Loading...

High Sierra Program Manager

Outward Bound California

Midpines, California

Job Type Temporary
Salary $3,900 - $4,200 per month
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

Bring your love for the outdoors and community building to our High Sierra basecamp! As a Program Manager, you'll work alongside our tight-knit admin team to support the day-to-day program management of our wilderness backpack & rock climbing programs. The Program Manager is a role model and mentor within the High Sierra community, providing daily leadership, administrative support, and management of the High Sierra basecamp and programming. Responsibilities include overseeing programs and training, supervising and mentoring staff, facilitating community building, and some administrative duties. The Program Manager reports to the High Sierra Program Director and works in collaboration with other High Sierra Program Admin Staff. 

Compensation & Schedule

  • This is an exempt, salaried position of approximately 6 months of full-time work (approximately April 1st - Sept 30th). There may be an option to work a shorter contract of 4.5 months, April 1st-August 15th.
  • Monthly salary range is from $3900-$4200, depending on experience.

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. 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.

RequirementsCertification & License Requirements

  • Current WFR/CPR/CA Epi Auto-Injector certification. 
  • Have had a valid US or Canadian driver’s license for at least 3 years.

Onboarding Requirements

  • 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 Program 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. Supervise, mentor, and develop staff.
  • Ensure course quality aligns with OBCA mission.
  • Maintain 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