High Sierra Program Manager

Outward Bound California•Midpines, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Program Manager provides daily leadership, administrative support, and management of Outward Bound California’s High Sierra basecamp and wilderness backpacking and rock climbing programs. Working alongside a close-knit administrative team, this role oversees programs and training, supervises and mentors staff, supports community building, and handles administrative duties. The position reports to the High Sierra Program Director and collaborates with other High Sierra Program Admin Staff. This is an exempt, salaried seasonal position of approximately six months of full-time work, approximately April 1 through September 30. An alternative shorter contract of approximately 4.5 months, April 1 through August 15, may be available. The monthly salary range is $3,900–$4,200, depending on experience. The position is based at the High Sierra program in Midpines, California, in the Sierra Nevada foothills about 30 miles west of Yosemite National Park, at approximately 2,500 feet elevation. The basecamp includes an office, program gear storage sheds, a commercial kitchen, and weatherport living quarters. Rustic housing with communal bathrooms and a kitchen is provided, as is food during the program season. Trips take place in locations including Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sierra National Forest, and Yosemite National Park. High summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F. Outward Bound California uses challenging outdoor experiences to teach social-emotional skills such as teamwork, leadership, and compassionate communication. Its programs serve participants ages 12 and older, including adults and veterans, and the organization is committed to expanding access and fostering equity and belonging in outdoor spaces.

Requirements

Passion for Outward Bound’s mission, programs, and course activities.
Deep understanding of and personal commitment to equity and inclusion in the outdoors, with the ability to mentor staff on these topics.
Lived experience or experience working with the organization’s learners, including people from diverse backgrounds.
Proficiency with computers, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office.
Proficiency in backpacking in alpine environments.
Experience with Outward Bound or other wilderness expeditionary programs, such as a multi-day NOLS course or equivalent.
Three to five years of experience in outdoor education or experiential learning, a bachelor’s degree, and/or a similar combination of education and experience.
Ability to participate in vigorous to moderate physical activity, including running and backpacking.
Ability to lift and move at least 40 pounds and carry a pack weighing 25–35% of body weight.
Comfort sitting or standing at a desk or computer for 80% or more of the time.
Ability to maintain composure, use sound judgment and decision-making, and assess and mitigate risk under stress.
By the start date, hold current Wilderness First Responder, CPR, and California Epinephrine certifications.
Have held a valid U.S. or Canadian driver’s license for at least three years.
Be at least 21 years of age.
Be willing to authorize federal and Live Scan background checks and an MVR check, and provide negative TB screen or test results from within the last four years upon hire.

Responsibilities

Support High Sierra facility needs in coordination with the Program Team, including basecamp opening and closing, general maintenance, and community gatherings.
Model best practices in the community and workplace and serve as a mentor and role model.
Oversee staff mentorship, promotion, and development in technical, educational, and interpersonal skills.
Support critical incident responses and the on-call system, which may involve after-hours work or scheduled time off.
Ensure accurate and complete incident reporting for all courses.
Create safety briefing content and delivery methods in coordination with the Program Team.
Uphold Outward Bound’s zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and neglect and help protect minor students.
Coordinate collection, completion, and filing of course paperwork, and update forms as needed.
Ensure proper recording of financial transactions, including gear store and petty cash transactions.
Fulfill program oversight duties throughout the season in coordination with the Program Team, including maintenance and tracking of course materials.

Benefits

Rustic housing with access to communal bathrooms and a kitchen.
Food provided during the program season.
Health insurance with employer contribution.
Up to 20 days of paid time off.
11 annual holidays.
Long-term disability insurance.
Life insurance.
Accident insurance.
Health or Flexible Spending Account.
Employee Assistance Plan, available after 30 days of full-time employment.
401(k) plan enrollment available one year from the start date.
Reimbursement for recertification of required certifications and paid training time.
Pro Deals offering discounted outdoor gear purchases.