Minnesota’s northern forests are truly a place for curiosity, discovery and exploration. Since 1973, Widjiwagan has combined environmental education with experiential learning to introduce school groups from 10 to 90 students to the magic and wonder of the north. 

The Outdoor Learning Program Director is responsible for the overall leadership and execution of Widjiwagan’s Outdoor Learning Program, which runs through the fall, winter, and spring seasons. This position also supports the Summer Wilderness Tripping Program, which operates May through August.

Responsibilities of the Program Director position include:

• Communicating and scheduling with school groups and organizations for 3-5 day experiences, and weekend programs September through May.
• Managing the revenue and expenses associated with the Outdoor Learning Program.
• Managing and developing a curriculum of activities and presentations with a focus on northwoods ecology, geology, outdoor recreation, and team building.
• Hiring, training, and supervising 12-16 seasonal Instructors.
• Supervision of Widjiwagan’s Kitchen and Kitchen Manager.
• Support of Summer Wilderness Tripping program through staff training, trip debriefs, on call and incident response, and other administrative functions.

1.  Job Summary:

The Camp Program Director is responsible for developing and coordinating all programs, conferences, and retreats offered at the camp.  The incumbent develops plans in consultation with the Camp Executive Director to develop and market all programs and facilities offered at the camp on a year-around basis.  The Camp Program Director also ensures the highest quality in camp programs, including summer and fall-winter-spring programs.

 2.  Essential Functions:

• Develops and implements marketing and promotion plan recruiting Fall-Winter-Spring groups.
• Develops and implements new and existing programs.
• Works with the Camp Executive Director, Board of Directors, and respective committees to ensure high quality programs and sound facilities.
• Develops system for on-going evaluation and review of programs in conjunction with user groups and individuals.
• Routinely inspects and replaces all program area equipment as needed.
• Manages all camp sponsored programs to meet annual budget and enrollment goals.
• Maintains accurate statistical records and necessary reports.
• Shares and participates as a member of the YMCA of the North Program and Professional staff assisting with the Annual Campaign, Program Cabinet, United Way, etc.
• Assists with the operation of the camp in other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

3.  Relationships:

This position reports to the Camp Executive Director who reports to the Vice President. The incumbent interacts regularly with all camp staff, volunteers, camp program participants, and policy volunteers.  The Program Director plays an active role in the following committees: program, outreach, and annual campaign.  The incumbent is responsible for supervising the seasonal program staff.  The Program Director works very closely with the Executive Director in planning and implementing the summer program.  This position represents the camp to the local community in regular ways as he/she relates the program and mission of the camp to a variety of potential participants of the camp.

 4.  Qualifications:

Required:

• Minimum of three (3) years camp or related experience.
• Minimum of one (1) camp season of supervisory experience.
• Relevant previous experience in developing, implementing, administering camp or youth programs.
• Ability to demonstrate considerable skill and experience in program leadership and management.
• Experienced in Outdoor living skills, first aid, and emergency skills.
• Demonstrated skills in group process, and the ability to recruit, train and supervise staff and volunteers.
• Must have a personal philosophy compatible with the purpose and mission of the YMCA.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Multilingual
• Ability to pass a drivers road test for YMCA vehicles and trailers.
• Upon hire, completion of YMCA provided Motor Vehicle and or Department of Transportation Insurance Training.

 5.  Work Conditions:

• Must be capable of carrying loads of up to 90 pounds and able to traverse hilly and uneven terrain without undue exertion.
• Work at heights up to 30 feet for extended periods of time 1-2 times a week on average.
• Work in conditions that will create dirt and dust.
• Perform essential program support to camp activities and programs which may include, but not limited to the following activities: semi – reaching to full-reach overhead, crouching, kneeling, shoveling, working in narrow and/or confining spaces underground, overhead, and at ground level, twisting of the waist, shoulders, and legs, and lying on stomach and/or back.
• Ability to perform tasks outdoor in different climate.

 6.  Additional Notes:

This job description represents the major functions of the position but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent is also responsible for taking direction from the Camp Executive Director and Vice President or their representatives in completing projects or performing duties deemed necessary for the branch or Association success.