Campus Director, River Base

National Outdoor Leadership School • Lander, WY

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As the Campus Director, you will be responsible for ensuring smooth standard operations at the NOLS River Base in Vernal, Utah. You will oversee a small team of approximately 10 employees, collaborating and problem-solving to provide quality programming and promote an outstanding student experience. You will act as NOLS’ representative in all aspects of operating in Vernal, Utah, from land management and community relationships to program supervision and course operational support.

Requirements

• Extensive technical experience in the rafting industry with an intimate knowledge of the best operational and river safety practices.
• Ability to lead with empathy, emotional intelligence, and nuance in complex and emotionally elevated situations.
• Experience in operational environments where you must make decisions on the fly and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
• Aptitude to communicate across diverse stakeholder groups, adjusting communication style and language to adapt to varying needs.
• Self-motivated individual who is comfortable exercising independent decision-making in high-consequence situations.
• Propensity towards working within teams and have a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
• Manage positive public relations across broad audiences.
• Strong supervisory skills are necessary.
• Post-secondary degree in tourism, recreation management, outdoor education, or a related field.
• 10+ years of whitewater instructor or guide experience, with a knowledge of the areas in which the River Base operates.
• 5 Years of supervisory experience.
• At least 1-year prior experience in an operational leadership role at the NOLS River Base.
• Be a current NOLS whitewater instructor.
• Hold current WFR, Swiftwater River Rescue, and CPR Certifications.

Nice To Haves

• NOLS Field instructor experience in the area of whitewater rafting, kayaking and/or canoeing is highly desirable.
• Preference will be given to candidates with this experience.
• An understanding of NOLS’ philosophy, mission and values is essential as is a belief in the power of a NOLS student experience.
• Preference will be given to applicants who have taught students on NOLS river expeditions as NOLS field faculty.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations at the campus, creating an inclusive, welcoming, and empowering environment for instructors, staff, and students.
• Plan annual and long-term operational needs, including budget preparation, staffing needs, program scheduling, and asset requests.
• Hire, train, supervise, develop, and evaluate a team of 8-10 in-town staff members, depending on the time of year.
• Indirectly supervise the acquisition, maintenance, and safety of the campus facilities, vehicle fleet, equipment, and supplies.
• Provide end-to-end support of expedition students in the field each year, structuring operations to foster a transformational experience.
• Actualize the opportunity for a rewarding experience for students by providing accurate pre-course information, outstanding student service, a welcoming atmosphere, quality programming, and incorporation of student feedback.
• Support student discipline and separations, including intervention and family contact.
• Assure high-quality supervision for field faculty through effective training, accurate briefings and debriefings, honest growth-oriented evaluations, and responsiveness to feedback.
• Liaise with government land agencies and maintain strong relationships with land managers to ensure operational compliance, including acquisition of permits to align with our course mix offerings.
• Stay up-to-date on public policy and current challenges that could impact River Base operating areas.
• Responsible for all on-site risk management oversight, including field safety reports and evacuation supervision.
• Assure compliance with Utah laws and business procedures.
• Oversee over $500,000 in expenses per year.
• Lead wilderness expeditions and fill field staffing gaps as a qualified NOLS instructor.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available at a special NOLS rate to seasonal employees.
• Full-time employees are eligible for a benefits package.
• Accrued leave that may be used for many HR-approved reasons throughout the season.
• Access to counselors that are available 24/7 to assist employees with work-life balance concerns.
• Fantastic employee discounts on top outdoor gear brands.
• Discounts on NOLS Courses for you and your family.
• Free outdoor equipment rental at our various locations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree