Join Our Team
We are an environmental educational organization on the Potomac River, we’re excited to connecting people from all walks of life to the natural world through education, stewardship and advocacy.

Our Statement of Values
We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work and at all levels of staff and governance.
We honor the beliefs, attitudes, languages, interpersonal styles, and values of all individuals.
We are dedicated to enhancing opportunities for people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to collectively accomplish the mission of the Alice Ferguson Foundation.
Tell us your story
Check out our open positions below and see if our team is a good fit for you.
Please send all inquiries to apply@fergusonfoundation.org
Current Job Opportunities
We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
Operations Manager
FULL TIME OR PART TIME: Full Time, Exempt Position
REGULAR or TEMPORARY: Regular
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
LEVEL: Manager
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
The Manager is a key member of the Alice Ferguson Foundation (AFF) staff overseeing farm operation and facilities of a 330-acre property with historic and state-of-the art buildings. The Manager is responsible for the overall facilities and maintenance of the property and farm leading the facilities and the farm staff. The Manager reports to the Executive Director and works closely with the educational, administrative and development staff to ensure safe and successful program and event delivery.
III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary Role(s):
- Partner with the Executive Director on operational issues as they arise; provide strategic recommendations.
- Direct the organization’s facilities and farm full and part-time staff to ensure a safe physical environment; complying with all state and county regulations.
- Ensure the facility is fully operational with all utilities functioning properly. Conduct and document annual facility audits.
- Oversee capital construction projects working with contractors and adhering to state fiscal guidelines.
- Maintain records of scheduled maintenance and ongoing communication with contractors, clients, community members and team. Schedule and supervise maintenance repair work and assist with checking installation and servicing building equipment.
- Maintain records of daily, short and long term facility and farm maintenance and goals; ensuring regular maintenance of property complying with Foundation’s Land Use policy.
- Oversee the organization’s physical infrastructure, system and IT maintenance and outside vendor relationships.
- Manage department and project budgets. Maintain and update standard operating policies and procedure manuals as needed.
- Ensure the standard operation and compliance for including health, food and safety protocols complying with state and county health department and public school regulations.
- Ensure facility rentals, events and other off-site vendors appropriately maintain site and follow policy and guidelines.
- Manage event inquiries and liaisons with community partners, clients, local and regional leaders, including the National Park Service, on event preparation and execution.
- Work with Executive Director, development and program teams on events: plans, prepares and oversees onsite event logistics.
- Oversee security of building and grounds.
- Maintain stock levels and oversee purchasing.
- Provide ongoing feedback and professional development opportunities for farm and facilities staff.
- Support grant applications for facility maintenance and seek opportunities for future projects, as needed.
- Other duties as assigned.
IV. SCOPE OF WORK
This is an onsite position. Work takes place at Hard Bargain Farm in Accokeek, MD. Work will be conducted both indoors and outdoors depending on the task. Must be physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and operate basic farm equipment.
V. FUNCTIONS
- Attend staff meetings, Board meetings and annual membership meeting.
- Participate in special events: festivals, Pinot on the Potomac, annual Potomac cleanup, members’ events and other Foundation-sponsored events as needed.
- Participate in staff development, including staff meetings and trainings.
VI. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
- Bachelor’s degree in related field, or equivalent professional level experience.
- 3-5 years of experience in facilities maintenance or equivalent related functions.
- Must be a working manager, capable of operating in a fast-paced environment, able to handle pressure well, be self-motivated and a problem solver.
- Ability to carry out assigned tasks timely and efficiently.
- Have a customer service attitude and be detail-oriented.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
- Knowledge of general maintenance methods, operating requirements, and safety precautions related to facilities management.
- Strong procurement and negotiation skills.
- Model behavior that is consistent with Foundation standards of conduct.
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.
Development Coordinator
FULL TIME OR PART TIME: Full Time, Hybrid
PERMANANT or TEMPORARY: Permanent
REPORTS TO: Development Director
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.
The Development Coordinator carries out development strategies including outreach, solicitation, cultivation, networking, follow up and stewardship of potential and existing corporate sponsors (40%), donor cultivation through solicitation campaigns and fundraising events (40%), and support for the other activities of the development team (20%).
III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary Role(s):
- Support all development programs, including membership, individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and strategic partnership.
