Provides overall direction of Wilderness Programming to Summer Camp, Leadership and Outpost (extended tripping) Programs. Manages related risk to ensure the operation of the wilderness tripping program is at the highest level of quality, recognizing that the trail is one of the most effective tools for achieving our mission. Works in tandem with team members to hire the best staff, implement programs and provide overall participant experience that embraces the Manito-wish mission, vision and the core YMCA values of honesty, respect, caring & responsibility.
The Wilderness Program Director performs the following services:
- Oversee risk management efforts in wilderness programming aspects of all 3 program areas
- Supervise the operation of the Outpost program and related wilderness programming staff
- Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate quality Seasonal Administrative, Outpost and Trips House staff
- Serve as a member of the camper & staff recruiting team including attending recruitment events
- Represent Manito-wish positively in all communication both internally & external
- Serve as an on-site host for Manito-wish groups during shoulder seasons
- Collaborate with other key staff in evacuation logistics from the field
- Collaborate with the Camp Director to create and supervise transportation training and logistics for all wilderness tripping
- Plan for and respond to emergencies both on wilderness trips and on Manito-wish camp property
- Create and manage budgets related to Outpost and Wilderness trips
- Inventory, purchase and maintain tripping equipment and food for all wilderness programs
- Communicate facility use, meals and equipment related needs in accordance to areas of responsibility utilizing established tools
- Coordinate the development and planning of the Outdoor Leaders School
- Compile and analyze annual tripping accident, near miss and incidents information and report to the Program Team, Management Team
- Recommend program changes while keeping Camp Manito-wish YMCA current in wilderness tripping standards, risk management issues, and legislative changes
- Communicate effectively the mission, goals and policies to parents, campers, staff and board
- Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with our volunteers as well as our local, county, state and federal wild lands agencies
- Identify innovative ways to execute and report on the strategic plan as laid out by the board of directors
- Required to live on site in provided private housing
- Other responsibilities as assigned
To perform satisfactorily, the Wilderness Program Director should bring the following experience or skills to this position:
- Two-three years of relevant experience
- Knowledge of YMCA programs, philosophies, and objectives
- Successful experience in management of seasonal staff and the ability to lead collaborative teams.
- Knowledge and experience in our primary methods of wilderness tripping (canoeing, backpacking, and sea kayaking) and their associated risks
- Understand the organizational skills, planning, staff development, and training implications for significant field experience in and related to wilderness travel
- Ability to manage facilities, equipment and resources in collaboration with other staff
- Ability to develop, promote, operate, and evaluate wilderness tripping programs
- Knowledge and use of computer applications and social media
- Willingness to work as a team, in close quarters with a solution focused mindset
- Ability to travel to recruit for participants and seasonal staff
- Budget management experience
- Ability to represent the Camp Manito-wish YMCA in a mature and professional manner
Salary: $37,395.00 - $46,744.00