Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

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In alignment with the mission, programs and initiatives of MSU Extension, delivers research-based information to program participants through various methods and/or provides support and coordination of MSU Extension programs.

Unit Position Summary

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive organization, which requires all staff to contribute towards a vision for success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our work, regardless of title or position within the organization. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

• We work together to ensure that programming is delivered to diverse audiences, produces equitable impacts for all participants, and demonstrates partnership and inclusion for all groups.
• We embrace that it is everyone’s job to create a culture that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and inclusive culture.
• We foster inclusion by recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives, skills, experiences, and work to create equal access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning for diversity, equity, and cultural competency, in order to achieve inclusive excellence.
• We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential elements to our work and are vital to the organizational culture and programmatic success of MSU Extension.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching and feedback towards achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
• Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities and businesses.

Tollgate Farm and Education Center provides a space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can connect with the land, develop a profound understanding of agriculture and the environment, and nurture a greater sense of responsibility for the world around us. Throughout the year, MSU Tollgate Farm offers educational programs that include experiential, educational programs for all ages, individually and from community groups and schools. We are seeking staff with a background in one or more of the following activities: education, agricultural science, sustainability, and science & nature knowledge.

GENERAL STATEMENT OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM LEADER DUTIES:

This is a part-time, on-call position with duties primarily during seasonal program months of spring, summer, and fall with a target of an average of 19 hours per week during those seasons. This position assists with onsite programs, off-site programs, and select large community events, and involves training to facilitate inquiry-based experiential learning for various audiences.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

The list below is intended to describe the general nature of duties only. Employees shall perform other duties as assigned.

• Promote public interest and participation in farm-based interpretive programs using inquiry learning methods
• Assist in developing interactive programs promoting Tollgate Farm
• Prepare supplies, set up, and clean-up program areas for school field trips under the direction of the Program Coordinator
• Assist with interpretive activities and office support
• Assist with community events
• Willingness to work occasional evening and weekend programs and events

The list above is intended to describe the general nature of duties only.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle and care for livestock, manage and operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach and lift with hands and arms. The employee is required to drive a tractor and utility vehicles (training provided). The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Employee generally performs work in an outdoor environment where weather conditions include heat, rain, and snow. The employee will be required to work in an indoor environment and with large groups.

SELECTION GUIDELINES:

Selection process may include, but is not limited to, any or all of the following: formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interviews, and reference check.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.   The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employee and Tollgate Farm and Education Center and is subject to change by Tollgate based on the needs and requirements of the organization.   

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent of 3 years of experience in a teaching capacity
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to demonstrate the ability to perform the job may be substituted for the degree requirement
• Progressively responsible experience in interpretation, education or a related field
• Nature interpretation, environmental education, biology or natural resources background
• Ability to promote and maintain cooperative working relationships with educational groups, site visitors, and other employees
• Ability to communicate verbally to give tours, lead programs, and provide presentations
• Will be required to work assigned special events, weekends, evenings and holidays
• Will be required to adjust schedule to meet organizational needs
• Ability and willingness to work with livestock
• Ability to work well under the direction of supervisor
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgement, act with discretion
• Ability to solve problems as they arise in a program setting
• Ability to perform essential duties

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

ON-CALL