Overview
SUMMARY
Based out of the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center (ELC) on Diablo Lake in the heart of North Cascades National Park, the Mountain School Manager provides leadership and program oversight for the Mountain School program. Key responsibilities include developing and managing the program budget; hiring a high-functioning program instruction team; evaluating and updating the program curriculum; supervising key staff responsible for delivering the program; and collaborating closely with other Institute departments and programs. A key member of the Institute’s Program Team, this position works closely with program coordinators, staff instructors, and other managers to ensure high quality instruction, provide logistical support, and implement effective risk management.
COMPENSATION
This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position. The pay rate is $24.00 to $27.25 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. We offer a competitive compensation package; benefits include paid time-off, medical/dental insurance, long and short-term disability insurance, tax-deferred annuity and contribution retirement plan, and a yearly stipend to participate in Institute programs.
HOUSING
Subsidized housing available. Private rooms in shared houses are typically available. In some cases, roommates in shared rooms may be required.
Given the remote location, personal transportation is required.
Smoking is not allowed in housing, during programs, or on the Institute’s campus. Pets are not allowed on the Institute’s campus.
START DATE
January 6, 2025; or as soon as possible after this date
RESPONSIBILITIES
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT AND OVERSIGHT
• Provides leadership, design, and management of the Mountain School program and its curriculum, including integration of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; Next Generation Science Standards; and other key principles.
• Develops and manages the annual program budget; builds the program calendar, and manages contracting and billing of school partners.
• Plans and leads the hiring of program instructors; seeks to hire a workforce that reflects the diversity of our target audience.
LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION
• Directly supervises the Program Coordinators for Mountain School and Family Getaways (2); indirectly supervises the Program Instructor team (8-10).
• Works collaboratively with the Program Director, Operations Director, and other program managers to provide leadership to the ELC community.
• Works collaboratively with development staff, marketing staff, and Institute leadership to meet goals for Mountain School and the Institute as a whole.
LEARNING CENTER OPERATIONS
• Works with the Operations Director to implement and uphold Risk Management and Institute policies and procedures.
INSTRUCTION
• Leads Mountain School instructor training, and supports other instructor training throughout the year.
• Provides instructional support to programs when needed.
Qualifications:
• At least two years of experience: delivering environmental or place-based education; supervising adults; working with school-aged children.
• Demonstrated ability to: coach staff and foster a positive, inclusive workplace environment; prioritize tasks with exemplary time management and problem-solving skills
• Current Wilderness First Responder certification or higher
Required Skills:
• Strong writing and presentation skills
• Experience managing a budget
• Willingness to accommodate a varied schedule including evenings, nights, and weekends
Preferred Skills:
• Other relevant experience will be considered
About North Cascades Institute
North Cascades Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.
North Cascades Institute is a respected leader among U.S. environmental education organizations, and we believe that sustainable communities are built on healthy environments, vibrant economies and social equity. The Institute is in sound financial health with a $4 million budget and strong reserves, and 15 four-star ratings with Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.
