Nature-Based Therapeutic Services Program Associate

Join the Arboretum's Nature-Based Therapeutic Services team and help us bring the healing power of nature to the wider community. As a Program Associate, you will deliver therapeutic
services to people with diverse health and wellbeing needs through nature-based service contracts with community agencies. You will directly utilize the Arboretum's unique plant
collections and materials to design and lead nature-based programs both on-site and at various off-site locations. This position will report to the Nature-Based Therapeutic Program Manager. This position is funded by and contingent on ongoing service contracts and renewals.

Key Responsibilities:
Program Development and Delivery (90%)
* Design, implement, and evaluate a variety of nature-based therapeutic programs for diverse populations, ensuring all programs meet the needs outlined in agency contracts.
* Prepare and facilitate engaging, hands-on therapeutic sessions utilizing plants, plant materials, and the natural environment of the Arboretum and off-site locations.
* Provide consultation services to agencies/facilities interested in developing NBT programs.
* Monitor supply levels and appropriate equipment for nature-based therapeutic program materials. Using a P-Card and sourcing supplies as needed.
* Track program metrics and conduct thorough evaluations to measure impact, inform future planning, and meet reporting requirements for contracted partners.
Administrative Support (10%)
* Manage contract budgets, monitor expenditures, and purchase necessary program supplies and materials.
* Handle general administrative tasks and other duties as assigned to ensure seamless program operation.
* Complete any needed incident and/or program reports as mandated by Administration.

Required Qualifications:
* A Bachelor's degree in a mental health or related discipline (e.g., social work, psychology, counseling, occupational therapy) plus two (2) years of professional experience as a mental health practitioner or therapeutic recreation program leader.
-OR-
Six (6) years of direct, relevant experience as a mental health practitioner.
* Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs. (e.g., carrying program supplies, plants).
* Ability to walk, sit, or stand for extended periods while leading or preparing for programs.
* Must possess a valid driver's license and have a reliable personal vehicle to transport supplies and travel to various contract locations.
* Must be proficient in using technology-based communication and collaboration tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Zoom, etc.).
* Successful completion of a criminal background check is required prior to employment.
* Detail oriented, organized and responsible.
* Clear and candid written and oral communication skills.
* Excellent problem-solving skills, critical thinking and good judgment.
* Demonstrates ability to set program priorities and coordinate people and projects with reasonable expectations.

Preferred Qualifications
* Master's Degree in a mental health or related discipline
* Licensure in a regulated and accredited mental health or education profession (e.g. Social Work or Occupational Therapy)
* Academic coursework and/or work experience in natural sciences related content areas such as horticulture, forestry, botany, biology, environmental studies, etc.
* Academic coursework and/or work experience in social science related content areas such as child development, psychology, gerontology, kinesiology, etc.

Pay Range: $24.50 - $25.15; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).