Description
Operations Director
Operations Director Position Summary:
The Operations Director is a key organizational leader responsible for ensuring that Life Adventure Center’s programs, facilities, and operational systems run safely, efficiently, and in alignment with industry best practices. This role oversees daily operational functions, risk management processes, accreditation compliance, and staff training systems while supporting a healthy, professional, and missiondriven workplace culture.
The ideal candidate demonstrates strong risk management judgment, the ability to manage complex logistics, and a commitment to Life Adventure Center’s mission of using outdoor adventure to transform lives affected by trauma.
Essential duties and responsibilities:
Training, Staffing & Supervision
Develop, schedule, and deliver required training for staff; ensure accurate tracking and identification of training needs or compliance gaps.
Recruit, train, supervise, and support volunteers to enhance program quality and capacity.
Recruit, train, supervise, and support seasonal staff, including interns; collaborate with colleges/universities as needed.
Directly supervise the Operations Coordinator/Registrar, including performance management, coaching, and workflow oversight.
Community & Industry Engagement
Serve as LAC’s primary representative at local and regional industry events, including ACA, AEE, volunteer fairs, Chambers of Commerce, and other assigned engagements.
Support the advancement of LAC’s community presence through professional, missionaligned representation.
Program & Event Operations
Provide operational leadership for LAC’s programs and events including logistics, volunteer coordination, registration processes, and event promotion.
Oversee compliance with ACA, AEE, LNT, and other relevant industry standards.
Safety, Risk Management & Facilities
Oversee inspections, maintenance, replacement, and documentation for all program equipment and facilities to ensure compliance with industry, insurance, and accreditation standards.
Collaborate with staff and vendors to design, implement, and maintain risk management systems and safety improvement processes.
Manage food service operations, including ordering, meal planning support, and organization of kitchen systems.
Organizational Leadership & Communication
Contribute actively to staff meetings; promote effective communication, collaboration, innovation, and staff wellbeing.
Communicate proactively with the Executive Director regarding operational needs, emerging challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
Pursue professional development and training opportunities related to program operations, safety, and leadership.
Serve as a positive role model consistent with LAC’s values, including traumainformed practice, empathy, professionalism, and respect for all participants.
Other Duties
Provide services in a manner that respects individual dignity, cultural identity, and diverse lived experiences.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Expectations:
Flexibility to work varying hours, including occasional weekends or evenings based on program needs.
Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Life Adventure Center.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work for extended periods outdoors in varying weather conditions (reasonable accommodation considered per ADA guidelines).
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, nonprofit management, outdoor recreation, education, or a related field.
Five (5) years of relevant professional experience in operations, program management, communications, risk management or nonprofit work.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including experience supervising staff or volunteers.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, registration software, volunteer management platforms, and digital communication tools.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance; willingness to travel locally/regionally as needed.
Reporting Structure
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Operations Coordinator/Registrar, Seasonal Staff, Volunteers
Compensation:
$60,000-70,000/year commensurate with experience, skills and education. Excellent benefits include generous PTO, health insurance, 403(b) with up to 5% employer match contribution, flexible hours and an office located on a spectacular 575-acre outdoor campus.
Requirements
Expectations:
Flexibility to work varying hours, including occasional weekends or evenings based on program needs.
Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of Life Adventure Center.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work for extended periods outdoors in varying weather conditions (reasonable accommodation considered per ADA guidelines).
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, nonprofit management, outdoor recreation, education, or a related field.
Five (5) years of relevant professional experience in operations, program management, communications, risk management or nonprofit work.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including experience supervising staff or volunteers.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, registration software, volunteer management platforms, and digital communication tools.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance; willingness to travel locally/regionally as needed.
