STEM Program Director, Lone Oaks Farm - UTIA

About the role

The STEM Program Coordinator provides leadership for the planning, development, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of STEM Education programs at Lone Oaks Farm through a partnership between the University of Tennessee Extension and Hardeman County Schools. The position develops and delivers research-based, hands-on learning experiences for students and educators in grades K-12 that align with Tennessee Academic Standards and best practices in STEM education. The Coordinator works closely with school administrators, teachers, and community partners to coordinate field trips, curriculum-based programming, and professional development opportunities throughout the school year. During the summer, the position collaborates with UT Extension to integrate STEM education into 4-H camps, youth development programs, and the summer academy program.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for planning, implementing, and evaluating the STEM Education and Summer Academy programs;
• Deliver current, research-based subject matter information and educational programs for students and teachers in grades K-12 based on Tennessee's Educational Curriculum Guidelines;
• Develop a strong working relationship with school systems throughout West Tennessee and North Mississippi;
• Recruit and train capable teaching staff and volunteers;
• Assist in the development and implementation of a marketing plan targeted to youth, educators, and stakeholders for participant recruitment, securing monetary support, and showcasing program impacts;
• Maintain self-supported funding for the STEM Education program;
• Assist with developing and maintaining a budget following purchasing procedures within the scope of the University for the STEM Education Program;
• Continue the development and securing of external funds via gifts, contracts, and other funding sources in support of the STEM and summer academy programs;
• Establish a working relationship with other local, state, and federal agencies;
• Plan and coordinate with the 4-H and Youth Development Center Director as well as other professional staff, to implement STEM programming;
• Work closely with the Hardeman County School System and the Hardeman County STEM Coordinator to continue developing and implementing curriculum associated with current standards and pacing guides;
• Work nights and weekends as needed with overnight groups across the 4-H and Youth Development Center mission areas;
• Maintain updated equipment and adequate supplies for the delivery of a quality educational and summer program;
• Assist with the training staff in job responsibilities, curricula, and safety procedures;
• Interview and assist in hiring staff;
• Develop and implement marketing and outreach strategies to recruit participants, communicate program impacts, and engage stakeholders;
• Assist with other duties, including but not limited to: basic grounds maintenance, facilities turnover, cooking/assisting with kitchen duties, housekeeping, tending to group needs, and providing programming to UT and other outside rental groups.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, youth development, human development, education, or related field;
• Experience: Supervisory experience; at least two years of experience in teaching, creating curricula, and working with youth;
• Demonstrated success in working with youth and leading educational group experiences;
• CPR/First Aid Certified, Lifeguard Certified (or willing to become certified);
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: The candidate must have a thorough knowledge of the field of STEM Education as it relates to hands-on, outdoor experiences. Must have the skill to organize, apply sound judgment, work independently, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with personnel with varying backgrounds, education, and experience. The candidate must have demonstrated success in the ability to be a team player, maintaining a flexible work schedule, and having excellent customer service skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills as well as leadership skills.