The Program Director is responsible for the development and oversight of environmental education programs and services at the Montana Natural History Center. This position oversees each of the program coordinators and works closely with the Executive Director and Development Director to provide organizational management and ensure mission success.

Specific Responsibilities:

Instructional Programs and Services:

• Manages the creation and implementation of environmental education programs in accordance with MNHC’s mission
• Oversees implementation and planning of indoor and outdoor educational exhibits and interpretive displays at the center and other locations
• Hires, trains, manages and evaluates program staff in use of curriculum, instruction, implementation of programs, events and services, and other related activities
• Reviews and develops instructional strategies, methods and materials
• Leads development of overall program goals, objectives and content
• Facilitates internal and external evaluations to continuously improve and expand programs and organization
•  Develops organizational and staffing approaches to improve program impact on target audiences
• Oversees purchasing and maintenance of equipment and supplies for programs
• Manages, submits and maintains land use permits for all programs

Program Development:

• Identifies and communicates future programming needs to management team and the board of directors
• Develops and implements initiatives to meet organizational strategic planning goals
• Staffs and leads MNHC Program Committee efforts and planning
• Researches and writes grants in support of MNHC programs, facilities, exhibits, and projects
• Ensures program attendance and enrollment strategy
• Provides leadership in the development of programs and projects, including education gardens and exhibits
• Determines fiscal needs to support programs
• Strategizes fundraising and marketing activities to support programming

Program Operations and Management:

• Monitors and implements all contracts for programs and program development
• Develops and supervises risk management and reporting guidelines and procedures, including, but not limited to health, safety and equipment
• Collaborates with program staff, Executive Director, Development Director and Accounting Specialist to develop annual program and operating budget
• Monitors program budgets and reports to Executive Director
• Manages and develops grant budgets and grant reporting
• Develops an annual schedule of programs and manages its implementation
• Oversees staff professional development activities Acts as a curriculum resource specialist and liaison to schools and community
• Promotes programs by overseeing development of promotional materials and making presentations to schools and community groups 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of educational/nonprofit organizations and their programs
• Knowledge of curriculum and program development, interdisciplinary educational practices, and effective instructional strategies
• Knowledge of principles and practices of effective management, personnel development, and program evaluation
• Ability to plan, develop and manage educational programs
• Skill in training program staff and instructors and other program personnel
• Skill in negotiating,  implementing and monitoring contracts and agreements
• Proven ability to work cooperatively with other organizations and agencies
• Proven ability to write grant applications

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years of experience as program or education director in similar setting
• Proven track record in creating, coordinating and managing environmental education programs and exhibits
• Master’s degree or Bachelor’s and equivalent experience
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and proven organizational skills
• Highly skilled at selecting, training and managing program staff
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends
• Valid Montana driver’s license
• Personal vehicle for work related travel

Reporting Relationships:

• Reports to Executive Director
• Manages Program Staff

Additional Information

Benefits Package Eligibility: Health insurance available immediately, paid leave and holidays accrual after six month probationary period, access to training opportunities within the Montana Natural History Center including discounts on programming, access to Montana Master Naturalist Certification and National Association for Interpretation Certified Guide Certification

Schedule: 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday with some evening and weekend work expected based on program schedule