Company description

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center is a nonprofit, certified organic farm located on over 50 acres of conserved land along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, Vermont. Our organization has a deep commitment to developing regenerative agriculture systems for our annual vegetable and flower production and to offering educational programming that builds connections between our food, ecosystems, and community.

Our farm is a community hub with a farmstand, retail greenhouses, a farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a cut flower garden, education programs, and unique CSA options. It's a place where folks can learn about and deepen their appreciation for organic regenerative agriculture.

Our staff is a reflection of our community and is the most essential aspect of our farm. When you join our dynamic team, you'll have the opportunity to make valuable contributions to our greater mission of promoting organic, regenerative farming and the transition to a localized food economy!

Job description

Full-Time, Year Round

The Summer Camp Director and Education Lead plays a key role in bringing Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center's mission to life through engaging, hands-on experiences. Working at the intersection of farming, ecology, and education, this position creates opportunities for learners of all ages to explore, get their hands dirty, and build meaningful connections to the land and their community.

The primary focus of this role is leading Cedar Circle's popular summer day camp, overseeing everything from staff recruitment and training to curriculum, daily operations, camper experience, and safety. Throughout the rest of the year, the Education Lead develops and facilitates a diverse range of farm-based programs. The position combines hands-on teaching and program development with the administrative work needed to keep programs organized and running smoothly.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Serving as Camp Director:

• Manage camp logistics and administration throughout the year, including registrations, budget planning, and scheduling. Collaborate with the Education Manager to evaluate and improve camp offerings and plan for the next season's operations.
• Oversee the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of all camp staff. Manage staff schedules and absences, provide ongoing support, mentorship, and performance evaluations to foster a positive and effective team environment.
• Co-design and implement engaging and age-appropriate camp curricula.
• Ensure the Summer Camp program runs smoothly, with adaptations made as necessary to meet the needs of campers. Actively teach or lead camp programming as needed.
• Ensure the camp is in full compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations. Develop and enforce safety protocols, conduct regular staff training on emergency procedures, and address any health-related issues promptly and effectively.
• Co-manage the Mentor In Training (MIT) program with the Assistant Camp Director.

Serving as Education Lead:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for program participants. Keep caregivers informed about activities, special events, and their child's progress, if applicable.
• Develop and implement new and existing programs in conjunction with the Education Team. Co-create and deliver seasonal program curriculum, including lesson plans and educational materials for programs.
• Maintain the Education Garden throughout the season.
• Provide a positive experience for all education program participants and, if applicable, their caregivers.
• Collaborate with other departments at Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center to lead or coordinate education programs.
• Coordinate and lead educational activities for Cedar Circle's annual Pumpkin Festival community event.
• Build relationships with local communities to enhance program visibility and support. Represent Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center at recruitment events, camp fairs, etc.
• Availability to work overtime during the summer season, and occasional weekends or evenings for special programs and events.
• Communicate with the Outreach & Engagement Coordinator to market and promote education programs.
• Other related assignments as necessary.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• 2+ years of experience as an educator, in a classroom or outdoor setting.
• Additional experience in a related field, or combination of work experience and coursework.
• Experience developing curriculum and teaching about farming, ecology, or related subjects preferred.
• Experience working with learners of diverse ages and backgrounds, from preschool through adults.
• Demonstrated ability to create inclusive, welcoming learning environments for diverse learners.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage responsibilities proactively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in professional and educational settings.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Farm or garden experience preferred.
• Comfort working outdoors in a range of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Comfort with routine computer and administrative tasks.
  

COMPENSATION

The Summer Camp Director and Education Lead is a full time, year-round position. Benefits include: health insurance (premium 100% employer paid, 50% paid for minor dependents); paid personal, sick, and parental leave; a 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer safe harbor match; short-term disability insurance (100% employer paid), 20% discount at our farmstand; 50% off summer camps for dependents; and access to an employee assistance program. Pay is $20-23 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $20/hr +

Application instructions

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Deadline

no deadline