Challenge Course Manager

Position Summary

The Challenge Course Manager coordinates all aspects of work related to Charlie’s Challenge, the Maine Seacoast Mission high and low ropes course. In addition, the position provides as-needed support for EdGE K-12 youth development and other Mission programs. Challenge course responsibilities include session facilitation, risk management, interdepartmental collaboration, scheduling, staff training, policy and procedure development, planning and budget management, assessment, equipment maintenance, curriculum development, and relationship management. In addition to Challenge Course management and facilitation, the position is also responsible for supporting activities for other programs and departments as assigned. Depending on the season, a high percentage of time may be spent in support of EdGE and other programs.

Responsibilities

Core Challenge Course Responsibilities

• Work with Mission leaders, supervisor, and other staff to develop and deliver a challenge course initiative that serves students and other program participants, staff, volunteers, corporate participants, and other community members
• Lead safe and positive challenge course experiences
• Oversee day-to-day challenge course operations
• Work with supervisor and other staff to develop and maintain challenge course curricula, activities, calendar, assessment plan, and training program
• Coordinate challenge course scheduling and activities with other Mission departments and programs, partner schools, and other constituents as required
• Work with supervisor to develop and adhere to safety and emergency response standards and procedures, conduct regular inspections, and maintain equipment to the highest standard of risk management
• Work with supervisor to manage challenge course budgets
• Advise Mission leadership regarding the strategic use and development of “Charlie’s Challenge,” the Maine Seacoast Mission challenge course

Program Support and Participation Responsibilities

• Participate in activities for other programs and departments as assigned, including all EdGE programs and activities, Service Tours, Island Services, and Community Engagement.
• Participate in EdGE and other Mission program planning, professional development, and activities as assigned based on challenge course demands and availability
• Take direction, follow program activity plans, contribute positively to group dynamics and lead when asked, and act as a positive role model for participants when actively involved in EdGE and other Mission program delivery
• Connect participants to other Mission programs and resources as appropriate
• Participate in team meetings and initiatives as assigned

As Part of Maine Seacoast Mission

• Promote and embody the Mission as a welcoming and inclusive organization, where all people are valued and respected
• Support the values and purpose of the Maine Seacoast Mission as expressed in the mission statement and other guiding documents
• Uphold the reputation of the Mission and honor the trust built over generations between the Mission and the communities with which we work
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Qualifications

Core Qualifications

• Knowledge of positive youth development, social-emotional learning, and/or mentoring-based methods and/or programs
• Ropes or challenge course training or experience
• Previous experience working with young people and/or experience teaching or facilitating
• Excellent facilitation and communication skills
• Strong leadership qualities such as delegating tasks, active listening, ability to give and receive feedback
• Strong emotional regulation skills
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to take the initiative and work independently, as well as cooperate with a team
• Ability to motivate participants and colleagues, work as part of a team, and relate to adults, teens, and younger children both in groups and individually
• Commitment to a positive and safe environment for students, participants, and fellow workers
• Desire to make a positive impact
• Compassion, competence, confidence, and creative problem solving

Required Education and Experience

• High school degree with some college experience
• Belaying experience and experience leading groups on ropes or challenge course
• Experience operating a challenge course with technical skills to perform rescues on the course
• Have obtained level 2 challenge course certification or challenge course manager certification or equivalent certification within the field

Required Qualifications and Certifications

• Current CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably related to education, leadership, recreation, tourism, or social sciences
• Experience managing a challenge course or similar personal development program
• Experience in tourism, hospitality, or other professional client services
• Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification
• Licensed Maine Guide
• Lifeguard Certification

Position Conditions and Requirements

Work Environment

• Work week schedule based on program need
• Some evenings and weekends, occasionally sleeping outdoors
• Working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Office environment for planning work

Physical Demands

• Physical ability and stamina for outdoor excursions and overnight camping trips
• Ability to move up to 50 pounds
• Ability to be comfortable traversing a ropes course, performing rescues if needed on the course and being at heights
• Ability to communicate verbally and visually to maintain safe conditions

Travel Requirements

• Drive a 15-passenger van with individuals in the vehicle
• Clean driver’s license

Compensation 

This is a full-time, exempt position based on a 40-hour work week. The salary range is $48,000 to $51,000 with excellent benefits.

To Apply

Please visit https://seacoastmission.org/employment/ or apply directly through our HR information system at https://tinyurl.com/4ax4jn47. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.