Campus/Location:

Penn State Extension

Date Announced:

07/03/2019

Date Closing:

open until filled

Job Number:

88931

Work Unit:

College of Agricultural Sciences

Department:

Penn State Extension - Elk County

Full/Part Time:

Part–Time

DESCRIPTION

This individual will coordinate the Master Gardener Program in Elk County and will work closely with the Master Gardeners to provide education on sustainable horticulture practices to the residents of the county. This position is administratively responsible to the Area Master Gardener Coordinator and the Statewide Master Gardener Coordinator. As Master Gardener (MG) Coordinator, will direct and coordinate the operations of the MG volunteer program in Elk County and work with the Area MG Coordinator to maintain a strong program in the county. Also coordinate with other county MG Coordinators as appropriate. Serve as the MG spokesperson. Serve as the liaison between the County Extension offices, the state-level MG Program and the volunteers. With the assistance of the MG volunteers, provide community outreach to educate consumers about horticultural and environmental issues in the county. Work with Master Volunteer Committees to: initiate, staff, manage, evaluate, and prepare program impact reports; recruit, select, and train new volunteers; assure volunteers’ compliance with Penn State policies; oversee volunteer projects; identify and promote volunteer professional development opportunities; manage business/program development meetings for volunteers; manage volunteer fiscal matters. Engage community members as appropriate to promote Extension, the Master Gardener Program and Penn State. Develop revenue enhancement strategies to obtain additional resources for the Master Gardener Program. Identify opportunities and educational needs of consumers and stakeholders and strengthen or extend the program by maintaining a working relationship with the county and other organizations as appropriate. Demonstrate competency in knowledge of computers and applicable software. Use technology, mass media and personal contacts in the delivery and management of high-quality extension educational programs. Ensure compliance with the affirmative action plan. Through public notification and “All Reasonable Efforts,” make all programs accessible to clientele without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Statewide Master Gardener Coordinator. Qualifications include college degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or similar field experiences, ability to manage volunteers, ability to inspire and develop leadership in individuals and committees, ability to build and maintain community partnerships, strong organizational and communications skills (both oral and written). Computer literacy including Microsoft Word, SharePoint, email and Web browsers, ability to lift up to 30 pounds with or without accommodation. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience managing volunteers, horticulture background, environmental science or related education, experience in adult or non-formal education, competency in Microsoft Outlook, PowerPoint and databases.