4-H Environmental Science Program Coordinator and Camp Director

Cornell Cooperative Extension•New York, NY

16d•$64

About The Position

• Responsible for assisting with the planning, development and implementation and evaluation of the youth education efforts for environmental sciences at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center based in Yaphank. • Provide high-quality environmental science programming with a particular focus on agriculture, horticulture, plant and natural sciences, and sustainability. • Coordinate and provide educational programming for Independent Group Home Living (IGHL) residents that come to the Farm for vocational training in horticulture, plant science and greenhouse management. • Provide seasonal school break camps / school days off programs at the Suffolk County Farm. • Serve as Camp Director and supervise Summer Camp staff. Establish and maintain connections with NYS 4-H Camp system. Maintain the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center’s ACA accreditation status. • Coordinate and deliver programming associated with the Backyard Farm, Butterfly House and Greenhouses at the Suffolk County Fann. Maintain all facilities as needed on a year-round basis. • Provide general education programming and work special events, as needed, to support the efforts of the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center. • Serve as the Suffolk County Farm's liaison to the Community Horticulture Specialist and Master Gardeners who have projects on farm. • Work with CCE resource specialists, local organizations and partner agencies to educate youth and community groups on-site at the Fann, as well as in schools, libraries, youth organizations and community groups. • Assist with the training of volunteers and interns who are interested in working in the environmental sciences program area. • Lead and coordinate obtaining, housing, care, and educating staff about environmental animals used on programs such as but not limited too domestic rats, turtles, tarantulas, Madagascar hissing cockroaches, and axolotls.

Requirements

Master's Degree with experience relevant to the position. Bachelor's Degree plus 4 years transferrable relevant evidence-based research experience may substitute.
Proficiency with windows-based software including use of the internet and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Excel.
Proven in-depth knowledge in the field of environmental science education.
Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work effectively with advisory boards and committees, community and funding partners.
Ability to initiate, plan, organize, implement, teach, and evaluate informal educational programs.
Ability to effectively participate in professional team efforts.
Ability and willingness to work with diverse audiences and maintain cultural sensitivity.
Ability to communicate effectively through verbal, written and visual channels using traditional methods and educational tools, as well as electronic technology (e.g., video, audio, computers, etc.).
4 years of camp, teaching, or youth development experience.
Ability to work outside in all weather.
Ability to maintain and handle live farm animals for educational and demonstration purposes.
Ability to drive tractor. Initial training provided if necessary.
Ability to pass motor vehicle screen, including valid driver's license.
Ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.
Ability to meet acceptable background check standards.
Ability to work flexible hours which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Cooperative Extension or other similar educational organizations.
Experience working in and maintaining a greenhouse.
Experience working in and maintaining a Butterfly House.
Experience working with adults with developmental disabilities.
Experience with small animals needed for Environmental programs.
Experience with summer camp programs.

Responsibilities

Assist with planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of youth education efforts for environmental sciences.
Provide high-quality environmental science programming with a focus on agriculture, horticulture, plant and natural sciences, and sustainability.
Coordinate and provide educational programming for Independent Group Home Living (IGHL) residents.
Provide seasonal school break camps / school days off programs.
Serve as Camp Director and supervise Summer Camp staff.
Establish and maintain connections with NYS 4-H Camp system.
Maintain the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center’s ACA accreditation status.
Coordinate and deliver programming associated with the Backyard Farm, Butterfly House and Greenhouses.
Maintain all facilities as needed on a year-round basis.
Provide general education programming and work special events.
Serve as the Suffolk County Farm's liaison to the Community Horticulture Specialist and Master Gardeners.
Work with CCE resource specialists, local organizations and partner agencies to educate youth and community groups.
Assist with the training of volunteers and interns.
Lead and coordinate obtaining, housing, care, and educating staff about environmental animals used on programs.