Education Manager - Central

Do you have experience in supervision of a team of educators and nature programming experience? 

We are looking for a strong and strategic leader to join our team as the Central Region Education Manager! The qualified professional will oversee the growth and provide guidance in the development of private/public programs and interpretive events in our Central Region. This leader will lead a full time and part time team that will present programming at the parks in this region which include Winton Woods, Highfield Discovery Garden and Farbach Werner Nature Preserve. 

At Great Parks, our team members work together to preserve and protect natural resources and to provide outdoor recreation and education in order to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations. Be a part of an inclusive organization that enriches the region by inspiring nature-based experiences, celebrating cultural heritage and building strong and healthy communities through our dedicated staff, volunteers, and friends.

This position directly manages a team of both full-time and part-time year around nature education staff. Responsible for consistently leading with an integrated approach to promote employee engagement, a positive work environment, and a commitment to the development of others. Address behaviors and actions that are counter to the cultural expectations and Core Values of Great Parks. Effectively manage teams and work groups by holding others accountable for performance expectations.

• Hires, trains, and supervises interpreters and volunteers in the assigned region to accomplish educational objectives. 
• Develops and implements innovative techniques and tools to reach non-users. 
• Directly supervises assigned staff and satellite locations to accomplish park districts’ educational objectives. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Great Parks’ policies and applicable laws, and delegated authority. Responsibilities include participating in and making recommendations pertaining to the selection and discipline of employees, and other personnel decisions in coordination with Human Resources Staff. Plans and delegates work assignments, trains employees, provides guidance, resolves work issues, and ensures work complies with Great Parks’ policy and performance standards. 
• Regularly evaluates interpretive programs and events, displays and methods by collecting data and developing performance metrics. Benchmarks against peer agencies. 
• Oversees day to day operation at Highfield Discovery Garden. Works closely with the Garden Manager to ensure programming and operational goals are in line with one another; oversee revenue and expenses; sets strategic plan in line with Great Park and Facility Master Plan. 
• Directs the interpretive functions and messaging of the assigned region. Coordinates scheduling and fulfillment of private/public programs and events within the region and in conjunction with other regional managers. 
• Works with government and non-profit agencies, schools, and professional organizations to provide community programming and connections to the park district.
• Supervises the humane care of interpretive and display animals to established standards. Ensures all regulatory requirements are met and written records are maintained. Transports and handles interpretive animals. Ensures the safe interaction of animals with the public. Presents programs on a variety of nature topics, cultural history, and sustainability to public/private groups. Ensures programming is accessible to all guests and inclusive of all abilities. 
• Assists in developing, monitoring, and achieving performance metrics to evaluate agency outcomes. 
• Accounts for cash transactions. Complies with all cash handling policies and enforces cash control procedures. 
• Reviews and approves invoices and controls expenditures. 
• Manages, monitors and develops the Regional Education operating budget and revenue projections. 
• Ensures equipment is maintained according to agency standards. 
• Promotes assigned areas through daily public relations with guests. Assists in implementing promotional plans. 
• Receives and resolves guest concerns and complaints. 
• Works and communicates effectively with other departments, leadership, peers, and subordinates. 
• Performs job duties in accordance with Great Parks’ policies, procedures, and performance expectations.  
• Maintains confidentiality of confidential and sensitive information. 
• Works assigned schedule, exhibits regular and punctual attendance, and works outside of normal schedule as required. 
• Works evenings, holidays and weekends.

QUALIFICATIONS 

An appropriate combination of education, training, course work and experience may qualify an applicant to demonstrate required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of an acceptable qualification is:

• Associate degree in Natural History or related field is required 
• 3 years of related experience which evidences a comprehensive knowledge of natural history interpretation and management principles.

Ability to document identity and employment eligibility within three (3) days of original appointment as a condition of employment in compliance with Immigration Reform and Control Act requirements.

LICENSE OF CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 

State Motor Vehicle Operator’s License that meets GPHC current carrier guidelines. Certified Interpretive Manager or Trainer credentials from NAI or ability to obtain within three years of employment.

We offer an excellent benefit package that includes medical, dental and life insurance; paid vacation, 11 holidays and sick time; enrollment in Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and free or discounted use of many Great Parks of Hamilton County recreational activities.

Great Parks is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or any other classification protected under applicable law.