Alice Ferguson Foundation

Job Opportunities

The Alice Ferguson Foundation is a preeminent environmental educational organization on the Potomac River focused on providing experiences that encourage connections between people, the natural environment, farming and the cultural heritage of the Potomac River Watershed, that lead to personal environmental responsibility. As a leader of watershed stewardship, it models innovative practices, outreach, partnerships, programs and events that are replicated nationally.


Bridging the Watershed Part-time/Seasonal Educator

 Students participating in BTW program POSITION SUMMARY: The BTW part-time, seasonal educator facilitates day-long, curriculum-based field studies to high schools students in an outdoor setting at national parks in Harpers Ferry and Frederick County, as well as Loudoun, Washington, Allegheny and Garrett counties. The position also includes contacting teachers, pre- and post-field study classroom visits, data recording and reporting. The BTW part-time, seasonal educator will be required to come to the Alice Ferguson Foundation’s Washington, DC-area office for training and occasional meetings. The position is ideal for retired teachers or parents returning to the work force.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Bridging the Watershed (BTW) is an outreach program of the Alice Ferguson Foundation in partnership with the National Capital Region of the National Park Service and area schools. BTW’s mission is to provide personally meaningful educational experiences that connect students to their place in the natural and cultural world. The uniqueness of learning through national parks in the Potomac River watershed inspires lifelong civic responsibility. Learn more about Bridging the Watershed.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

  1. Assists in planning and presenting field studies in national parks
  2. Provides pre-and/or post-field experiences in school classrooms
  3. Attends meetings at schools, parks, etc.
  4. Maintains program records (e.g., field study reports, updates)
  5. Communicates with BTW partners

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

  1. Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in science (i.e., environmental science, biology, natural resources) or education with major in science
  2. Experience working in the out-of-doors
  3. At least 3 years experience presenting education programs
  4. Exhibits understanding of inquiry-based science
  5. Experience working with adolescents
  6. Dynamic presentation skills
  7. Excellent communication skills
  8. Good computer skills (e.g., PC/Windows XP, Microsoft Word, Excel)
  9. Good organization and problem-solving skills
  10. Reliable, responsible, able to work independently and as part of a team, and able to problem solve creatively

ADDITONAL NOTE: The BTW educator position requires the use of a personal vehicle for commuting to meetings, field studies, etc.

Fax (301-292-8201) or cover letter and resume to Jeanne Troy.

Educator/Naturalist (Seasonal/Part-Time)

Students participating in education program at HBF

Position: Educator/Naturalist, (part-time)
Employer: Alice Ferguson Foundation, Hard Bargain Farm Environmental Center
Location: Accokeek, Maryland (ten miles south of Washington, D.C.)

Salary/Benefits: $10/hour, averaging 20-30 hours per week in spring and fall, 10-20 hours per week in winter, plus two Saturdays per month. In summer, 25-35 hours per week for preparation and directorship of one week-long summer camp, and assistance in summer teacher institutes.

Starting Date: Open

The Educator /Naturalist will:

  • Conduct on-site environmental education programs, including agricultural, ecology field studies, and team-building activities, using hands-on, inquiry-based activities and teaching styles.
  • Assist with program planning and curriculum development.
  • Organize and coordinate a one-week summer camp.
  • Participate in staff development including training and conferences.
  • Assist with farm chores as needed, including animal care, planting and harvesting.
  • Participate in AFF special events.
  • Support educational, community, and environmental outreach through presentations, demonstrations, newsletters, Web sites, and/or other outreach activities.

Qualifications:

  • Comfort in and appreciation of the out-of-doors, and experience working with children.
  • Bachelor’s or higher degree in Science, Environmental Education, Agriculture, Education, Natural Resources, Physical or Outdoor Recreation, or a related field.
  • Ability to hike daily and lead inquiry-based, hands-on environmental education activities.
  • Knowledge of ecology, aquatic habitats, and flora and fauna.
  • Willingness to learn to drive tractor and work with barnyard animals.
  • CPR, First aid and canoe safety training or a willingness to acquire training.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Demonstrated teaching competence
  • Certifications in CPR and First Aid
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Physical ability to hike, canoe, drive a tractor and assist with farm chores

Application Information: Please send cover letter and resume to:

Alice Ferguson Foundation/Hard Bargain Farm Education Center
2001 Bryan Point Road
Accokeek, MD 20607
(301) 292-5665   FAX (301) 292-1070

Alice Ferguson Foundation
2001 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, Maryland 20607
webmail@fergusonfoundation.org
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