Director of Outdoor Learning Experiences – Operations

Job Purpose:

The Director of Operations for Outdoor Learning Experiences (OLE) is a key member of the leadership team responsible for overseeing both the programmatic and financial aspects of the Outdoor Learning Experiences Department at Teton Science Schools. Collaborating closely with the Head of Outdoor Learning Experiences and other Directors, this role plays a pivotal part in shaping and implementing strategic plans, fostering professional development within the team, delivering impactful programming, and utilizing resources effectively to advance Teton Science Schools’ mission.

With a primary focus on operational oversight, the Director spearheads the development and management of systems catering to visiting groups, program coordinators, and overall program administration. Additionally, this position entails mentoring and supervising a dedicated team of program coordinators tasked with refining operational systems within Outdoor Learning Experiences.

Qualifications:

• Ability to manage risk and make leadership decisions
• Experience mentoring and evaluating educators and facilitators
• Ability to work both independently and cooperatively on a team
• Possess superior organizational skills
• Ability to communicate in writing and in person, and experience with Google Applications
• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in science, education or related field. Master’s degree in science, education or related field preferred
• Willingness to work long hours and untraditional work weeks including some nights, holidays and weekends

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

• Primarily based at the Kelly Campus of Teton Science Schools with potential meetings, interactions, and work on all campuses locations
• Primarily indoors in an office setting: sitting and standing for long stretches while using a computer
• Stretches of time outdoors in all weather, including extreme temperatures and arid conditions
• May be expected to work evenings, holidays or weekends to support programs and events
• Carry a backpack of 20+ lbs for 8 hours a day over uneven terrain
• Time spent hiking/camping in front- and back-country settings
• Able to drive 15 passenger vans for extended periods (up to 10 hours per day)

Responsibilities:

Outdoor Learning Experiences Leadership 

• Provide stable, forward-thinking leadership to the Outdoor Learning Experiences Team.
• Be responsible, in collaboration with the Head of OLE and OLE Directors,  for attracting, selecting, hiring, retaining, developing, and evaluating properly qualified OLE staff, as well as terminating personnel when needed.
• Directly supervise members of the OLE operations team, providing goal review, mentorship, and supervision with regards to their hosting of OLE programs and their mentorship and training of OLE Instructors.
• Support needs of other teams within OLE ( the staff systems team and the curriculum and  instruction team)
• Foster a positive and innovative learning environment that promotes excellence.
• Other roles and responsibilities as needed to accomplish the goals of Outdoor Learning Experience Department at Teton Science Schools.

Outdoor Learning Experiences Operations Focus Area 

• Responsible for OLE systems including food service, gear, budgets, hands to work, registration, operations, and campus systems.
• Responsible for  contracts, calendars, pre-arrival communications, welcome packets and internal and external reservations.
• Manage program administration systems including supervision of Program Administrator and interface with TSS food service and Property Management team.
• Responsible for collaboration with outside contractors and service providers in the delivery of OLE programs
• Communicate the goals and needs of the operations team to the greater OLE team while actively pursuing ongoing feedback and input.
• Represent OLE on cross-organization operations including stewardship of organizational, campus, IT, risk, and financial systems.
• Promote and manage a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for students
• Uphold TSS’ commitment to thoughtful and proactive risk management; promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive working and learning environment for staff and participants.

Educator Development 

• Coach Instructors to develop and refine pedagogical, instructional, and leadership skills.
• Plan and implement onboarding, training and professional development for Instructors to provide place-based programming in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks that increases scientific literacy, understanding of place and leadership skills.

Hosting Programs 

• Work with visiting groups to develop customized, high-quality, place-based education programs.
• Facilitate the growth of educators through all aspects of programming including meetings and debriefs.
• Complete administrative duties necessary for high quality programs and efficient customer service including resource management, scheduling and program logistics.

Work location: Primarily Kelly Campus of the Teton Science Schools, but may include shifts at Jackson Campus and the Murie Ranch.

This job description is not meant to state or imply that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their manager in compliance with federal and state laws.