Master Gardener Program Assistant

University of New Hampshire

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The UNH Extension Master Gardener Volunteer program provides training and support to volunteers throughout New Hampshire who enjoy gardening, want to enhance their knowledge and then share it with the gardening public. Master Gardener Volunteers present programs, answer gardener’s questions through the Yard and Garden Infoline, and demonstrate best practices in a wide variety of public gardens. A pilot hybrid class was offered recently to meet the needs of people who are not able to attend the traditional in-person, mid-week classes. There is a great deal of demand for this training format. The Master Gardener Program Assistant will be responsible for updating and implementing the hybrid training, in collaboration with the Master Gardener Program Manager. This will involve scheduling remote and in-person sessions, including instructors and facilities. Experience with on-line learning platforms or propensity to learn is required. Basic knowledge and/or experience with home gardening is necessary. Responsibilities will include communication and support of volunteers and providing additional program assistance to the Program Manager. This position will have occasional night and weekend programmatic responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education or Biological Sciences with experience as an educator
Experience teaching/facilitating in an online environment
Experience with online learning platforms and facilitating online instruction
Experience working with and supporting volunteers
Some knowledge of gardening and horticultural practices
Strong organizational skills and detail oriented
Ability to work both collaboratively and independently with internal colleagues and external partners
Flexible and able to multitask
Availability to work some nights and occasional weekends
Reliable internet access for conducting evening and/or weekend on-line classes
Ability to work outdoors and conduct gardening tasks such as weeding and digging
Must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel for work

Nice To Haves

A sense of curiosity and desire to learn new things
Ability to adapt and be flexible

Responsibilities

Manage and implement the hybrid Master Gardener Volunteer core training
Collaborate with the Master Gardener Program Manager to ensure the hybrid curriculum meets overall program needs
Recruit, evaluate and select volunteers to participate in the hybrid class
Coordinate and facilitate online and in-person trainings, schedule presenters and facilities
Conduct pre, post and on-going evaluations of the class to inform program enhancements
Assist with enrollment, on-boarding and support of volunteers who complete the hybrid training to advance engagement of Master Gardener Volunteers
Recruit and support volunteers to fill and succeed in leadership roles
Assist with connections to Extension, UNH and community partners to enhance volunteer education and opportunities
Assist in communication with volunteers to improve the cohesion of the Master Gardener program statewide
Maintain records of volunteers who have completed the hybrid training
Schedule volunteers to participate in outreach opportunities such as “Ask a Master Gardener” booths at farmers markets, fairs, garden centers, etc.
Oversee the management of the Master Gardener Speakers Bureau program which currently delivers 100 presentations/year across the state
Adapt hybrid training based on recent program assessments and pilot program evaluations
Assist with development of continuing education opportunities that enhance volunteer skills and meet Extension and community goals
Review training materials and update for content and accessibility
Identify individual professional development goals in cooperation with supervisor
Seek training in subject area expertise and essential skills related to the position