Program Director for Hartley Outdoor Education Center

POSITION DESCRIPTION
 
POSITION TITLE:                HARTLEY OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAM DIRECTOR
CLASSIFICATION:               ADMINISTRATOR
DEPARTMENT:                   HARTLEY OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTER
REPORTS TO:                     DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT OF OPERATIONS

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

1. Administrative/Non-Bargaining
2. One (1) Full-time, 12 month position (261-days).
3. Competitive compensation package with salary commensurate with the education and experience of the candidate.  An annual contract with provisions for annual review and evaluation will be offered.  A fringe benefit package is offered, which includes health, dental, vision, life, and long term disability insurances.

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: Saginaw Intermediate School District is seeking a dynamic, innovative, and visionary leader to serve as Program Director for Hartley Outdoor Education Center. This role offers a unique opportunity to guide and grow one of the state’s premier outdoor education centers. We are looking for an individual who excels in leadership, communication, and strategic thinking to ensure Hartley Outdoor Education Center—including Murphy Farm—continues to thrive as a hub for outdoor learning, environmental stewardship, and innovative programming. Whether your background is in outdoor education, therapeutic wilderness programs, parks and recreation, or school leadership, we encourage you to apply if you have a passion for inspiring learners of all ages in an experiential outdoor setting at this beautiful 311 acre facility.

The Program Director, reporting to the Deputy Superintendent of Operations for the Saginaw Intermediate School District, is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Hartley Outdoor Education Center’s programs and facilities. This includes the development and implementation of educational programs, the management of staff, facilities, and budgets, as well as promoting the center to a variety of stakeholders. The Program Director is expected to provide visionary leadership, foster a collaborative work environment, and maintain Hartley Outdoor Education Center’s focus on innovation and educational excellence.  

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Hartley Outdoor Education Center Program Director responsibilities include but are not limited to:

1. Develop, communicate, and execute a strategic vision for the Hartley Outdoor Education Center that aligns with current educational trends and the District's mission and vision.
2. Foster an innovative approach to outdoor education and environmental programming.
3. Oversee the design and implementation of outdoor education and innovative programs, while ensuring that the curriculum supports both environmental education and broader educational goals.
4. Maintain a safe, clean, and well-functioning environment across all center facilities, and regularly review and ensure compliance with safety protocols and procedures for staff, students, and visitors.
5. Recruit, mentor, and manage a diverse team of educators, staff, and maintenance personnel that fosters a positive work environment that encourages professional growth and collaboration.
6. Develop and administer a cost-effective budget for the Hartley Outdoor Education Center’s operations that may include fundraising initiatives, grant writing, and donor engagement to support the center's long-term financial sustainability.
7. Build strong relationships with the public, education community, and program stakeholders, while promoting Hartley Outdoor Education Center’s programs and services to schools, families, and community groups through effective communication and marketing strategies.
8. Establish and maintain strong partnerships with local schools, businesses, and environmental organizations to enhance program offerings and community involvement.
9. Develop and maintain partnerships with the Hartley Outdoor Education Foundation and other key stakeholders.
10. Oversee the maintenance and development of the center’s buildings, grounds, and resources, and coordinate with District staff to plan and execute improvements and new projects as needed.
11. Lead special projects as assigned by the Deputy Superintendent, focusing on innovative program development and continuous improvement of Hartley Outdoor Education Center’s offerings.
12. Other duties as assigned by the Deputy Superintendent.

 
QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Master’s Degree in Education (preferred) or Master’s Degree in Environmental Education, Recreation, Parks and Recreation Management, Educational Leadership, or a related field. Substantial related administrative leadership experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.
2. Minimum of five (5) years of leadership experience in outdoor education, school administration, therapeutic wilderness programs, parks and recreation, or a related field.
3. Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans, lead teams, and drive innovation.
4. Strong communication, interpersonal, and public relations skills, with the ability to engage a broad range of stakeholders, including students, educators, community members, and donors.
5. Experience with budget management, fundraising, and grant writing.
6. Demonstrated experience in program development, including program development and implementation.
7. Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends as required.
8. Technological proficiency with current tools and software used for communication, data management, and program operations.
9. Knowledge and proficiency in federal, state, and local licensing for outdoor camps and programs.
10. Experience with the maintenance and operation of outdoor education facilities, including knowledge of equipment and safety protocols.
11. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with a high level of attention to detail and ethical decision-making.
12. Commitment to the mission of outdoor education and environmental stewardship.
13. Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
14. Ability to travel to different sites and buildings throughout the course of the workday.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applicants must complete and submit an online Saginaw Intermediate School District application.  Apply online at https://www.applitrack.com/sisdcc/onlineapp/JobPostings/view.asp?FromAdmin=true&AppliTrackJobId=4115.  Click on the “Apply” link next to the Job ID number.  In addition to the online application, applicants are required to submit electronically a cover letter, resume, at least three (3) letters of recommendation, and copies of transcripts.

JOB ID: 4115