- Assist with the development and execution of a comprehensive annual work plan including prospecting, cultivation, solicitations (telephone, mail and email), and stewardship.
- In partnership with AFF Executive Director and Development Director, cultivate corporate relationships through in-person meetings, facility tours, and general communication activities.
- Maintain accurate prospect, donor, funder, and contact records in the database.
- Develop peer and industry relationships that result in consistent brand penetration and new development opportunities.
- Assist in data reporting and analysis for development activities.
- Collaborate with colleagues on events, including, but not limited to rentals, the annual fundraiser, member meeting, and holiday party.
- Work alongside Communications and Grants teams to support efforts as needed.
- Provide support to the Development Director.
Secondary Role(s):
- Represent AFF at public outreach events.
- Contribute to social media content creation.
IV. SCOPE OF WORK
This position is largely sedentary in nature, however one must possess the ability to speak, hear, and write as well as the ability to use a computer and related software programs and lift up to 25 lbs. Travel in the local area will be required as is a car.
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.
- 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. SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
- Attention to detail, highly organized.
- Proven ability to work independently to manage and meet deadlines.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication.
- Effective interpersonal skills.
- Strong analytical thinking ability.
- Flexible, collaborative approach.
- High level of computer proficiency including Google Drive including Docs, and Sheets, as well as internet-based research.
- Experience with the Kindful database is a plus.
- Familiarity with social media outlets.
- Experience developing and implementing organization and tracking systems.
- Familiarity with basic graphic design principles and experience with Canva is a plus.
VII. KNOWLEDGE AND EDUCATION REQUIRED
- Bachelor’s degree
- Previous experience in development and/or fundraising preferred
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.
Environmental Outreach Coordinator
FULL TIME OR PART TIME: Full Time
REGULAR or TEMPORARY: Regular
REPORTS TO: Program 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
The Education Coordinator works with the Program Team to implement environmental education programs through the Alice Ferguson Foundation. This can include on-site programs, off-site and virtual programs for youth ranging from kindergarten through college. Some adult education classes could also be included. These programs focus on Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) that help youth understand habitats, watersheds, climate change, invasive species and other environmental topics. Coordinator will also assist in curriculum development. It is beneficial if the candidate is already well versed in these topics.
The Education Coordinator works along with the other members of the education team to organize, communicate and manage details of field trips, workshops, teacher training, education materials, curriculum etc. Coordinator assists with summer camp and children’s garden.
The Coordinator will be asked to assist in the writing and implementation of grants and maintaining proper records for reporting and financial accountability. The Coordinator will assist with maintaining and updating relevant sections of the website through WordPress.
The Coordinator will be the primary contact for the Potomac River Watershed Cleanup. This project entails promoting and marketing the program, training and communicating with site leaders, managing the website and providing education programs. Marketing, promotion, and social media campaigns skills are required. Coordinator responsible for planning and organizing several Cleanup events per year. Coordinator will maintain data gained from cleanups and communicate data and findings. The coordinator will seek ways to collaborate with other organizations involved in litter cleanup.
III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary Role(s):
- Responsible for marketing, promotion, and coordinator Potomac River Watershed Cleanup.
- Organize several cleanup events for AFF and corporate sponsors.
- Teach environmental education programs onsite, virtually, in schools and in national parks.
- Assist with the AFF website using WordPress.
- Create social media campaigns, promotion and marketing materials.
- Conduct environment and litter education through public presentations.
- Write and manage grants and grant reporting.
- Identify and ensure alignment of educational programming to academic standards.
- Implement consistent, need-driven evaluation tools across educational programming.
- Develop, write, and pilot new or revised curricula for AFF educational endeavors.
- Execute and/or support teacher professional development training summer institutes.
- Teach, support and lead summer camp programs either in person or virtually.
- Maintain inventory of equipment and supplies, keeping them organized and in good working order.
- Help with education program administrative needs.
- Represent AFF at meetings, networking and outreach events.
- Identify and recruit key stakeholder groups including elected officials, agency staff, houses of worship, businesses, schools, and youth groups in each community.
- Help with facilities needs as requested.
- Participate in special events: members’ events and other AFF-sponsored events as needed.
- Actively participate in staff development, including staff meetings and training.
- Maintains safety of visitors and animals.
