Outdoor Education Program and Operations Manager

The ideal candidate for the Outdoor Education Program and Operations Manager position is a dedicated leader with a strong background in outdoor and environmental education, educational program operations, emergency preparedness, and student safety. 

The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in managing logistics for large-scale programs and outdoor education camps, developing safety and compliance protocols, and building strong partnerships with schools, families, and community agencies.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

An Outdoor Education Program and Operations Manager is responsible for managing the operations, safety, and security of the outdoor education centers and the Day of Discovery programs.

TYPICAL DUTIES

• Serves as the primary point of contact for issues related to the health, safety, and welfare of students and facilities at outdoor education centers and Day of Discovery programs.
• Coordinates the “first response” to crisis situations by developing and evaluating site emergency response plans, conducting emergency drills, assessing response protocols at outdoor education centers, completing Situation Reports to update leadership, and collaborating with various District departments during emergencies.
• Conducts site inspections at outdoor education facilities to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, including emergency procedures, asbestos and pest management, campus safety, facilities maintenance, and injury and illness prevention protocols.
• Renews required permits (e.g., swimming pool, well water, animals) and ensure compliance with State Water Board requirements (e.g., water testing, bacteriological tests, water system fees) within established timelines.
• Responds to requests for information and inquiries regarding program data, schedules, staffing, and other information as requested.
• Reviews and approves all K-12 school-initiated hiking and camping trips to non-district sponsored locations.
• Creates and regularly updates program-related materials, including District policies, annual budgets, budget justification plans, onboarding protocols, staff handbooks, safety manuals, brochures, and website content.
• Develops and maintains data tracking systems to monitor program effectiveness, including student participation rates, incident reports, staff vacancies, and program implementation.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION: Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s degree.

• Additional qualifying experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis provided that the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent is met.

EXPERIENCE:  Three years of experience supervising outdoor and environmental education programs, to include monitoring and implementing outdoor education program requirements, analyzing data, and developing reports. Experience with maintenance and operation requirements is preferred, including, but not limited to, requirements related to environmental health and safety compliance, emergency preparedness and response, and permits.

SPECIAL: A valid driver’s license to legally operate a motor vehicle in the State of California and use of a motor vehicle.

SPECIAL NOTES: 

• A First-Aid Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days after appointment and must be kept valid during the term of employment.
• A CPR Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days after appointment and must be kept valid during the term of employment.
• This position requires the employee to be on call and respond to operational concerns, emergencies, weather events, and provide direct support at an outdoor education center or a Day of Discovery partner site as needed.