Director of Programs at Cal-Wood Education Center

Cal-Wood History and Mission

Cal-Wood is a non-profit organization that has provided residential environmental and outdoor education programs to hundreds of thousands of Coloradans since 1982 at our 1,200-acre mountain classroom located west of Boulder, Colorado.  Cal-Wood's mission is to offer unique outdoor educational experiences to all ages, including those who would not otherwise experience nature. We offer Residential Science School Programs, Summer Camps, Latino Family Camps, High School Science Programs, and Retreats. Cal-Wood has received several national and local awards because of our quality programs and our efforts to serve linguistically diverse audiences

In all programming, Cal-Wood incorporates best practices in environmental and STEM education, breaks down socio-economic and cultural barriers for nature-based learning, models conservation and stewardship, and connects with English Language Learners through innovative and differentiated instruction by using Sheltered English instruction which integrates language and content instruction.

Responsibilities and Knowledge

We are looking for someone experienced within a service-based nonprofit organization, demonstrating the ability to think strategically, execute established plans, effectively manage staff, leverage financial resources, and achieve exceptional results in alignment with the organization’s mission.

The Director of Programs oversees our year round residential science school program, summer camps, Latino Family Camps, high school Science programs, and Retreats. The Director must have extensive knowledge of personnel management, program management, marketing, program evaluation, strategic planning, basic fundraising, and partnership building skills. 

Because our main program serves schools, the director must have knowledge of elementary, middle, and secondary education, science/environmental education teaching techniques, curriculum development, knowledge of educational standards, and evaluation methods. 

This is a leadership position, which we expect this position to assist the Executive Director with annual planning, budgeting, participating in some board meetings, and take part in the decision making about the future of Cal-Wood. 

Qualifications: 

• A deep commitment to the mission and values of our organization.
• Minimum of bachelor’s degree in environmental education, Natural Resources, Natural Sciences, Education, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience teaching environmental/conservation education and curriculum development.
• At least 4 years of experience directing residential EE programs with supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with experience managing a team of program professionals.
• People skills, team player, outgoing, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self-motivated.
• Demonstrate ability to interact effectively with key stakeholders, constituents, government agencies, and partners.
• We are looking to hire someone who is culturally diverse and being bilingual is a plus (Spanish).
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 
• Strong communication skills with staff, teachers, and children.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally.
• Understanding of the Academic Standards.
• Experience in budget and planning management. 
• Experience in working with diverse audiences. 
• Experience in marketing educational programs.
• Some experience with events and retreat management. 
• Some summer camp experience. 
• Have strong written and oral skills.
• Proficient with Google Drive and MS Office. 
• Fundraising experience is a plus.

Desired Outcomes: 

• Fulfill our strategic plan goals for the next three years: 
  • Maintain our high-quality programs and increase our participation from 4,300 to 5,800 students annually. 
  • Aim for 50% or more of Cal-Wood’s program participants to come from underserved communities and or who might not otherwise have access. 
  • Tailor programming to meet the needs of individual students and schools. 
  • Draw attention to the potential positive mental health and wellness benefits of our programming.
  • Solidify the Latino Family Program by securing long-term partnerships and funding. 
  • Increase our high school science program for underrepresented teens from 3 to 10 week-long summer programs. 
  • Identify what kinds of summer programming meet Cal-Wood’s and the community’s needs. 
  • Maximize the potential of retreats to support our mission, serve those who align with our mission, and diversify our income stream. 
  • Be open to new and innovative programs to meet changing needs in the community. 

Staff Supervision: The Director of Programs hires, supervises, and evaluates:

• The school program manager 
• The community engagement and Latino family coordinator 
• The part-time retreat coordinator 
• The part-time summer programs coordinator. 

Because the school program is our largest program, the director will spend 60% of the time supporting this program. 

Working Schedule: Because we are a residential center, we expect this position to work on site most of the time from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, except when the director has meetings in town. This schedule has flexibility, and it might change week by week.  

Special Requirements: Some weekend and evening hours are required. Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check. Cal-Wood is located in the foothills of the mountains which means a 4WD vehicle with good tires is necessary. 

Starting Date: January 15, 2024.