- Assist supervisor, other teams/programs or Executive Director 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
- Attend staff meetings, Board meetings and annual memExhibit 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
- Relevant Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as environmental science, environmental science communication, education, communication, or solid waste management.
- Understand and teach ecological concepts, have basic environmental knowledge and familiarity with the Potomac River Watershed area.
- Demonstrated ability to create social media campaigns and other marketing and promotional materials.
- Demonstrated skill in teaching environmental programs, communication and public speaking.
- Demonstrated strong project management skills with ability to prioritize various responsibilities, with a focus on outcomes.
- Demonstrated collaborative and networking skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-based structure, with flexibility under shifting deadlines.
- Ability to use a variety of online tools and platforms including Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Schoology, Google Drive, WordPress etc.
- Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and through writing, and strong interpersonal skills.
- Bi-lingual Spanish fluency is a plus.
- CPR and First Aid Training or ability to get trained.
- Demonstrate and enforce safe handling techniques for farm animals is a plus.
- Knowledge of safe use of equipment such as a hay wagon and tractor is a plus.
- Access to a reliable vehicle and the ability to travel locally and/or regionally.
- Ability to work periodic nights and weekends.
- Follow AFF protocols and safety guidelines for COVID-19.
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.
Events and Office Coordinator
FULL TIME OR PART TIME: Full Time
REGULAR or TEMPORARY: Regular
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
LEVEL: Coordinator
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
The Office Coordinator supports the Executive Director and is responsible for supporting the administrative functions of the Alice Ferguson Foundation. The ideal candidate should be a highly-motivated, detailed oriented individual that possesses excellent communication skills, strong analytical abilities, time management skills, computer knowledge, and is able to work independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision. This is an onsite position for Tuesday’s and Friday’s. With appropriate notice, this position may require weekend and evening work beyond regular work week hours.
III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary Role(s):
Office Management
- Provide oversight on areas of AFF core documents, insurance, interface with vendors.
- In collaboration with the Facilities Manager work with an offsite IT provider to maintain an inventory of equipment and purchase/renew/cycle out as needed.
- Respond to phone and email inquiries, directing inquiries to appropriate staff members.
- Represent the organization to callers and visitors.
- Maintain office space, including ordering and inventory tracking.
- Open and process office mail and monitor public-facing inbox.
- Maintain AFF calendar and update as necessary.
- Collect and sort paper mail.
Events
- Work with the Development team on intake details for event requests.
- Support Development team on event coordination.
Human Resources
- Work with the leadership team to manage employee files and background check requirements.
- Work with the leadership team to coordinate with local contact to provide CPR training to staff. Ensure staff maintain certification on a 2-year cycle. Maintain these records.
- Maintain Employee Handbook and update as requested by the Executive Director.
- Maintain Employee Files.
- Maintain AFF Intranet.
Board
- Maintain BoardNetwork platform.
- With the Executive Director, support the onboarding and offboarding of Board members.
- Support in the set up and organization of 4 Board meetings annually.
- Work with the development team on an annual Member Meeting.
- Communicate with Board Members as requested from the Executive Director.
Participate in staff development, including staff meetings, trainings and other duties as assigned.
IV. SCOPE OF WORK
In this position, one must possess the ability to speak, hear, and write as well as the ability to use a computer and related software programs and lift up to 25 lbs. Travel in the local area will be required, as is a car. This position will require weekend and evening work beyond regular work week hours.
V. FUNCTIONS
- Exhibit teamwork and cooperation by sharing knowledge, coordinating duties with other staff, and demonstrating the willingness to assist others as needed.
- Treat staff members, volunteers, community members, corporate partners, and visitors with courtesy and respect.
- Exhibit leadership by taking initiative, mentoring, and problem-solving.
- Maintain confidentiality of privileged and sensitive information.
- Promote and support the values and mission of the Alice Ferguson Foundation in conduct.
VI. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
- A bachelor’s degree is required.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong analytical, problem solving, verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work and interact well with individuals (staff and volunteers) from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds in a culturally diverse environment.
- Professional demeanor and excellent interpersonal skills.
- Familiarity with Google Organization & Productivity Tools (Gmail, Google Docs, Calendar) and/or ability to learn new technology systems.
- Experience in managing multiple tasks and deadlines with a broad understanding of nonprofits.
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.
Environmental Educator | Part-Time
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.