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.
Director of Development
POSITION OVERVIEW: We seek a skilled professional fundraiser to lead Alice Ferguson Foundation’s Development Team. The Development Director reports to the Executive Director of the Alice Ferguson Foundation, supervises a Development Associate, and works collaboratively with staff and consultants to lead a comprehensive development operation. Responsibilities include: Leading an aggressive, non-traditional capital campaign; building and sustaining a strong and diverse annual fund; cultivating an individual donor-base including low, mid-level, and major donors; implementing systems to ensure proper management of donor information and relationships; and researching and writing grants to foundations, corporations, and state and federal government programs. In addition, s/he will manage the development of media outreach, marketing, and promotional materials, as well as fundraising and awareness building events.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelors degree preferred and/or a minimum of seven years of fundraising experience, with proven track record in foundation grant writing, corporate sponsorships, individual and membership development and special events.
- Attention to detail and the ability to organize, establish priorities, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Computer proficiency including Razor’s Edge, Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Power Point, web page maintenance, contact management.
- Knowledge in charitable giving laws and compliance regulations.
- Strong commitment to the environment and environmental education for children.
- Background with media relations, image development and/or marketing.
HOW TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to:
Development Director Search Committee
c/o Julia Washburn
Alice Ferguson Foundation
2001 Bryan Point Road,
Accokeek, Maryland, 20607
United States
(301) 292-5665 FAX(301)292-1070
Outdoor Educator/Outreach Coordinator
POSITION DESCRIPTION: Wanted: an outstanding educator who is deeply committed to outdoor direct experience education. The Coordinator will schedule and implement classroom outreach in Washington DC and nearby Maryland suburbs to supplement outdoor educational experiences at Hard Bargain Farm in Accokeek, Maryland. Will manage grant reports, student evaluation, and assist with teacher professional development. Will facilitate field studies for students from pre-K through high school at sites throughout the greater metropolitan Washington, DC area. Full or part time position with benefits. Salary commensurate with experience.QUALIFICATIONS: Must have environmental background, excellent organizational skills, and experience in teaching children.
HOW TO APPLY: Send resume and cover letter via e-mail () or postal mail to: E. Campbell, 2001 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, MD 20607
Bridging the Watershed Part-time/Seasonal Educator
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:
- Assists in planning and presenting field studies in national parks
- Provides pre-and/or post-field experiences in school classrooms
- Attends meetings at schools, parks, etc.
- Maintains program records (e.g., field study reports, updates)
- Communicates with BTW partners
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
- Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in science (i.e., environmental science, biology, natural resources) or education with major in science
- Experience working in the out-of-doors
- At least 3 years experience presenting education programs
- Exhibits understanding of inquiry-based science
- Experience working with adolescents
- Dynamic presentation skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Good computer skills (e.g., PC/Windows XP, Microsoft Word, Excel)
- Good organization and problem-solving skills
- 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)
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
