Garden Educator (Temporary)-Herkimer, NY

Cornell Cooperative Extension•New York, NY

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Garden Educator leads engaging, hands-on gardening education sessions at participating Herkimer County schools, senior housing facilities, public libraries, community garden sites, and other supporting organizations and venues. The educator uses approved curricula coordinated by the program leader and helps participants of all ages and skill levels develop practical gardening skills they can use at home or in shared community spaces. The position also supports community garden improvements, prepares brief educational handouts or visual aids when appropriate, tracks attendance, and provides brief monthly activity summaries. This is a part-time temporary, on-site position based at the CCE Herkimer office. It runs from December 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, for 14 hours per week, at $17 per hour. Business travel is reimbursed at the current IRS rate.

Requirements

Experience in gardening education, horticulture, agriculture, environmental education, or a related field, with the ability to teach gardening concepts in an accessible, engaging, hands-on way.
Comfort working with diverse community members, families, youth, and people with varying levels of gardening experience.
Strong communication and organizational skills.
Willingness to work outdoors during the growing season.
Ability to lift and transport basic materials and tools.
Ability to meet the travel requirements associated with the position.
Ability to meet acceptable background check standards.
Ability to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.
Applicants must submit a complete résumé, a cover letter, and three professional references.

Responsibilities

Use approved curricula to deliver lessons as coordinated by the program leader.
Deliver hands-on gardening education sessions at seasonally scheduled community garden sites and other appropriate venues.
Teach foundational gardening topics and demonstrate simple, practical gardening activities for participants of all ages and skill levels.
Support community garden improvements.
Prepare brief educational handouts or visual aids when appropriate.
Track attendance and provide brief monthly summaries of activities.
Travel as required for the position.