The Director of Programs (DP) will develop, implement, direct, and evaluate the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) education, camp, conservation, and exhibit programs. The position exercises a working knowledge of technology specific to perform the job including MS Office and Event/Registration software.
The ability to multi-task is essential and excellent independent work skills are required. The DP is responsible for program/project logistics, volunteer management, program/project -specific fund development, and program/project monitoring and evaluation. A good attitude about working outdoors in a variety of conditions and the ability to lift at least 50lbs are essential. The position will work with their employees, peer teams, and volunteers to develop/implement standard operating procedures within their departments.
The position must demonstrate the ability to interact professionally with the public, board of directors, MDC staff and volunteers. The individual must be a good team player and be willing to assist in other departments. The ability to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization is essential. The position is expected to participate in most special events and fundraising activities. The DP must be able to work independently, with limited supervision.
Position Responsibilities
The DP will work with staff and volunteers to delegate roles and responsibilities. To be successful in the role, the DP will create a strong culture of communication, teamwork, and a collaborative working relationship. This includes responding to staff and volunteers in a timely manner, assisting with planning and executing training events, communicating expectations and responsibilities, handling all incidents or accidents involving MDC Program staff, volunteers, and/or program participants, maintaining a positive environment, and managing programs/projects to achieve project goals efficiently.
In addition, the DP will also work with the executive director and other organizational leaders to evaluate and grow the earned revenue programs at MDC. These include enhancing and expanding existing programs/projects and developing new programs/projects that serve the mission and generate revenue. In addition, the DP will work with the executive director and other organizational leaders to generate funds through grants and development efforts that help support non-revenue generating programs/projects.
The DP will also develop, implement, direct, and evaluate the programs listed below. The scope and priority of this list may change based on organizational needs.
Education/Training
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or Education preferred or five years of work-related experience as an equivalent
- A background in K-12 education in either a classroom or an informal environmental education setting is preferred, but not required.
- Computer Skills: Microsoft Office Suite, Registration/Database management software
Interpersonal Skills
- Must have excellent interpersonal, communication and organization skills to interact professionally with the public, MDC Board of Directors, MDC staff, and volunteers.
- Must be a good team player and able to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization.
- Must demonstrate excellent initiative, creativity, problem-solving and independent work skills.
- Must have a positive attitude, enjoyment of the outdoors, customer service experience, and an ability to deliver environmental education programs to both children and adults.
Physical Requirements
- Sufficient strength and mobility to move about the facility and grounds, on and off boats
- Assist students, volunteers, and guests
- Move educational equipment (lift at least 50 lbs.)
- Corrected vision and hearing in the normal range
- This position requires both field and office tasks, therefore the applicant must be able to work in an estuarine environment including wading in water, walking on trails and kayaking. The individual must be able to work in sometimes adverse conditions that include rain, heat, insects, etc.
