This individual will coordinate the Master Gardener Program in Somerset County and will work closely with the Master Gardeners to provide education on sustainable horticulture practices to the residents of the county. This position is administratively responsible to the Area Master Gardener Coordinator and the State Master Gardener Coordinator. As Master Gardener (MG) Coordinator, the selected candidate will direct and coordinate the operations of the MG volunteer program in Somerset County and work with the Area MG Coordinator to maintain a strong program in the county. Also coordinate with other county MG Coordinators as appropriate.

Specific duties include:

• Serve as the Master Gardener spokesperson in Somerset County.  

• Serve as the liaison between the County Extension offices, the state-level MG Program and the volunteers.  

• With the assistance of the MG volunteers, provide community outreach to educate consumers about horticultural and environmental issues in the county.

• Work with Master Volunteer Committees to: initiate, staff, manage, evaluate, and prepare program impact reports; recruit, select, and train new volunteers; assure volunteers’ compliance with Penn State policies; oversee volunteer projects; identify and promote volunteer professional development opportunities; manage business/program development meetings for volunteers; manage volunteer fiscal matters.  

• Engage community members as appropriate to promote Extension, the Master Gardener Program and Penn State.  

• Develop revenue enhancement strategies to obtain additional resources for the Master Gardener Program.  

• Identify opportunities and educational needs of consumers and stakeholders and strengthen or extend the program by maintaining a working relationship with the county, and other organizations as 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 Area Master Gardener Coordinator and/or State Master Gardener Coordinator.

Required Qualifications: Degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or similar field (or equivalent experience); 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 experience managing volunteers; background or education related to horticulture or environmental science; and experience in adult or non-formal education.

Please include resume and cover letter with application.