Program Director

Overview

The RoPJ Program Director oversees the organization’s programs, including backcountry
and basecamp summer programs, leadership training, community programs and school
programs. As Program Director, you will play a pivotal role in the success of the organization,
reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Administration & Community
Outreach (A&CO) Manager, Seasonal Basecamp Manager, Interns and Board of Directors. Your
responsibilities encompass all facets of program development and delivery.

This is a salaried, non-exempt position eligible for overtime pay as approved by the Executive
Director. In the summer, the position can require irregular hours. During the rest of the year,
some irregular hours may apply. Must be based in the Greater Seattle Metro area. Priority will be given to those who apply by Mar. 9, 2026

Compensation
● $50,000-$60,000 annual salary based on experience
● 4 weeks paid time off per year, plus sick time and holidays
● $600 monthly stipend for healthcare costs
● Comp time possible for weekend or evening work during the off-season.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver High Quality Programs:
– Recruit, hire, train and supervise exceptional program staff.
– Establish and maintain procedures related to program logistics, including transportation,
itineraries, permits, food, gear, supplies, paperwork, and facilities in coordination with
other members of the administrative team.
– Co-design School and Community Programs aligned with the organizational mission.
– Deliver ongoing assessment and co-development of risk management policies with the
Executive Director and Risk Management Committee. Lead implementation of risk
management practices.

Maintain and Develop Curriculum:

– Develop and implement systems for evaluating program quality and staff performance,
integrating improvements as needed.
– Create and manage a staff manual and curriculum resources.
– Supervise contract and custom programs, developing curriculum and ensuring
exceptional program delivery.

Champion Programs through Outreach & Marketing

– Create and distribute compelling print and online materials to market programs.
– Enhance Journeys’ brand as a central hub for Rite of Passage programs, knowledge, and
training.
– Establish and maintain connections with Journeys’ professional networks and partner
organizations.
– Strategically cultivate and expand our community of supporters to amplify Journeys’
mission and programs.

Additional Roles & Responsibilities:

– Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop and manage program budgets.
– Assist with the registration process by managing higher-level communications with
participants and families.
– Help coordinate duties for Seasonal Basecamp Manager, intern, floating logistics/guide
role and volunteers
– Develop and communicate standards for guides to uphold in embodying Journeys’
values both in the world and online.
– Other duties as needed within our small but mighty team.

Tagged as: Administrative Staff, Backcountry Skills, Camp Staff, Development, Full Time, Instruction and Guiding, Sales and Marketing, Teaching/Education

Qualifications:

- Four or more years of outdoor program management experience with a professional
interest in at least one of the following areas: working with youth in a therapeutic or
educational environment or working in rites of passage/vision fast work.
- Experience in leading wilderness expeditions and expertise in best practices for
wilderness travel.
- Competency in risk management, crisis response, and conflict resolution.

Required Skills:

● Minimum age of 21.
● Physically capable of participating in Journeys’ activities.
● Successful completion of a criminal background check.
● Satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Skills:

- Current Wilderness First Responder Certification
- Outstanding interpersonal communication skills and the ability to build strong
relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds
- Experience in developing and delivering staff training.