Twin Cities Center Program Manager

Voyageur Outward Bound School•Saint Paul, MN

6d•$41,000 - $53,500•Onsite

About The Position

Voyageur Outward Bound School (VOBS) has been transforming lives through challenge and discovery since 1964. As one of nine national not-for-profit Outward Bound Schools, VOBS provides wilderness and near-wilderness experiences to help youth and adults find belonging, strength, and purpose. VOBS operates at two locations: Homeplace in Ely, MN, and the Twin Cities Center (TCC) in Saint Paul, MN. VOBS is a charter of Outward Bound USA, a leader in experiential and outdoor education for all ages, impacting thousands of students annually in Minnesota and beyond. Our vision is to cultivate more compassionate and resilient individuals, contributing to a more compassionate and resilient world. VOBS is committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), actively working to enhance DEI in its operations and program delivery. The Twin Cities Program Manager (TCPM) is essential for the successful execution of impactful and inclusive programs at the TCC. Reporting to and collaborating with the Twin Cities Program Director (TCPD), the TCPM oversees program operations to achieve high-quality social-emotional learning outcomes and leadership development for students. The TCC offers two main program types: Day Programs (INSIGHT), which are single or multi-day series for students in the Twin Cities metro area, and Expedition Programs, which are 6-7 day immersive experiences near the Twin Cities or Duluth. With a strong focus on serving diverse communities and students in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, the TCPM ensures programs are safe, inclusive, student-centered, and aligned with VOBS' mission, vision, and organizational goals. This role demands strategic collaboration, exceptional organizational skills, and a deep passion for impactful outdoor education.

Requirements

Knowledge of Outward Bound educational approach and programs, ideally with direct experience working with students and staff.
Ability to design, implement, and supervise training and programs towards learning outcomes.
Demonstrated knowledge, sensitivity, and cultural fluency to work with diverse individuals and communities.
Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize simultaneous projects.
One or more years of supervisory experience, including demonstrated mentorship and coaching skills.
Ability to model emotional intelligence, compassion, and effective conflict resolution with co-workers.
Effective communication and organizational skills, with strong attention to detail.
Demonstrated technical skills in common TC program environments such as canoeing, rock climbing, multi-day backpacking, orienteering, and cross-country skiing.
Ability to manage program area rock climbing sites, including piece placement at a consistently used site.
Proficient computer/software skills or ability to learn quickly (Google Suite, Salesforce, etc.).
Maintains a motor vehicle record within OBUSA policies and procedures.
Ability to drive a 15-passenger vehicle with a trailer in all seasons.
Ability to work a non-standard, flexible schedule as training and program schedule demands, including rotation of on-call responsibilities.
Ability to travel to all VOBS program locations as needed.
Ability to work a varied and flexible schedule including weekends.
Ability to engage in moderate to vigorous physical activities such as running, swimming, backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, and cross-country skiing, with or without reasonable accommodations.
Capacity to spend extended periods in the field (up to 7 days) for training, field observations, or course instruction as needed.
Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds regularly and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Capability to sit or stand at a desk or computer for prolonged periods, 50% or more of the time.
Must be able to participate in all site and course activities and maintain ample energy, strength, and focus to aid students and instructors, with or without reasonable accommodations.
Potential to be on one’s feet some days – sometimes for up to 10+ hours a day, or possibly more in the case of an emergency.
Ability to work in various outdoor weather conditions, including inclement weather.
Ability to perform activities such as lifting, crawling, bending, carrying, and pulling, with or without reasonable accommodations.
Current Water Safety or Swift Water Rescue certification and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification or able to obtain upon hire.

Nice To Haves

3-5 years’ experience in outdoor/experiential education, youth development, or a similar educational field.

Responsibilities

Assist in TCC program administration, including pre-program planning, logistics, and managing post-course processes like evaluations, debriefs, and wrap-ups.
Collaborate with and support the TCC PD to ensure program design and delivery align with partner goals and VOBS standards.
Work with internal stakeholders (VOBS Program, Safety, Student Services, Partnership) to ensure program, outreach, and enrollment practices are safe, relevant, inclusive, and effective.
Serve as Course Director for all program types, including INSIGHT programming and Expeditions, and instruct courses as needed.
Develop and design curriculum tailored to varying course types, lengths, group sizes, and partner needs.
Support TCC PD in data collection efforts, using insights to guide program development and strengthen partner communication.
Utilize software tools (e.g., Egnyte, Salesforce, Flickr) for effective tracking and reporting of course and student data.
Manage program partner relationships for INSIGHT and Expedition programming, ensuring timely and effective communication, including facilitating check-ins and pre/post meetings.
Collaborate with the Engagement Coordinator to promote student interest, manage program details, and provide ongoing support.
Coordinate with Student Services to optimize student involvement, including medical screenings and course advising.
Ensure partners receive all required enrollment documents in alignment with Student Services procedures.
Oversee efficient enrollment and engagement processes by reviewing pre- and post-course materials and recommending updates.
Represent VOBS by attending and leading events as needed.
Promote field staff development through training, evaluation, and supervision, in conjunction with the TCC Program Director.
Develop and deliver regular staff training focused on individual, technical, and educational skills.
Improve training resources and documentation as directed by the TCC PD.
Attend professional development opportunities as required.
Help drive and maintain a supportive educational environment for partners, staff, and students.
Foster a positive culture within the TC office and in the field.
Ensure adherence to VOBS policies and procedures related to course delivery.
Elevate concerns to the TCC PD or Safety Director as needed.
Serve as a primary member of the On-Call and Response team for field communication and emergencies, including evacuations.
Perform other duties as assigned.