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High Sierra Associate Program Director

Outward Bound California

Midpines, California

Job Type Permanent
Salary $55700 - $57,500/year full time equivalent, paid at a 75% FTE rate across the year (based on 100% work during the program season and 50% off-season)
Deadline Jan 15, 2027
Min. Experience 2 - 4 years

OBCA strives to create an equitable and inclusive culture where our staff feel respected for their identities and lived experiences. We are looking for team members who can actively join us in the process of furthering our vision for equity and belonging.

Position Description

The Associate Program Director is an integral part of the High Sierra management team and overall day-to-day wilderness program management. The Associate Program Director works to provide daily leadership, administrative support and management of the High Sierra basecamp, oversight of our 45+ expedition and logistical staff, and associated programming. Responsibilities include course supervision and ensuring quality training, programming, community building and some aspects of business management. The Associate Program Director reports to the High Sierra Program Director.

Compensation & Schedule

  • This is an exempt, full-time, salaried position
  • Salary range is $55700 - $57,500/year full time equivalent, depending on experience. The Associate Program Director is paid at a 75% FTE rate across the year (based on 100% work during the program season and 50% off-season)
  • During the program season (April 1 - Sept 30th), this position works full-time. During our off season (Oct 1 - March 31), this position works approx. 2.5 days/week, remote with Wi-Fi
  • The anticipated start date is March 1st.

Benefits

  • Rustic housing is provided with access to communal bathrooms and kitchen. Food is also provided during the program season.
  • OBCA offers health insurance with employer contribution, up to 20 days PTO & 11 annual holidays, long-term disability and life insurance, Accident insurance, Health or Flexible Spending Account, and an Employee Assistance Plan, available after 30 days of full-time employment.
  • 401(k) plan enrollment is available 1 year from start date.
  • Required certifications (ex. WFR/First Aid Training) are eligible for recertification reimbursement and paid training time
  • Pro Deals (the opportunity to purchase outdoor gear at discounted rates).

Location

This position is located at our High Sierra program in Midpines, California during the program season and is remote the rest of the year (permanent address in UT, CA, OR for remote work). The basecamp is in the Sierra Nevada foothills about 30 miles west of Yosemite National Park, at an elevation of about 2500’. High summer temperatures are frequently 100+ degrees Fahrenheit. The basecamp has a main building with an office, program gear storage sheds, a commercial kitchen, and weatherport living quarters (durable fabric structures). Trips generally take place in a variety of locations within Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Sierra National Forest, and Yosemite National Park.

Who We Are

At Outward Bound California (OBCA) we use challenging outdoor experiences to teach social-emotional skills like teamwork, leadership, and compassionate communication. We offer a wide range of programs, including high/low ropes activities at our San Francisco Challenge Course and multi-day rock climbing/backpacking trips in the High Sierra and Joshua Tree. Our programs encourage our participants (ages 12+, including adults and veterans) to embrace challenges and reflect on how they want to contribute to their communities and the world. Check out what our staff and students have to say about our High Sierra programs in this video.

Requirements

  • Current WFR/CPR/CA Epi Auto-Injector certification. 
  • Have had a valid US or Canadian driver’s license for at least 3 years.
  • Able to pass a federal & Live Scan background check, MVR check, and provide current (within the last 4 years) negative TB screen or test results upon hire (cost of all screening paid for or reimbursed by OBCA).

Responsibilities

  • Program Leadership, Safety & Risk Management, Site Support, and Business Management.
  • Collaborate as a member of the High Sierra management team to determine and fulfill program needs, goals and strategies.
  • Support in critical incident responses & on-call system, which may require after work hours and happen during scheduled time off. There are times where the Associate Program Director will be the local Incident Commander in case of emergency.
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop staff.
  • Ensure course quality aligns with OBCA mission.
  • Oversee feedback system, incident reporting and course paperwork.
  • Participate in basecamp activities, community events, and chores.
  • Uphold Outward Bound’s zero-tolerance policy for incidents of child abuse and neglect. Protecting our minor students against abuse and neglect is of the highest priority
  • Participate in other duties as assigned - for the full job description click here

Outward Bound California is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Outward Bound California also promotes respect for all people, and will not tolerate harassment based on any of these characteristics.

How To Apply

Apply for all open positions here!

Outward Bound California recognizes that people holding certain identities often face barriers to access the training and skills in the job description. We encourage folks to apply even if they do not meet every qualification listed above.

Application Instructions

  • Application closes January 15 
  • Include a resume and cover letter in your application
  • There will be one equity based short answer question in the application

Apply for all open positions here!

When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.

Category Admin & Leadership , Outdoor Recreation