JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The College of Agricultural Sciences is seeking an individual to serve as a Water Resources Educator as well as coordinate both the York County Master Watershed Steward Program and Gypsy Moth Suppression Program. This individual’s time will be split 50% Natural Resources Educator, 40% MWS Coordinator, and 10% Gypsy Moth Coordinator.
It is expected that this individual will fulfill the responsibilities of all three roles. They will develop, direct, and coordinate the operations of the Master Watershed Steward (MWS) volunteer program in the county and work with the State Coordinator to maintain a strong program. This individual will serve as the spokesperson for the MWS program and be expected to engage community members as appropriate to promote Extension, the MWS Program, and The Pennsylvania State University. This individual will be required to work with Master Watershed Steward 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; and manage volunteer fiscal matters.
In addition, this individual will provide the expertise to compliment and support the efforts of the Extension Water Resources Team designed to improve drinking water safety and watershed management within the county and surrounding region. As a member of the Extension Water Resources Team, this individual will be required to use a variety of traditional and new technology-based delivery methods to develop workshops, seminars, demonstrations, online courses, and/or other educational strategies to communicate the latest resources to clients. This Educator will identify opportunities and educational needs in the county, provide non-formal educational opportunities and prepare educational materials that are relevant to and that enhance the educational process for targeted individuals and groups. This position will also include interpreting drinking water analysis reports for clients based on Environmental Protection Agency standards. Interpret drinking water analysis reports for clients based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Keep accurate records and submit impact data regularly to support the Extension Water Team.
As needed, this individual will also be responsible for managing the Gypsy Moth Suppression Program in York County. This will require coordinating property assessment programs and spraying notifications when necessary. Attendance at trainings and regular communication with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources statewide Gypsy Moth program will be required. Also provide education to landowners. Attend annual PA DCNR gypsy moth coordinator training. If an infestation occurs, will conduct field studies and monitor gypsy moth egg masses in the county in conjunction with DCNR staff. Will educate the public through face to face meetings and the news media to notify schools and residents included in spray blocks. Will keep records of the public requests for gypsy moth assessment, properties treated as well as notifications.
The individual must be able to work collaboratively with volunteers, other county coordinators and Extension programs, county office staff, and agency and organizational partners. With the assistance of the volunteer groups, this person will be responsible for providing community outreach to educate consumers about water resource issues in York County. This individual will need to identify opportunities and educational needs of consumers and stakeholders and strengthen or extend the programs by maintaining a working relationship with agencies and organizations including the local Conservation Districts, municipalities, DCNR, DEP, and other agencies and organizations as appropriate. It is expected that this individual will develop revenue enhancement strategies to obtain additional resources for the MWS program.
This individual must 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.
The candidate must be organized and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Bachelor’s degree and one year of related experience required. Preference will be given to candidates with a degree(s) in Environmental Science or similar field, with at least five years of experience in volunteer management, at least 1 year experience in pest management, the ability to manage staff and volunteers, ability to inspire and develop leadership in individuals, committees and supervisors, ability to build and maintain community partnerships, strong organizational and communications skills (both oral and written). Computer literacy including Microsoft Word, SharePoint, email and Web browsers, and ability to lift up to 30 pounds is required. They must possess a valid driver’s license, use of a private automobile, and the ability to travel across several counties. Since this position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as part of your job duties, successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
