Virginia Association for Biological Farming

Education and Outreach Coordinator Position Description

Status: Half-time (20 Hrs/wk) Salaried Non-Exempt Employee

Work Arrangement: Day-to-day work is remote. Events are generally in person and occasionally occur on evenings and weekends

Funding: This position is 50% grant-funded with guaranteed full funding for 1 year.

Who We Are

The Virginia Association for Biological Farming (VABF) advances sustainable agriculture through education, advocacy, and promotion of organic and biological growing practices that prioritize soil health, ecological balance, and the production of healthy food. We foster a diverse community of farmers, gardeners, homesteaders, researchers, educators, and supporters of local food systems through collaboration, peer-to-peer learning, and networking events. Learn more at: vabf.org.

Job Overview

The Education and Outreach Coordinator will plan, market, and assist with the execution of education and networking events, including farm tours, workshops, field days, farmer listening sessions, tabling events, webinars, and potlucks. In addition, they will coordinate the monthly newsletter and create content for social media and other communication channels to raise awareness of and participation in (VABF) programs and mission. The ideal candidate for this position is an effective communicator who enjoys working collaboratively with team members, partners, and community members to plan and market inclusive events that foster connection and learning.

Essential Responsibilities

In collaboration with team members and partners, plan and manage the logistics of workshops and networking events, including venue selection, scheduling, and coordination with caterers, speakers and host farms.
Arrange listening sessions and assist in facilitation to gather feedback and insights from VABF members and the wider farming community.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the workshops and implement improvements based on feedback.
Ensure that all workshops and events are inclusive, align with VABF's mission and program goals, and that VABF policies and practices are followed.
Create promotional materials and manage event marketing efforts.
Coordinate Ambassadors, other volunteers, and contractors to assist with workshops and events and to increase VABF’s presence across Virginia.
Assist in recruiting and training volunteers.
Create monthly newsletter, and assist with website management and larger communications/marketing goals.
Attend weekly staff and other meetings as needed.

Other functions include

Write, design, review, and edit content and manage posting of engaging and relevant social media content.
Work with the team and board members to develop social media messaging and monthly plans that align with the organization's goals, mission, and values.

Required Skills and Experience

2-5 years of experience in community outreach, education, or volunteer management.
Excellent written and oral communication and relationship-building skills.
The ability to create positive and inclusive experiences for participants and address their needs and concerns.
Demonstrated experience working with a diversity of community partners, volunteers, farmers, or other stakeholders.
A basic proficiency in marketing techniques for promoting educational and networking events through various channels.
Experience using platforms such as Canva, Mailchimp, and WordPress.
Comfortable working autonomously with good judgement and problem-solving skills.
Valid Driver’s license and good driving record.

Additional Helpful Skills or Experience

Knowledge of biological/regenerative farming and gardening practices, local food systems, or familiarity with the Virginia farming community.
Ability to create engaging curriculum and training materials.
Presentation skills.

Physical requirements

Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.
Ability to traverse over unpaved and uneven landscapes.
Access to transportation and the ability to drive to distant events. A considerable amount of driving may be required.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range is $22,000 - $27,000 ($44,000 - $54,000 full time equivalent)

We offer flexible hours and a generous and inclusive PTO policy.

Mileage reimbursement of 72.5 cents/mile for use of personal vehicle to attend events

Equal Employment Opportunity

VABF is an equal opportunity employer and understands the value of having a team with a diversity of experiences and perspectives to optimize our potential for compassion, collaboration, creativity, and excellence in service.

To apply, please email a cover letter relating your education and experience to this position and your resume to Becki DeRusseau at becki.derusseau@vabf.org.

Virginia Association for Biological Farming

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Education & Outreach Coordinator