Virginia Tech is a public land-grant university, committed to teaching and learning, research, and outreach to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world. Building on its motto of Ut Prosim (that I may serve), Virginia Tech is dedicated to InclusiveVT-serving in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence. We seek candidates who adopt and practice the Principles of Community, which are fundamental to our on-going efforts to increase access and inclusion, and to create a community that nurtures learning and growth for all of its members. Virginia Tech actively seeks a broad spectrum of candidates to join our community in preparing leaders for the world.

Position Summary:
The Master Gardener Program Assistant provides leadership for the Horticulture Help Desk, helping volunteers identify and troubleshoot home horticulture problems brought in by members of the community. In addition, this position provides administrative support to the Master Gardener Coordinator. Responsibilities include:
Horticulture Help Desk office
• Direct support to Help Desk volunteers, assisting with plant disease and insect identification, and with delivering research-based recommendations to clients
• Assuring that the Help Desk is providing timely and consistent answers
• Brainstorming and working with Help Desk Committee volunteers to improve current systems (software, forms, equipment, etc.)
• Training volunteers (in disease and insect identification, sample collection/submission to labs, on-line research, customer service, etc.)
• Monitoring schedule and recruiting adequate number of volunteers to staff Help Desk
• Provide support for Special Event Help Desks at community fairs, farmers markets, etc.
Membership
• Assisting with scheduling events, member meetings, or event logistics
• Maintaining/updating the Volunteer Management System ( VMS ) database
• Assisting the Coordinator with technical aspects of the volunteer Training Course
• Tracking volunteer records, certifications and milestones
Marketing/Public Outreach
• Monitoring website and Facebook site for accuracy
• Assisting with production of social media content
• Maintaining materials for Special Event Help Desks
• Development of new promotional materials

Required Qualifications:
• Horticultural education or experience
• Basic computer and social media skills
• Experience working with volunteers
• Ability to multitask
• Adept at working in groups and with individuals
• Friendly, customer service attitude
• Required to obtain VA pesticide certification (category 10)

Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with plant disease identification and insect identification
• IT or website development experience
• Database content management skills
• Experience marketing programs and events
• Development of print resources, fliers, newsletters



To apply please click here!