The Public Programs & Education Manager will coordinate, implement, and lead all programs in signature outdoor experiences that foster self-reliance and self-confidence through interdisciplinary learning and active exploration. They will deliver the public with unforgettable experiences filled with adventure, service, science, and fun. Through experiential learning, they will strengthen understanding of critical conservation issues and nurture a love for the great outdoors. Additionally, this person will ensure that programs meet the standards of educational excellence established by Audubon. They will work with Audubon Texas staff to develop education activities that substantially integrate and support National Audubon Society's strategic plan and the conservation goals of the Center. They will facilitate, manage and oversee all of the public programming; including kayaking trips, night hikes, birding hikes, overnight camping at the center, boy/girl scout programs, and camp/other activities during spring and summer breaks. They will also perform an evaluation of all program oversights and report metrics to evaluate program progress and success.
- Design and implement programmatic themes and details:
- develop strong conservation programming relevant to destinations.
- develop partnerships with experts in travel destinations.
- seek out and coordinate service learning opportunities.
- reserve opportunities for outdoor exploration (e.g. hiking, kayaking, birding, rock climbing, paddling).
- Manage and facilitate kayaking programs, scout badge programs, and other public programming.
- Manage and plan logistical aspects of travel: coordinate transportation, reserve campsites, design meal plans, maintain travel budget.
- Evaluate and report metrics including revenue and students served.
- Market and recruit groups to participate in the public programs. Set-up meetings with local schools and other communities, design promotional material, attend community events/outreach.
- Assist with daily programs including teaching and preparing materials/equipment.
- Minimum of three years’ experience teaching environmental programs. Experience travelling with students preferred.
- Must demonstrate excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, self-confidence and resilience.
- Must be self-motivated, innovative, and proactive: a strong self-starter.
- Must demonstrate excellent organizational skills and demonstrate careful and efficient use of work time.
- Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, website updating, and social media.
- Must be able to work independently, but also thrive in a team environment.
- Previous experience teaching diverse audiences is required. Must have a demonstrated interest in nature and children.
- Experience and confidence teaching outdoor skills including: kayaking/canoeing, hiking, and camping.
- Prior experience with kayak instruction, swiftwater rescue technician, wilderness first aid certification, and National Association for Interpretation certificiation is preferred.
- Experience driving a 15 passenger van with a trailer in tow is a plus.
- Experience working in a nature center, zoo, aquarium, museum, or park a plus.
- Flexibility with schedule including weekends, weekdays, holidays, and evenings required.
- Much of our work is outdoors and requires physical fitness. Must be able to withstand heat and cold and perform physical duties such as lifting, reaching, pulling/pushing, outfitting outdoor adventures, hiking, camping, etc. with or without accommodation.
- CDL preferred.
- Ability to obtain certain certifications upon hire- relevant to the job.