Extension Educator​/Master Gardener Coordinator

Position specifics

Penn State Extension is seeking an Extension Educator/Master Gardener Coordinator in Centre County to oversee the general function and activities of the volunteer program. The coordinator reports to the Area Coordinator and State Master Gardener Coordinator.

• Serve as the Penn State Extension Master Gardener program spokesperson for Centre County.
• Serve as the liaison between the county extension office, the state‑level Master Gardener (MG) Program and the volunteers.
• Engage community members as appropriate to promote Extension, the Master Gardener Program and Penn State.
• Become familiar with information and resources listed in the Penn State Extension Master Gardener Coordinator's Manual and provide the information to volunteers when applicable.
• Empower, organize, and lead MG volunteers to educate county residents about horticultural and environmental issues through community outreach projects.
• Identify opportunities and educational needs of consumers and stakeholders in the county.
• Oversee Master Gardener volunteer projects.
• Recruit, select, and train new Master Gardener volunteers.
• Oversee the county volunteer portal used for recording hours and continuing education; provide volunteer recognition.
• Evaluate and report Master Gardener outreach activities and impacts on a quarterly and annual basis.
• Ensure all volunteers comply with the Master Gardener Policy Statement and Penn State policies.
• Coordinate general and committee meetings for volunteers.
• Organize continuing education opportunities for Master Gardener volunteers.
• Create a program budget for project income and expenses and fundraise where appropriate using education‑based strategies.
• Use technology, mass media, and personal contacts to promote MG public education programs and events.
• Contribute to select state‑level projects aligned with the coordinator's interests and skill set.

• Demonstrated ability to manage volunteers.
• Ability to inspire and develop leadership in individuals and committees.
• Ability to build and maintain community partnerships.
• Experience in adult or non‑formal education.
• Strong organizational and communication skills (both oral and written).

• Bachelor's degree or higher in horticulture, environmental science, or human sciences.

• Minimum Education:
  
  Bachelor's Degree
• Prior relevant work experience:
  Not required
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

• PA State Police Criminal Background Check
• PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
• Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
• Operating a motor vehicle as part of job duties; a valid driver's license and vehicle records check required.

Salary range: $42,100 – $61,000. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; retirement; generous paid leave (holiday, vacation, sick, and parental leave); reduced tuition for employees and dependents at Penn State campuses; and a family‑friendly environment.

This position is funded for 1 year; continuation will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.