PROGRAM MANAGER bei Blandford Nature Center

Position Summary 

The Program Manager is responsible for the coordination and delivery of high quality school field trips, community education, recreation, and day camp programs to students, children, adults and families throughout the calendar year. We are looking for an experienced Program Manager to lead and develop our team of talented program staff members who deliver these programs. This is a highly collaborative position, working closely with team members in multiple areas of the organization, including wildlife, marketing, registration, camp, and visitor services. The ideal candidate should have a love of people, experience in program management, and embody a desire to continue Blandford’s reputation for delivery of engaging, mission-driven, nature-based programming. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

● Hire, manage and develop Blandford Nature Center’s team of year-round program staff in delivering all BNC onsite and off-site programs  

● Manage daily operations of school and community education programs year-round at BNC 

● Coordinate a team of BNC staff and volunteers to deliver festivals and other large events at BNC 

● Oversee the pre-season organization of our Summer Camp, including hiring of camp staff 

● Provide support to the camp team throughout the summer camp season 

● Oversee and administer the annual programs calendar in conjunction with others in the organization 

● Assist in the development of the annual Programs budget 

● Collaborate with the Director of Program Operations to optimize programs, including planning, registration systems, program evaluations, and DEI efforts on behalf of the whole organization 

● Assist with planning digital strategies for program promotion 

● Assist with tracking program data and required reporting 

● Lead yearly program curriculum review, ensuring best practices and relevancy 

● Maintain BNC standards of safety and well-being for all program participants and staff 

● Ensure the maintenance and storage of program resources and facilities

Additional Duties and Responsibilities 

● Represent Blandford’s Programs Team at community outreach and fundraising activities 

● Build and maintain positive, effective external relationships with schools, community contractors who lead programs at BNC, and other education- and environment-focused organizations in West Michigan 

● Assist with organization-wide special events 

● Maintain a positive work environment and relationships with colleagues, staff, and volunteers 

● Occasionally serve as support to Visitor Services staff 

● Assist with other organizational duties as assigned 

Minimum Required Qualifications 

● Experience in Education or a non-profit services-related field 

● 3+ years of program management experience 

● 5+ years experience leading a team of 5 or more people 

● Highly collaborative work style; capable of implementing goals while fostering cooperation and consensus 

● Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills 

● Positive role-model in attitude and behavior 

● Ability to work effectively with adults and children in a professional manner 

● Strong interest in and enthusiasm for the the outdoors and environmental issues 

● Excellent judgment and reliability 

● Ability to work effectively and efficiently with all Blandford Nature Center staff and volunteers 

● Exceptional organizational skills and ability to multitask and manage time effectively 

● Experience with Google suite, program registration systems, and design tools, or willingness to learn these applications 

● Must pass a criminal background check and maintain a valid driver’s license with clean driving record 

● Ability to work effectively with people in the outdoors, in all types of weather and over uneven terrain 

● Ability to lift and carry objects up to 30 lbs. 

● Ability to work occasional nights/weekends, approximately 2-4 times per month 

Preferred Qualifications 

● Experience working in outdoor education 

● Experience working for a non-profit organization 

● Experience working with communities with diverse backgrounds and cultures 

● Ability to speak the Spanish language 

● Current CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to get certified 

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