CCE OF SARATOGA COUNTY COMMUNITY HORTICULTURE & GENERAL AGRICULTURE MANAGER – BALLSTON SPA, NY - CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION : Job Details

The Community Horticulture & General Agriculture Resource Manager responds to general agriculture/commodity inquiries and manages a community-based horticulture program staffed by 80+ Master Gardner Volunteers (MGV) who provide extensive outreach, informal education, events, and diagnostic activities for the public. The Manager oversees MGV training programs, continuing education, and public gardening efforts. The position serves as a subject matter expert and directly supervises a staff educator as well as seasonal (temporary) staff and interns.

The Manager collaborates with local officials, partner organizations, funders, and Cornell University program work teams to manage, assess, develop, deliver, and evaluate both existing and new programs.

The position solicits grants, manages funder requirements, serves on advisory boards, and works independently and with limited supervision influencing programs for CCE Saratoga and its constituents. This position also works as part of a team assisting each other with programs, events, and other initiatives as needed.

Application Instructions

In the My Information section be sure to enter your full name, address, email, and phone number(s).

Include a cover letter, resume and at least three references (at least one who is a current or former supervisor or teacher). To attach documents, under the My Experience section use the Select Files button to search for files or use the Drop Files Here box to drag documents into your application. If you plan to upload more than one document, click the Upload icon for each additional document. Please note, once your application is submitted you will not be able to change your submission or add attachments. If you would like to add or update documents to your online application after submission, please contact Jim McNaughton, Association Lead Human Resources Manager, via e-mail [email protected].

External Applicants: (including current employees of other Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations) please refer to Applying for a Job with Cornell Cooperative Extension (External Candidate) ( for additional guidance.

All Internal Applicants: Those who are currently employed by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association indicated in this job posting must apply online via their employee Workday account, which may be accessed here:

Apply By

All applications must be received online by 11:59 pm on November 1, 2024. Position closing dates may change based on Association needs.

Required Qualifications

+ Masters degree.

+ Experience relevant to the role of position.

+ Ability to help ensure diverse, equitable, and inclusive programs.

+ Ability to meet the frequent travel requirements associated with this position. A valid NYS driver's license with the ability to drive and driving record acceptable for agency insurance coverage are required.

+ Ability to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.

+ Ability to manage, assess, develop, deliver, and evaluate programs.

+ Ability to manage budgets and secure funding and grants.

+ Ability to communicate effectively with various audiences.

+ Proficiency with or ability to learn Microsoft Office suite and program-based software.

+ Work Environment In addition to the Working Conditions; the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. This position works in a typical office environment. In addition, the position frequently lifts, moves, or transports program related materials, and equipment. The position frequently works in outdoor weather conditions including extreme heat, precipitation and cold especially during growing and fair seasons. This position regularly performs or demonstrates gardening and horticulture techniques during the gardening season.

Preferred Qualifications

+ Degree or coursework in agriculture, horticulture, plant pathology, entomology, or related fields.

+ Knowledge or experience with horticulture (vegetables, annuals, perennials and woody ornamentals), plant science, landscape design, invasive species, Integrated Pest Management, and ticks, Lyme disease, and other tick-borne diseases.

+ Supervisory experience.

Position Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Program Responsibilities:

Program Assessment 15%

+ Apply subject matter knowledge to identify gaps and trends in the community.

+ Assess the program, analyze needs, and make recommendations for improvements.

+ Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University for program assessment guidance.

+ Ensure program assessment is within scope of the statewide Plan of Work.

Program Development 15%

+ Develop programs and program materials to meet the need of diverse program participants.

+ Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University for program development guidance.

+ Ensure program development is within scope of the statewide Plan of Work.

Program Delivery 30%

+ Create lesson plans and deliver programs on topics related to community horticulture and agriculture.

+ Serve as a subject matter expert; provide responses, field questions, etc. Connect people, producers, and growers to regional or state-wide experts as needed.

