Educational Program Leader​/Extension Program Worker

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

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.

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment, which requires all staff to contribute toward a vision for success regardless of title or position within the organization. We strive to create a positive culture, access to resources, and a sense of belonging for staff, partners, and programming participants. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

• We work together to ensure that programming is available to all audiences, creates meaningful and positive impacts for participants, and demonstrates partnership and collaboration across communities.
• We understand that a welcoming and respectful environment is built through the efforts of everyone.
• We foster an environment that welcomes a broad range of perspectives and experiences, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and supportive culture.
• We foster an environment that values a range of perspectives, skills, and experiences by working to ensure access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning and engagement to better serve Michigan residents and meet the evolving needs of communities.
• We recognize that broad accessibility and collaboration are essential elements of our work and are vital to organizational and programmatic success.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching, and feedback toward 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.

Position Summary:

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: K-12 formal education, agricultural science, outdoor education, summer camp, and/or environmental science.

This position’s key area of responsibility is to assist Farm staff with program support and delivery. This position will work up to 19 hours per week with a variable schedule. Weekend or evening hours may be required.

• Promote public interest and participation in farm-based interpretive programs.
• Assist in developing interactive programs promoting Tollgate Farm.
• Prepare supplies, set up, and clean-up program areas under the direction of the Program Coordinator and Program Manager.
• Facilitate educational programs that may include farm field trips, day camps, preschool programs, scout programs, birthday parties, and other programs.
• Assist with community events and other outreach programming.
• Assist with office support.
• Facilitate evening and weekend programs and events.

• 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…