Urban Agriculture Program Coordinator - Cortland, NY

Job Summary

The Urban Agriculture Program Coordinator will serve the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Cortland County by providing program coordination and support to 4‑H CYFAR and related programs. The coordinator will plan, implement, and evaluate youth‑centered urban agriculture, engaging young people in hands‑on learning related to sustainable agriculture, food systems, environmental stewardship, and leadership development.

Full‑time non‑exempt, 40 hours per week, 100% FTE.

Hourly rate: $30.05.

Benefits include health and dental insurance, retirement, vacation, sick and personal leave.

Visa sponsorship is not available.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Environmental Studies, Education, Youth Development, or related field, OR equivalent:
  Associate’s Degree plus 2 years transferable program/functional experience.
• 2 to 3 years of experience working with youth in educational, community, or agricultural settings.
• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation pesticide applicator certification (obtainable within the first year).
• Knowledge of urban agriculture, food systems, or environmental education.
• Experience facilitating groups and managing youth activities.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform light physical labor (up to 30‑40 lbs, occasional lifting).
• Valid NYS Driver’s License and ability to meet travel requirements.
• Flexibility to work evenings and/or weekends as needed.

• Knowledge of horticulture, including floriculture, ornamentals, turf, and vegetables.
• Knowledge of entomology and plant pathology.
• Knowledge of pesticides and integrated pest management.
• Ability to diagnose customers’ problems related to horticulture topics.
• Experience in community‑based or nonprofit programming.
• Knowledge of food justice and community food systems.
• Certification in first aid/CPR.
• Experience with grant reporting or data tracking.
• Bilingual skills.

Program responsibilities include delivering, evaluating, and applying research on urban agriculture; offering hands‑on learning experiences; supporting curriculum, teaching existing educational programs, fostering program acceptance, and serving as a subject‑matter resource. The coordinator will also collaborate with staff to achieve program goals, implement existing horticulture and natural resource educational programs, Master Gardener programs, and provide public information through impact statements, progress reports, and news releases.

Adaptation of curricula and materials will be performed under the Executive Director’s direction.

Administrative duties involve supervising youth participants, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, assisting with budgeting, fundraising, problem resolution, communication strategies, and event promotion. The coordinator will also handle record‑keeping, data management, and program reporting, as well as provide volunteer training and maintain program resources.

Other duties include professional development, performing additional tasks as assigned, and upholding health and safety standards to maintain a safe working environment, comply with regulations, prevent accidents, and communicate hazards.

The coordinator will manage the Urban Agriculture Program, coordinate 4‑H CYFAR, Blocks in Bloom Grant, Master Gardener, and horticulture programming across Cortland County. Responsibilities also include supervising student interns, managing volunteer Master Gardener programs, and providing marketing support.