master Gardener Coordinator. This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to manage volunteers.
• Ability to inspire and develop leadership in individuals and committees.
• Ability to build and maintain community partnerships.
• Experience in adult or non-formal education.
• Strong organizational and communications skills (both oral and written).
• PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
• Valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in horticulture, environmental science, or human sciences.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Penn State Extension Master Gardener program spokesperson for Centre County.
• Serve as the liaison between the county extension office, the state-level Master Gardener (MG) Program and the volunteers.
• Engage community members as appropriate to promote Extension, the Master Gardener Program and Penn State.
• Become familiar with information and resources listed in the Penn State Extension Master Gardener Coordinator's Manual. Provide the information to volunteers when applicable.
• Empower, organize, and lead MG volunteers to educate county residents about horticultural and environmental issues through community outreach projects.
• Identify opportunities and educational needs of consumers and stakeholders in the county.
• Oversee Master Gardener volunteer projects.
• Work to recruit, select, and train new Master Gardener volunteers.
• Oversee the county volunteer portal used for recording hours and continuing education.
• Provide volunteer recognition.
• Be responsible for evaluating and reporting Master Gardener outreach activities and impacts on a quarterly and annual basis.
• Assure that all volunteers comply with the Master Gardener Policy Statement and Penn State policies.
• Coordinate both general and committee meetings for volunteers.
• Organize continuing education opportunities for Master Gardener volunteers.
• Create a program budget for project income and expenses and fundraise where appropriate using education-based strategies.
• Use technology, mass media and personal contacts to promote MG public education programs and events.
• Contribute to select state-level projects aligned with the coordinator's interests and skill set.

Benefits

• health, dental, and vision insurance
• retirement
• generous paid leave (holiday, vacation, sick, and parental leave)
• reduced tuition for employees and their dependents at Penn State campuses
• a family-friendly environment
• comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• robust retirement plans
• substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree