Are you interested in joining a cohort of dedicated professionals, learning more about how we work, and supporting the mission of the Alice Ferguson Foundation? Or know someone who is? Alice Ferguson Foundation is holding an open call for board nominations through October.  Board terms are two years following the calendar year. 

HOW TO APPLY: Send nominations to tcullen@fergusonfoundation.org with the subject line BOARD NOMINATION

FULL TIME OR PART TIME: Part Time
REGULAR or TEMPORARY: Regular
REPORTS TO: Programs Manager
LEVEL: Associate

I. ORGANIZATION 

The Alice Ferguson Foundation is an environmental educational organization on the Potomac River, focused on connecting people to the natural world, sustainable agricultural practices and the cultural heritage of their local watershed through education, stewardship and advocacy. Across our programs, we share the wonder and excitement of our farm campus and the woodlands, wetlands, and waterways of the Potomac River watershed with thousands of students, teachers, and community members each year. 

II. POSITION

This hybrid role is responsible for  facilitating virtual and on-site field studies for  (K-12) students  to promote stewardship of natural resources  through Next Generation Science Standards lessons  that embrace the cultural heritage of the Potomac River watershed.

III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Primary Role(s):

• Teach students environmental education programs virtually and/or on-site using a variety of  technological tools and materials on-site. 
• Teach students environmental education programs using the natural and agricultural surroundings, either at the Hard Bargain Farm or in national parks through the Bridging The Watershed Program. On-site or virtual delivery determined by local public school regulations and state guidelines.
• Maintain inventory of equipment and supplies, keeping them organized and in good working order.
• Perform data entry of education program surveys.
• Assist with education program administrative needs.
• Maintain safety of visitors and animals. 
• Follow AFF protocols and safety guidelines for COVID-19.

Secondary Role(s):

• Represent AFF at meetings, networking and outreach events.
• Assist with animal care, haying, and other farm maintenance chores.
• Help with  facility needs as requested.
• Participate in special events as needed including member and AFF-sponsored events.
• Participate in staff development, including staff meetings and trainings.
• Assist others as needed.

IV. SCOPE OF WORK

Work is highly physical and active, conducted mainly outdoors in all types of weather.  Must possess the ability to lift upwards of 50 lbs.

V. FUNCTIONS

• Exhibit teamwork and cooperation by sharing knowledge, coordinating duties with other staff, and demonstrating the willingness to assist others as needed.
• Exhibit leadership by taking initiative, mentoring and problem-solving.
• Dress appropriately, use time wisely and meet deadlines.
• Treat staff members, students, teachers, partners and visitors with courtesy and respect.
• Initiate and respond positively to suggestions for improving service.
• Maintain AFF facilities and educational equipment, including inventories and equipment stored offsite in parks or elsewhere.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing, including field study reports, data collection, newsletter articles, website and other documents. Assist in documenting AFF activities via digital images and video.
• Maintain confidentiality of privileged and sensitive information.
• Promote and support the values and mission of AFF in all outreach and visitor contact.

VI. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• College degree or equivalent, and at least one full year of teaching experience. Bi-lingual Spanish  is a plus.
• Ability to use a variety of online tools and platforms including Zoom, Google Meets, Microsoft Teams, Schoology, Google Drive, etc.
• Ability to create online visuals using a variety of tools including Padlet, Prezi, PPT, Google Slides, video. 
• Requires the ability to speak, hear, see and exhibit physical ability to hike on uneven terrain for up to three hours, and lift objects up to 50 lbs. 
• Must be able to work outdoors  in all types of weather.
• Ability to travel locally and/or regionally.
• Understand and teach ecological concepts. 
• Exhibit knowledge of local flora and fauna.
• Impart to children and adults an appreciation of the natural environment and respect for all living things. 
• Demonstrate skill in handling groups of children and adults by engaging and keeping their interest while effectively managing group logistics. 
• Know and teach children and adult visitors the history of the Alice Ferguson Foundation and Hard Bargain Farm.
• Operate the tractor safely while pulling guests aboard the wagon.
• Anticipate safety concerns and respond as appropriate.
• Demonstrate and enforce safe handling techniques of all animals and plants. 
• Use all equipment safely and proficiently, including hay wagon and tractor.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Minorities / Female / Disabled / Veteran

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary. In addition, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

COVID CONSIDERATIONS: All staff are expected to be vaccinated.

HOW TO APPLY: Please submit cover letter and resume to apply@fergusonfoundation.org.