+ Participate in public events and outreach including but not limited to Saratoga County Fair, farmers markets, community fairs, school events, etc.

+ Serve on advisory boards, committees, program work teams, etc.

+ Represent CCE as a subject matter expert before the public, community leaders, government officials, Cornell or other land grant universities as part of program delivery.

+ Foster acceptance of program, methods, and policies to address community and individual needs and consider diverse audiences.

+ Interact with program participants.

+ Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and other faculty and program units for program delivery guidance.

+ Evaluate and utilize a variety of proven educational methodologies.

+ Ensure program delivery is within scope of the statewide Plan of Work.

Program Evaluation 10%

+ Apply subject matter knowledge to evaluate educational programs.

+ Make recommendations for improvements.

Administrative Responsibilities:

Direction 10%

+ Plan assigned programs, budgets, and communication strategies.

+ Research and apply for grants and contracts for sustained funding.

+ Develop, expand, and enhance relationships for the program.

Management 10%

+ Manage assigned programs, budgets, communication strategies, volunteers, and interns.

+ Assures adequate phone coverage for MG volunteer hotline.

+ Lead and facilitate Master Gardener Volunteer staff meetings.

+ Oversee fundraising efforts.

+ Ensure grant and funder requirements are met.

+ Monitor program to ensure that educational content conforms to research base, policies and objectives of the association and is research knowledge based.

+ Solve problems and resolve conflicts that arise in the program.

Coordination/Operation 5%

+ Coordinate and schedule assigned programs and events.

+ Recruit program participants.

+ Perform communications and marketing responsibilities draft communications, impact statements, take photos, etc.

+ Maintain program records and data.

+ Complete and submit all required data, reports, records, and documentation in a timely manner.

Professional Improvement 5%

+ In cooperation with Supervisor and/or Executive Director, jointly develop and pursue a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes and Association priorities.

+ Collaborate in activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension and perform other duties as assigned.

Health and Safety Applied to all duties and functions

+ Support the Association to maintain a safe working environment.

+ Be familiar with and strive to follow any applicable federal, state, local regulations, Association health and safety policy/procedure/requirement and standard.

+ Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors when identified.

EEO/EPO and Policy Applied to all duties and functions

+ Appreciate and embrace diversity in all interactions with clientele, staff, volunteers and the public.

+ Assist the Cornell Cooperative Extension system in reaching out to diverse audiences.

+ Aware of, and adheres to, established Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Saratoga County policies, procedures and Cornell Cooperative Extension Skills for Success.

+ Contribute to the overall success of the organization by performing all assigned duties in a professional, timely and accurate manner.

Position Details

This is a full-time, exempt position. Compensation paid at the rate of $60,000 annually. Excellent benefits, based on eligibility, including:

+ Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal leave

+ Paid Holidays

+ NYS Health Insurance Program (including free Dental Insurance)

+ NYS Retirement (NYSERS)

+ Long-Term Disability Insurance

+ Total Care Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

+ Tax Deferred Annuity Plan

+ Flexible Spending Accounts

+ Group Universal Life Insurance

+ Personal Accidental Insurance

+ Legal Plan Insurance

+ Long Term Care Insurance

+ Auto and Homeowners Insurance

+ Pet Insurance

+ New Yorks College Savings Program

+ ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions

No relocation or VISA Sponsorship available.

For additional questions please contact Jim McNaughton, Association Lead Human Resources Manager, e-mail [email protected] or phone (518) ###-####.

Job Title:

Association Resource Educator

Level:

002

Pay Rate Type:

Salary

Company:

Contract College

Contact Name:

Jim McNaughton

Cornell Cooperative Extension is a collaboration among Cornell University, the United States Department of Agriculture, the State of New York, and the residents of New York State. Per NYS Law, county and regional extension service associations are subordinate government agencies. This employment opportunity is with the entities listed and not with Cornell University.

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Notice to Applicants: Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement ( . This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell Cooperative Extension as well as some of your rights and responsibilities as an applicant.