Boulder Knoll Community Farm (BKCF) is a small-scale, environmentally sustainable farm in Cheshire, CT that provides healthy, local vegetables and fruit to 80 shareholders, CT Food Bank, local soup kitchens and a New Haven restaurant. Education is a central component and an essential element in the vision of the Friends of Boulder Knoll (FOBK), the farm’s sponsoring organization. Our goal is to emphasize essential links between people, plants, and the earth, to develop interdisciplinary learning, and to promote environmental responsibility.
The Environmental Educator (EE) will be an energetic, well-organized environmentalist with experience in farming and education who will provide a variety of educational opportunities, at the farm and off-site when appropriate. The EE will support the mission of the farm by working with CSA members, volunteers, and the public to enhance educational opportunities at all levels.
Responsibilities:
* Design, publicize and implement a variety of educational programs for children, youth and adults as either the presenter or facilitator. Lessons may cover topics such as sustainable agriculture, food preparation, and wildlife habitat.
* Conduct outreach to the community beyond BKCF CSA members. Manage existing relationships and expand educational opportunities to more groups. The EE will manage educational programs both on- and off-farm to reach the greatest population.
* Create and maintain an interactive educational space, as well as prepare and purchase needed educational materials (budget provided).
- Provide educational opportunities at farm functions, including fundraisers and special events, and at weekly share-outs.
- Work with FOBK board to publicize upcoming educational opportunities via email, social media, and traditional media channels.
The EE will be responsible to and will communicate periodically with the FOBK board regarding activities and success of the programs and will submit a written annual report on the educational program. The farmer must approve the timing and content of workshops.
Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position will be able to demonstrate experience and basic theoretical knowledge in organic and sustainable farming. This is a position for someone seriously interested in sustainable farming, food, and community education. We offer the candidate the opportunity to be integrally involved in a small organic farming operation and in farm-based education.
Specific skills include, but are not mandated:
- Excellent work ethic and communication skills with a demonstrated ability to get along with and communicate with all ages and abilities;
- Background in Environmental Science, Agriculture, Education or related field;
- Willingness to teach and learn sustainable growing techniques;
- Familiarity with farming and farm-based education;
- Demonstrated experience in working in formal and/or informal education programs including working with people with special needs;
- Experience educating in an outdoor setting;
- Ability to prepare and distribute visually appealing publicity for educational programs;
- Ability to think strategically and creatively to enhance FOBK and BKCF while following the leadership of the farmer;
- First aid /CPR certified or willingness to obtain the training;
- Well organized, flexible, with an ability to take initiative and adapt to new situations.
Hours and Compensation:
In general the EE is expected to work an average of 10 -12 hours/week. Seasonal, 40 weeks, March through November. Some work is required on evenings and weekends, depending on timing of educational programs and distribution. Attendance at occasional FOBK board meetings will be expected with prior notice.
The EE will work for the Friends of Boulder Knoll as an independent contractor. The position offers no benefits, and no taxes will be withheld. Compensation of $6,000-8,000 depending on experience, hours worked and documented. The position requires a full season commitment.
Send any questions and inquiries to (info@friendsofboulderknoll.com).