Outdoor Experience Specialist

Description

Position is Hybrid Remote

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Outdoor Experience Specialist (OES) assists in the development and delivery of all Outdoor Experience programs including fall and spring weekend programs and overnight summer camp programs. This position serves as Assistant Camp Director for overnight summer camp programs and is expected to live on-site for the duration of summer camp. The OES will also lead in the design and implementation of off-site and community-based outdoor programs, as well as programs occurring across our three camp properties as assigned. This position will coordinate with guests, community partners and seasonal outdoor program staff for all events they lead. The OES supports programs across all Girl Scout pillars and ensures the Girl Scout Leadership Experience is consistent throughout the council and programs are engaging, well-attended and financially sustainable.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Assist in the development and delivery of Outdoor Experience programming in the council’s jurisdiction that could include:
• Hosting volunteer-facilitated weekend programs (troop camping and service unit camporees)
• Designing and implementing council-facilitated weekend programs (Council-Wide Campout, Family Fun Day, Ski Weekend, etc.)
• Serve as Assistant Camp Director during overnight summer camp programs.
• Serve as lead on development and delivery of program activities for off-site and community-based programs during fall and spring (Girl Scouts Love State Parks, on-demand programs for troops and service units, council-facilitated programs, etc.).
• Assist with recruitment, management and retention of part-time seasonal staff.
• In partnership with all Outdoor Experience team members, provide an annual calendar of program activities designed to meet the needs of Girl Scouts and volunteers.
• Ensure all programs meet or exceed safety guidelines of GSUSA, GSCP2P and ACA.
• Serve as an expert resource for staff and volunteers on the Girl Scout Leadership Experience program model and best practices in camping and outdoor programs, staying up-to-date and informed of expansion and changes in the evolution of programs.
• Engage cross-functionally with teammates to fully support annual council membership recruitment and retention plans.
• Participate actively in developing environments that foster diversity, equity, inclusion belonging and access through words, actions and attitude. Ensure work plans are designed to enhance the diversity of our membership.
• Perform other duties as necessary or assigned.

Requirements

Core Competencies

• Outdoor Program Development
• Outdoor Program Delivery
• Problem Solving
• Project Management
• Budget Administration
• Judgment and Decision Making
• Collaboration
• Team-building and Management
• Customer Service
• Verbal and Written Communication

Qualifications

• Associate degree or bachelor’s degree in recreation, education, non-profit management or related field or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience.
•  Minimum of three seasons of demonstrated experience in youth program development and management of camp programs, including supervision of employed staff.
• Demonstrated competency in community organizing, planning, time management and problem-solving/conflict management.
• Experience in working with adult volunteers and girls, ages 5-17. Specific knowledge and expertise in growth and developmental needs of girls.
• Certification in or ability to become certified in first aid and one or more of the following: lifeguard instructor, archery instructor, boating and climbing. Training can be provided.
• Willingness and ability to work regular and varied hours, including some evenings and most weekends; extended days and hours during summer camp season.
• Willingness and ability to live on-site during the summer camp season, which may include moving between up to three camp properties.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Subscribe to the principles of the Girl Scout Movement and become and remain a registered member of GSUSA, Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont.
• Successfully pass criminal and driver background investigation.
• Minimum age 21.
•  Valid state-issued driver's license, valid auto insurance, acceptable driving record and access to a vehicle on a daily basis, and willingness and ability to travel throughout the council's geographic area.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls including the operation of computer keyboard, calculator, copier machine, and other office equipment; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; bend and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear within normal range for telephone use. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. The employee must have close visual acuity to perform activities such as viewing a computer terminal, preparing and analyzing data and figures and extensive reading.

DISCLOSURE & ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The statements above reflect the essential functions and qualifications for this job but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing. Employees may be asked to perform other duties as needed to ensure the smooth functioning of Council operations. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.