Operations Manager

Position Summary

The Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role in overseeing the development, staffing, and overall operations of all National Outdoor Learning Alliance (NOLA) programs. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Operations Manager collaborates closely with the Leadership Team, including the School Director and Development Director, to shape the direction of NOLA’s mission. This position ensures the smooth and effective execution of high-quality educational programming that aligns with the values and philosophies of the organization.

Primary Responsibilities

Program Management

  • Partner with the Executive Director to develop and expand NOLA’s educational services programming in the Treasure Valley.

  • Manage key customer accounts, ensuring that all programs are delivered in accordance with contractual agreements.

  • Oversee seasonal programs, including Summer Camps, afterschool programs, and school break camps. This includes hiring, people management, family outreach, and registration.

  • Continuously evaluate existing programs for improvements and operational efficiencies.

  • Collaborate with the Development Director to implement and manage grant-funded programs.

Human Resources & People Operations

  • Lead EverWild Forest School’s team of educators, overseeing the day-to-day people management and the full employee lifecycle: recruitment, hiring, training, people management, conflict resolution, performance evaluation, off-boarding.

  • Conduct on-site observations and performance reviews for all educators.

  • Substitute and join teachers as support-staff on site occasionally

  • Develop and implement Performance Improvement Plans (PIP) when necessary.

  • Collaborate with the Leadership Team to refine internal procedures, policies, and optimize workflows.

  • Assist in the development, writing, and distribution of internal training materials, policies, and procedures.

  • Manage NOLA’s HRIS system (Gusto) to ensure payroll accuracy and compliance.

  • Stay current on best practices for risk management, safety protocols, and emergency preparedness.

  • Coordinate and track professional development opportunities for staff.

  • Assist in organizing and leading quarterly staff meetings.

  • Oversee internship hiring and management.

  • Maintain a robust volunteer pool to support operations.

Supplies & Material Management

  • Oversee the procurement and management of supplies and materials required for programming.

  • Conduct needs assessments for supplies and materials.

  • Order, organize, and distribute supplies to educators and staff.

  • Ensure the Supply Trailer is properly organized and secure.

Outreach

  • Collaborate with the leadership team and Digital Marketing specialist to support branding, marketing, and the strategic growth plan for both NOLA and EverWild Forest School.

  • Assist with outreach to procure partnerships and program opportunities in the area

  • Identify opportunities for NOLA/EverWild to participate in community-based events to increase awareness and support of our programs.

  • Build upon NOLA's membership program and help with communication and engagement

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Business Administration, or a related field; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

  • 3-5 years of experience in program management, preferably in the field of outdoor or experiential education.

  • Proven leadership experience with teams of diverse individuals, including educators, support staff, and volunteers.

  • Strong understanding of HR practices, including employee management, conflict resolution, and performance evaluation.

  • Proficiency in HRIS systems (experience with Gusto is a plus), G-Suite, Canva, and Hubspot

  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate and improve program quality and operational processes.

  • Experience in risk management and emergency preparedness, particularly in outdoor or educational settings.

  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.

  • Knowledge of grant management and experience in implementing grant-funded programs is a plus.

  • Commitment to the values of outdoor education, environmental stewardship, and the mission of NOLA.

Benefits

  • Annual salary: $50,000 - $55,000

  • Employer-matched 403(b) contribution plan

  • Health insurance stipend

  • Generous paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays

  • Opportunities for professional development and training

  • A supportive, mission-driven work environment focused on outdoor education and community engagement

Physical Requirements:

  • Be able to hike on uneven terrain, lift and carry equipment, and participate in outdoor activities in varying weather conditions

  • Be able to lift a minimum of 35 lbs

  • Stamina and energy to engage in active outdoor pursuits for extended periods.

  • Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.

  • Ability to attend occasional weekend/after-hours events

Equipment Requirements:

  • A cell phone to make occasional calls to EverWild staff and enrolled families; and with ability to download our parent-communication app and be used during class time

  • Access to a laptop/computer with internet for occasional job-related use including virtual meetings

  • An active email address to receive internal communications

  • Reliable transportation to travel onsite in Eagle and Boise, on-time and in all types of weather

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to taylor@everwildforestschool.org.

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive. Duties may be modified, added, or reassigned based on camp needs and staffing requirements.

At the National Outdoor Learning Alliance (NOLA), we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to fulfilling our mission in making the outdoors an accessible place for all. We are committed to fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other dimension of diversity, feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

We recognize that diversity enriches our perspectives and enhances our ability to understand how to create an inclusive program for all demographics. We are dedicated to building a team that reflects the communities we serve and creating equitable opportunities for all employees to thrive and grow.

We actively seek to attract, retain, and develop talent from diverse backgrounds, and we strive to create inclusive processes and policies that promote fairness and eliminate barriers to success. We are committed to ongoing education, training, and dialogue to deepen our understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and to continuously improve our practices. We invite individuals who share our commitment to DEI to join us at NOLA.