Program Director • Job Description 2026:
Rite of Passage Journeys (RoPJ) has been guiding youth, adults and elders through life transitions, restoring rites of passage and building multi-generational communities for over 50  years. The RoPJ Program Director oversees the organization’s programs, including backcountry and basecamp summer programs, leadership training, community programs and school programs. As Program Director, you will play a pivotal role in the success of the organization,
reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Administration & Community Outreach (A&CO) Manager, Seasonal Basecamp Manager, Interns and Board of Directors. Your responsibilities encompass all facets of program development and delivery.

This is a salaried, non-exempt position eligible for overtime pay as approved by the Executive Director. In the summer, the position can require irregular hours. During the rest of the year, some irregular hours may apply.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver High-Quality Programs:

● Recruit, hire, train and supervise exceptional program staff.
● Co-facilitate Severance and Incorporation Ceremonies for Rite of Passage programs, as well as other aspects of programming as needed.
● Design and coordinate basecamp schedules, including parent circles, elder councils and all other aspects of the program.
● Establish and maintain procedures related to program logistics, including transportation, itineraries, permits, food, gear, supplies, paperwork, and facilities in coordination with other members of the administrative team.
● Co-design School and Community Programs aligned with the organizational mission.
● Deliver ongoing assessment and co-development of risk management policies with the Executive Director and Risk Management Committee. Lead implementation of risk management practices.
● Oversee registration and participant screening systems in coordination with the A&CO Manager.
● Collaborate in utilizing technology resources, including online registration systems, data management systems, and business software.
● Guide refinement of Program systems and documentation to accurately represent the evolving objectives of Journeys.

Maintain and Develop Curriculum:

● Continuously refine program offerings and curriculum.
● Collaborate closely with core program staff, including advisory council(s).
● Develop and implement systems for evaluating program quality and staff performance, integrating improvements as needed.
● Facilitate program staff feedback sessions.
● Create and manage a staff manual and curriculum resources.
● Supervise contract and custom programs, developing curriculum and ensuring exceptional program delivery.
● Foster the development of new programming as appropriate.

Champion Programs through Outreach & Marketing:

● Create and distribute compelling print and online materials to market programs.
● Enhance Journeys' brand as a central hub for Rite of Passage programs, knowledge, and training.
● Establish and maintain connections with Journeys’ professional networks and partner organizations.
● Strategically cultivate and expand our community of supporters to amplify Journeys’ mission and programs.

Additional Roles and Responsibilities:

● Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop and manage program budgets.
● Assist with the registration process by managing higher-level communications with participants and families.
● Help coordinate duties for Seasonal Basecamp Manager, intern, floating logistics/guide role and volunteers.
● Collaborate with the team for maintenance of Journeys’ Basecamp, working closely with the Executive Director, A&CO Manager, Seasonal Basecamp Manager and volunteers.  Ensure optimal functionality of office space and Basecamp systems, contributing to a productive work environment.
● Contribute to research, care and purchase of gear, food and vans.
● Synthesize input from staff, board of directors, and stakeholders to create cohesive and impactful organizational statements through monthly board reports and marketing initiatives.
● Represent Journeys positively to participants, parents, partner organizations, and the public.
● Develop and communicate standards for guides to uphold in embodying Journeys' values both in the world and online.
● Other duties as needed within our small but mighty team.

Requirements:
● Minimum age of 21.
● Physically capable of participating in Journeys’ activities.
● Successful completion of a criminal background check.
● Satisfactory driving record.

Desired Qualifications:

● Four or more years of outdoor program management experience with a professional interest in at least one of the following areas: working with youth in a therapeutic or educational environment or working in rites of passage/vision fast work.
● Experience in leading wilderness expeditions and expertise in best practices for wilderness travel.
● Competency in risk management, crisis response, and conflict resolution.
● Current Wilderness First Responder Certification preferred; can work to pursue certification after hiring.
● Exceptional facilitation skills for working with youth and adults.
● Outstanding interpersonal communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
● Experience in developing and delivering staff training.
● Demonstrated experience fostering equitable and inclusive environments that are responsive to people’s needs, interests, identities, and lived experiences; commitment to creating just policies, systems, and programs.

Desired Personal Capacities:
● A passion for empowering resiliency and resourcing for the next generation and their families.
● Confident and compassionate leadership skills.
● Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
● Willingness to engage in and facilitate deep, soulful inquiry.
● Ability to balance big-picture thinking with attention to detail.
● Skilled in managing people in a supportive manner.
● Self-awareness and the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
● Good communication with a team in a busy, multi-faceted work environment.
● Ability to self-motivate and move towards goals in a timely manner.
● Commitment to personal development and an openness to learning and growth.
● Flexibility and a good sense of humor!

Location:
● Must be based in the greater Seattle metro area.
● Available to work in person at Basecamp in Bothell, WA, for June-August.
● Hybrid work for September-May.
● Wilderness Programs take place in the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. Occasional travel to these locations may be required.

Join us in creating transformative experiences at Rite of Passage Journeys!

Rite of Passage Journeys does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, butbare not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of  services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors and clients.