Company description

McEnroe Organic Farm is a NOFA-NY LLC certified organic farm producing compost and soils, organic and naturally raised meats, greenhouse tomatoes, seasonal produce and nursery plants. Our soils and compost are approved for organic production, and since 1987 have been used by farmers, gardeners, and for landscaping projects and green roof installations. We are dedicated to educating our customers, their families, and the community, as well as our own employees, about the benefit of local organic food at a farm that integrates high-quality production with wildlife protection. With a year-round market and education programs for visitors, we farm over 1,000 acres in Millerton, NY, in Northern Dutchess county.

Job description

About the Education Program:

The goal of our public education program is to teach eco-literacy, to instill an appreciation for nature, and to inspire critical thinking towards the complex issues of agricultural systems and the role of the consumer. Our children’s programs center on basic life and earth sciences, visual art, and sensory experiences in the garden. Programming for adults focuses on plant care, pest management, composting and the farm’s place in the urban-rural relationship. The McEnroe Discovery Education Garden and public programs welcome visitors to learn about various aspects of organic gardening and farming, and conservation efforts at McEnroe Organic Farm.

We work with schools, community organizations, the general public and aspiring farmers. Our school programs and field trips serve primary and secondary school students (grades 3-12), as well as adult learners (undergraduate and graduate). We partner with community organizations involved in nutrition education, urban agriculture and culinary arts. Through both school programs and public events, we offer experiential, hands-on learning opportunities. Also, our apprenticeship program provides training and experience in our diverse production strategies to assist new farmers as they begin their careers.

About the Position:

McEnroe Organic Farm is seeking a full-time Education Program Manager to build our education program, and help realize its full potential. The Manager will oversee and play a hands-on role in existing educational initiatives, including: Programs for visiting school groups; an annual farm apprentice program; environmental education workshops for children and youth; farm tours; and events for the general public. The Manager will supervise staff, including an Education Program Apprentice who assists with the program. The work schedule varies seasonally - extra and weekend hours will be required in Spring, Summer and Autumn.

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• The position will require a self-starter who is motivated and organized.

• A minimum of three years experience in educational program development/management.

• A keen interest in environmental issues, organic farming practices, and education.

• Must possesses excellent writing and communication skills.

• Experience in planning and managing events and workshops.

• Use of social media for program promotion; strong computer skills including Microsoft Office.

• Outgoing, enthusiastic, and comfortable speaking in public.

• Flexible, creative, and able to work independently and as part of a team.

• Driver’s license and background check required.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with students and teachers is highly desired.

• Experience vegetable gardening, garden design or farming on the hand-scale is strongly preferred.

• Experience working with livestock a plus.

• Some grant writing/reporting experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement workshops, community events, and educational programs.

• Develop and manage Education program budget.

• Build relationships with community partners, researchers, and other organizations.

• Oversee design & implementation of McEnroe Discovery Garden.

• Coordinate the McEnroe Organic Farm Apprentice program, including recruitment.

• Help coordinate fundraising events in support of education programming.

• Represent McEnroe Organic Farm at events, conferences, markets and workshops.

• Contribute program content for web site and social media.

• Coordinate Education programming with all areas of farm operation.

• Develop new activities and expand the environmental curriculum.

• Hire and train Education staff.

• Document programs to provide material for media and grants.

• Travel required on occasion from farm to New York City and locations in the Hudson Valley.

• Develop income-generating activities, where appropriate.

• Contribute to and write materials, which may include proposals, reports, and marketing pieces.

• Recruit and manage volunteer involvement in education projects.

• Report to the Executive Director and work closely with farm staff.

Salary: $40-45,000. The position includes paid vacation.

If necessary, housing may be arranged.

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline