Challenge Course Program Coordinator

SUMMARY

Outward Bound is an international educational movement dedicated to the belief that people are capable of far more than they know. Founded in 1992, Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS)’s mission is to change lives through challenge and discovery.  POBS – serving PA, NJ and northern DE – is one of 10 regional Outward Bound USA schools.

A robust, non-profit educational organization, POBS annually engages more than 7,000 youth and adult participants in single and multi-day experiential education programs that inspire character development, leadership and community service. All programs are designed to inspire participants  to realize their true potential.

The Philadelphia Outward Bound Challenge Course and Facilitation Program Coordinators are responsible for the direct oversight of youth and adult program days delivered at the Program Coordinators designated site; either The Discovery Center, Wigard Ave. or offsite. 

The Program Coordinator (PC) is a supervisory position that supports the program team through leadership in instruction and training, organization, and implementation of high-quality programs to all participants. The PC is responsible for preparing the program client and educators for their program prior to arrival, coordinating prep for program staff and managing student enrollment.

Additional responsibilities include performing daily and monthly site inspections and repairs under the supervision of the Director of Program and Training. The Program Coordinator will ensure the gear, grounds and equipment are maintained. The PC will support staff, provide on the job training, ensure programs remain compliant with AEE standards and ACCT standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Planning and Outreach

• Provide outreach and assist program clients with enrollment requirements, logistics and program plans.
• Communicate directly with the client and Program Director regarding cancellations due to inclement weather, Covid-19 or other unforeseeable events after hours or before the typical workday.
• Provide outreach to staff regarding their work commitments 5-14 days prior to their prep day and make up work using email, text and When I Work software.
• Deliver weekly program prep and 60-90 minute professional development sessions.

Data Entry and Evaluation

• Conduct weekly quality checks to ensure all data entry is correct and consistent between multiple databases for all programs delivered.
• Ensure course reports, data entry and incident reports are completed for all programs are your prospective site.
• Coach all staff members on the Assistant Facilitator to Lead Facilitator progression, ensure all program days are logged and accurate.
• Communicate and notify the Staffing Manager and the Program Coordinator of Training and Curriculum when a staff member has been promoted.
• Deliver and ensure completion of OBLL surveys.

Program Site Facilities

• Ensure grounds, gear, and facilities are maintained to a high standard for program team and visitors, including indoor spaces.
• Complete daily pre-use inspections of gear and facilities.
• Ensure all facilities are locked when not in use and provided signage is visible.
• Ensure all technical gear is inventoried, clean and organized.
• Resupply medical supplies and all required paperwork and handbooks required at each site.

Discovery Center Facilities

• Coordinate with the Discovery Center Director and facilities team to ensure the program areas are clean and hazard free.
• Coordinate with POBS expedition team, Discovery Center Director, and Audubon program team to manage multiple groups using the Discovery Center at one time.
• Utilize Discovery Center space calendar to plan and prepare for multiple groups on site.

Work Experience and Certifications

• At least 2 years of Outward Bound employment or 200 hours of documented or ACCT Certified  challenge course and facilitation experience.
• At least 1 year in middle management with at least 3 employees / volunteers / work crews.
• Strong organizational skills with experience coordinating large group programs of 50-120 participants.
• Demonstrate flexibility and effective communication with program staff.
• Knowledgeable on ACCT standards and AEE accreditation requirements.
• Demonstrate ability to design 1-2 day facilitation and technical training.
• Ability to demonstrate, train and coach others on aerial rescues using the Petzl Jag.
• Experience using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and the Google Suites. Familiarity with Salesforce or When I Work a plus.
• Current basic first aid and CPR certified.

Management Experience

• Ability to work in a team environment and support POBS philosophy and mission.
• Must be a strong mentor, able to develop and coach new and return staff.
• Strong and effective communicator, both written and oral.
• Self-starter, strong initiative and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to co-manage a team of staff along with other supervisors, provide positive feedback and address performance issues with staff in a professional manner.
• Coordinate across departments to set and communicate staff expectations around timeliness, attitudes towards work, progression from apprentice to lead, and working with students.
• Ability to conduct professional and consistent interviews of new Apprentices and Assistant Instructors with the Staffing Manager.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 21 years or older.
• Ability to carry, lift and move a 40 lb ladder.
• Able to comfortably facilitate at heights up to 40 feet.

ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY

• Must procure and pass an FBI Criminal Records Check.
• Must obtain Criminal and Child Abuse clearances for Pennsylvania.
• Must possess a current and valid driver’s license.
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Record Screen (Outward Bound will process. Candidates must have a clean driving background to apply).
• Irregular work hours as necessary including the ability to work Saturday programs.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• 10 Month salary position from February 15th, 2023-December 15, 2023.
• Salary: $36,000
• Participation in POBS’ group medical and dental insurance plans.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Eligible to contribute to the POBS 401(k) plan with employer match after one year.
• 11 PTO days.
• Paid holidays.
• Participation in Outward Bound staff expeditions nationwide.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Apply online by January 31, 2023.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The Philadelphia Outward Bound School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.