Summer Program Coordinator

We are an internationally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to providing transformational and educational experiences that deepen connections with nature and human communities. Our fun, down-to-earth, all-ages nature school is seeking a full-time Program Coordinator. This is a salaried role and requires occasional work in the evenings and weekends – more so in the 11-week summer season.

Position Overview

The Summer Program Coordinator supports our Summer Programs through both administrative tasks and in-the-field supervision. This role involves working throughout the year to support our extensive Summer Camp offerings. Key roles include volunteer management, recruiting seasonal staff, and supporting and training staff in a variety of ways to run high-quality programs.

Key Responsibilities

Administrative Roles

Manage administrative tasks for Summer Camp under the direction of the Summer Program Manager. 

This includes:

  • Volunteer management and training for summer camp programs.
  • Manage multiple project management software programs for recruitment, operations and training
  • Coordinating with instructors, the Registrar, and the Marketing department to ensure updated program details and curriculum are accurate for students and parents. 
  • Attending in-person and virtual Booth Events for summer and volunteer recruitment. 
  • Developing new curriculum, and preparing for summer registration launches .and updating current programs to maintain relevance and value.
  • Taking a leadership role during Summer Staff Training and preparing meeting agendas and administrative duties.
  • Assisting in recruitment for summer seasonal staff, including scheduling interviews.
  • Serving as Program Coordinator/Camp Director for Summer Camps, managing staff, volunteers, interns, and customer service responses.

In-The-Field Coordination 

  • Provide in-person field support to seasonal staff during the summer.
  • Use a call-routing system to handle texts, calls, and voicemails from Camp Directors, referring issues to the Summer Program Manager as needed.
  • Addressing challenging conversations with parents regarding camper behavior, illness, refund policies, etc.
  • Updating the Program Coordinator Handoff document to track program details, incidents, and more.
  • Transporting gear and paperwork to various park locations as needed.
  • Supporting and mentoring field staff, and relaying feedback to the Summer Program Manager.
  • Participating in camp activities as a guest staff, serving as a vital link between admin and field staff.
  • Being “on-call” for designated days/hours, as agreed upon by the Summer Support Team.

Ideal Education and Experience:

  • Experience coordinating and mentoring youth and adults.
  • Experience in 8 Shields Nature Connection and Coyote Mentoring (preferred).
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of training and experience (preferred).
  • Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification (required; able to obtain after being hired).

Key Competencies:

  • Strong administrative skills and tech savvy.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional project management skills, including task prioritization.
  • Active leadership in conflict resolution and problem-solving.
  • Commitment to supporting equitable and inclusive programs.
  • Outgoing, creative, and caring personality with a strong desire for professional and personal growth.
  • Passion for the natural world and personal nature connection practices.
  • Familiarity with Wilderness Awareness School’s programs and educational culture, particularly Coyote Mentoring or related 8 Shields schools.
  • Alignment with Wilderness Awareness School’s mission.
  • Computer literacy with Gmail, Google Docs & Sheets, Asana, Monday, and other cloud-based systems.
  • Physical ability to walk outdoors over rough terrain, off trail, in all kinds of weather carrying up to 25 pounds.

Compensation:

  • $50,000-55,000 full-time salaried, depending on experience
  • 5 weeks paid time off
  • Discounted or free Wilderness Awareness programs and professional training
  • Connective, community-minded workplace
  • Monthly stipend to purchase health insurance
  • 3% salary retirement plan match

Key Dates:

  • Applications Due: Nov 22
  • 1st Round of Interviews: Dec 2-6
  • Ideal Start Date: Jan 13th, 2025

How to Apply:

Complete the Employment Application Form , which includes the following:

  • Personal Information
  • References
  • Resume/CV
  • Cover letter to include:
    • Any experience with environmental education, nature connection, and/or 8 Shields curriculum.
    • Why you are an excellent candidate for this position.
    • Relevant experience with coordinating summer camps, including experience hiring and managing staff.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Wilderness Awareness School