Penn State Extension in the College of Agricultural Sciences is hiring an Area Master Gardener Coordinator. This individual will serve as a member of the Master Gardener (MG) leadership team and will engage in strategic planning, decision-making, policy development, and problem solving.
The area coordinator will supervise the county MG coordinators in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata-Mifflin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill, and York Counties.
Specific duties include:
- Recruit, screen, and hire county coordinators when vacancies occur. Once hired, on-board, orient, and mentor the county coordinator. Provide day-to-day management of the county coordinator.
- Collaborate on management of budgets and finances for counties within the area. Work closely with county coordinators, BOMs, CRMs, and State Coordinator to manage local funds such that programs are consistent with statewide priorities. Review financial reports as needed and provide guidance to county coordinators on financial decisions. Identify opportunities to generate new funding through expanded local appropriations, grant opportunities, program fees, etc.
- Establish and implement program plans for the region, in conjunction with the county coordinators, that are consistent with statewide initiatives. Work with the team of Area Coordinators and the State Coordinator to develop and direct innovation-related strategies and projects statewide including significant new program opportunities involving technology, cross-unit collaborations, or major new initiatives. Work collaboratively to develop and manage educational programs and projects for both the state and regional area, including regional in-services and professional development for coordinators.
- Participate in a statewide Program Development Process (PDP) for the Master Gardener program. Provide support and training, as needed, to ensure that county coordinators have the skills and understanding needed for successful local program implementation.
- Ensure that the Penn State Master Gardener Program is in full compliance with legal and regulatory standards and policies. Maintain an understanding of current relevant policies and laws. Through regular communications (in-person, online, email, etc.), provide updates to county coordinators on pertinent changes. Evaluate the need for new policies or practices. Work with Area Coordinators and Statewide Coordinator to evaluate, recommend, implement, and administer policies and procedures to guarantee compliance. Provide support for county coordinators on issues related to program implementation including risk management, volunteer management, policy implementation, etc.
- Develop and guide strategic relationships and partnerships with internal and external entities; develop relationships with the National Extension Master Gardener organization and/or other Extension organizations, if appropriate.
- 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 State Master Gardener Coordinator.
This is an HR105, 100% FTE appointment. Position comes with an outstanding benefits package, including 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; and a family-friendly environment.
Education and Experience: Typical requirements for this position include a Bachelor’s degree, a degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or similar field is preferred, and 3 plus years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Required Qualifications: 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); and computer literacy including Microsoft Word, SharePoint, Zoom, Outlook email and web browsers. Preference will be given to candidates who have supervisory experience; background or education related to horticulture or environmental science; and experience in adult or non-formal education.
