SECRETS Program Manager

DEPARTMENT: Gorge Ecology Outdoors (GEO)

JOB TITLE: SECRETS Program Manager

WORK LOCATION: The Dalles, OR 

REPORTS TO: GEO Program Director

WAGE CLASSIFICATION: Hourly Full-time 

BENEFITS: Flexible schedule, 3 weeks PTO with yearly increases, 8 annual holidays, paid professional development, and the ability to work remotely when programs are not in session.

APPLICATION REVIEW/INTERVIEWS: The initial review of applicants and interview invitations will begin on December 18th. The process will continue until the position is filled.

ANTICIPATED START DATE: January 15, 2024.
 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The SECRETS Program Manager is a key member of a team of passionate educators dedicated to providing transformative place-based environmental education experiences to 5th-grade students in Hood River and North Wasco School Districts. The SECRETS program comprises of seven lessons presented in the classroom that focus on general ecological concepts as they are found in the local environment and concludes with a community outreach presentation and a full-day field trip to a nearby natural area. 

The primary responsibilities include maintaining relationships with schools and teachers, managing the program's scheduling, and presenting the SECRETS curriculum with the assistance of a SECRETS field instructor. Additionally, the SECRETS Program Manager assists the GEO Program Director in developing and presenting GEO’s other program offerings, such as after-school programming, spring overnight outdoor schools, summer camps, and outdoor enrichment programming with various community partners.

The work schedule depends on the programming requirements of the season and may include a mix of digital, day, or overnight sessions. The majority of work hours occur Monday - Friday between 8 am and 6 pm, with periods of overnight residential programming during the spring outdoor school session. When programming necessitates long days, compensation is made with shortened days later in the two-week pay period.

This role involves significant interaction with the public, necessitating strong interpersonal and communication skills. Above all, the ideal candidate will bring a profound passion for guiding students through enriching experiences that uncover the marvels of the natural world.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Curriculum Coordination and Delivery: Coordinate and deliver the SECRETS curriculum to 5th-grade students, supported by a SECRETS Field Instructor.
• Partnership Management: Effectively manage and nurture existing partnerships with schools and teachers. Proactively expand the program's reach by establishing connections with new educational partners.
• Program Logistics: Secure and maintain necessary supplies, coordinate volunteers, and schedule various programs.
• Program Development and Facilitation: As required - Develop and facilitate new and existing GEO programs, classes, and activities, ensuring alignment with the missions of CGDCM and GEO.
• Grant Writing and Fundraising Support: As required - Provide assistance in writing grants and fundraising efforts for programs, including communication and engagement with supporters.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Outdoor Leadership: Comfort with leading groups of students in non-traditional settings while providing for their safety and comfort.
• Educational Skills: Proficiency in lesson planning, facilitation, and presentation.
• Curriculum Knowledge: Familiarity with current K-5 curriculum standards, particularly for integration into science-based presentations.
• Subject Expertise: Working knowledge of Natural History and Ecology concepts.
• Interpersonal and Management Skills: Strong interpersonal, management, and communication abilities.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Demonstrated experience or ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Pre-Employment Checks: Requirement for pre-employment checks, such as criminal background and reference verification.
• Valid Driver’s License: Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Health and Safety: Proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

PREFERENCES:

• Educational Background: Bachelor's degree, or equivalent work experience, in STEM or Education fields.
• Experience: Prior experience in classroom settings, enrichment programs, or youth engagement with a focus on positive behavior management and environmental education.
• DEI Knowledge: Developed understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
• Language Skills: Proficiency or native fluency in a second language (other than English).

TO APPLY:

• Resume Submission: Email your resume to Danny Cosgrove at danny@gorgediscovery.org
• Additional Materials: In lieu of a CV or cover letter, provide an example of an explorative educational experience you have led or been a part of. This can be presented in a format of your choosing, such as a lesson plan with implementation details, a half-page narrative, a video, etc. The submission should highlight a particularly rewarding experience for both you and your audience. The goal is that this example sparks an insightful and personalized discussion during an interview.
• Professional References: Two professional references will be requested after the initial interview.