Co-Director, Place-Based Learning on a Biodynamic Farm

Biodynamics; Independence (KS); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawthorne Valley Farm’s Place Based Learning Center (PBLC) is seeking a Co-Director to lead a dynamic educational program rooted in Waldorf Education, place-based learning, and life on a working biodynamic farm.

This is a year-round leadership position with responsibility for the overall operation and development of the PBLC, including programming, staff leadership, budgeting, facilities, animal care, compliance, and community partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in education or a related field.
• Administrative or organizational leadership experience.
• Proven success as an educational, youth program, or organizational leader.
• Experience managing and supporting staff, including seasonal or temporary employees.
• Experience with Summer Camp management or comparable youth-program leadership.
• Strong financial and budget management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and managerial skills.
• Experience working effectively with people with a wide range of learning styles, communication styles, abilities, and support needs.
• Commitment to the principles and philosophy of Waldorf Education.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and implementation of educational programming for visiting school groups, Hawthorne Valley School students, and other local schools, generally serving students from 3rd through 11th grade.
• Plan and operate the annual Summer Camp program, including seasonal staff recruitment, hiring, onboarding, supervision, scheduling, programming, and day-to-day coordination.
• Manage and support permanent and seasonal staff, fostering a collaborative workplace grounded in respect, honesty, trust, and clear communication.
• Oversee the PBLC’s annual budget and monitor expenses throughout the year, working with the HVA Board of Trustees as needed.
• Collaborate with HVA’s Development and Marketing teams to support fundraising, enrollment, and community outreach goals.
• Oversee the care of program animals and ensure appropriate animal care coverage year-round.
• Provide oversight of the facilities and physical spaces used by the PBLC, including maintenance, cleaning, and program readiness.
• Ensure compliance with applicable health, safety, and Columbia County Department of Health requirements for the PBLC Dining Hall and Summer Camp.
• Participate in HVA’s Inter-branch Management Group and contribute to the broader leadership and community of Hawthorne Valley.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budgeting

Staff management

Waldorf education knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in education or related field

Job description

Hawthorne Valley Farm’s Place Based Learning Center (PBLC) is seeking a Co-Director to lead a dynamic educational program rooted in Waldorf Education, place-based learning, and life on a working biodynamic farm.

This is a year-round leadership position with responsibility for the overall operation and development of the PBLC, including programming, staff leadership, budgeting, facilities, animal care, compliance, and community partnerships.