Yosemite Programs Manager

Oversees all functional aspects of the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center

Opens the YCHC the first Wednesday in May, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Planning and communicating with manger and critical stakeholders when plans change due to unforeseen circumstance 

Schedules, stocks and manages three campsites in Lower Pines Campground, provides volunteers with information on campsites, enforces rules set by the NPS for the campsites/campground and the use of the campsites in a low-impact manner. 

Maintains a working relationship with YNP staff (Interpretation and Education, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, and the Camp Office) as needed; and with Yosemite Hospitality, Yosemite Conservancy, and other Park Partners; and attends the monthly IMT (Interpretive Management Team) meetings.

Ensures the YCHC stays clean. Schedules or supports hantavirus mitigation cleaning in April before volunteers arrive, schedules and supports the cleaning company if needed in weekly floor cleanings, and maintains a clean environment for volunteers, visitors, and self in the YCHC.

Purchases office and cleaning supplies if needed.

Safety Management

Responds to emergencies in Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center, and the three campsites. Attends National Park Service meetings regarding floods, fires, rock fall, and road closures. Trains volunteers and program presenters with regard to emergencies and possible evacuations. Knows evacuation plans, maintains a first-aid kit in the YCHC and in camp, and provides incident reports as needed. Remains on-call overnight and weekends for present volunteers.

Works with the Sierra Club Outings Safety regarding prevention, incidents and related issues to ensure staff and volunteer safety in accordance with Sierra Club and NPS policies and procedures.

Maintains a safe and inclusive working and living environment for staff, volunteers, and park visitors.

Community Education

Works with appropriate local Chapter staff, volunteer entities, and partners to plan and implement educational, visibility, media, and community outreach events to generate public support with relevant decision makers and in the media.

Identifies, develops, and supports volunteer leaders and builds grassroots power to advocate for the accurate representation of Yosemite History. Recruits, engages, trains, and motivates people to influence decision makers and help achieve this goal.

Identifies and is responsible for developing strong relationships with key people of influence including public officials and community leaders, especially from frontline communities, to influence positive campaign or program outcomes.

Detailed knowledge and/or expertise in at least one field directly connected to curating the YCHC: Examples may include natural sciences, history, environmental studies, museum studies experiential education, social justice and indigenous studies, or demonstrated ability to develop this knowledge. Interest and enthusiasm for connecting self and community to nature.

Experience developing educational programs and working with the public. 1+ years of experience coordinating programs and/or working with the public. Examples may include experience in coordinating community speakers series, working at a visitor center, and/or a government agency. You are committed to building outdoor and environmental educational programming for the public that demonstrates and amplifies a rich diversity of experience.

Excellent interpersonal and facilitation skills in working with volunteers. Experience working with volunteers from diverse identities and facilitating collaborative working teams. Experience working as a part of a team, building trust and developing positive group dynamics. Understands the volunteer experience and the myriad of reasons someone spends their time volunteering.

The job requires in person coverage of the center Wednesday through Sunday. 

Must be able to work weekends starting when volunteers are scheduled, and holidays, if concurrent with the YCHC Wednesday through Sunday schedule.

Equity Analysis and Practice. You are aware of your group identities and how they have shaped your life and experiences at work. You have an analysis of how racism and other forms of oppression in society impact relationships, systems and culture. You bring experience and skills for working effectively with colleagues across group identities and position/role. 

Committed to evolution. You are committed to continuously deepening and evolving your own understanding of systems of oppression through study, openness, and humility. And you easily recognize your own relationship to privilege and power, examining and shifting your behaviors as appropriate.

Uplifting and additive. You see mistakes as opportunities for growth; problems as catalysts for solutions, and inspire others along the journey. You carry a constructive approach, can-do attitude, a sense of humor, and authentic kindness wherever you go.

General Knowledge of the Sierra Club. Knows or is willing to quickly learn the mission; values; national campaigns; programs; conservation issues; and the Board of Directors messaging guidance in interpreting the history and future of the Sierra Club.

General Knowledge of Yosemite National Park including the geographical layout of the park and includes knowledge of roads, facilities, shuttle service, park partners, and programs.

Personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, satisfactory driving record and the ability to drive on mountain roads.

Able to transition from work at home to work in Yosemite National Park in the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center.

Willing to clean and maintain the YCHC.

Knowledge and experience in a wide variety of safety and risk management protocols and practices. Examples may include volunteering at a fire department, emergency response team and/or possessing a current Wilderness First Responder certification.

Proficient in a second language.