Director of Experiential Education Program

Director of Experiential Education Program

Albuquerque Academy is seeking a dynamic, seasoned, and safety-focused Director of Experiential Education Program to lead our comprehensive Outdoor Education initiatives. This pivotal role is responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing a robust program of outdoor trips, expeditions, and experiential learning opportunities that challenge students, foster personal growth, and complement our rigorous academic curriculum. The successful candidate will model and promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, ensuring that all program activities respect and preserve the natural environments in which we learn. A deep understanding of emotional intelligence—its cultivation in a demanding outdoor environment—along with a commitment to risk management and sustainability, are essential.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in outdoor leadership, curriculum development, and program administration, with a passion for using wilderness experiences as a catalyst for student development. This is a full-time, 12-month position beginning July 1, 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

• Outdoor Program Development and Oversight: Design, implement, and manage a robust portfolio of extended-trip outdoor education programs, including backpacking, climbing, and river trips for students in grades 6-12, focusing on the unique wilderness areas of the Southwest.
• Summer Program Leadership: Specifically develop and lead a comprehensive schedule of mandatory and elective summer outdoor trips and expeditions, ensuring high-quality, transformative experiences for students.
• Curriculum Integration: Collaborate closely with faculty to intentionally integrate core academic concepts, leadership development, and the cultivation of (including self-awareness, resilience, and collaborative problem-solving) into the outdoor curriculum.
• Risk Management and Safety: Establish and enforce the highest standards for safety, logistics, and emergency protocols across all outdoor programs. Conduct regular risk assessments and manage all necessary certifications and equipment maintenance.
• Staff and Student Development: Recruit, train, supervise, and mentor a highly qualified team of outdoor instructors and faculty trip leaders. Provide direct guidance and mentorship to students, emphasizing responsible decision-making and ethical wilderness practice.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the annual budget for the Experiential Education Program, including equipment procurement and trip-specific funding.
• Partnership Management (as needed): Manage relationships with necessary outfitters, guide services, land management organizations, and external partners required to support the program's primary focus on outdoor education.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Outdoor/Experiential Education, Education Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a leadership or director-level role within a high-quality outdoor or wilderness education program, preferably with recent strong field experience.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing extended wilderness expeditions during the school year and summer.
• Proven ability to design and implement a curriculum that intentionally focuses on developing student leadership, emotional intelligence, and a deep love and appreciation of the Southwest.
• Expert-level knowledge of wilderness risk management protocols and best practices.
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness EMT (W-EMT) certification is required.
• A valid Driver’s License is required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds with or without assistance.
• Excellent organizational, management, and communication skills.

Working Conditions & Benefits:

• This is a full-time, 12-month position.
• The role involves significant time leading and supervising multi-day outdoor trips, including during the summer and over school breaks.
• The base of operations will be on the Albuquerque Academy campus.
• Housing is available on the Bear Canyon school property, near campus.
• Albuquerque Academy offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

To Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a letter of interest, detailing their passion for outdoor education and suitability for this role, along with a comprehensive resume and contact information for three professional references. Applications should be submitted through the Albuquerque Academy careers portal.

EEO/ADA Compliance

Albuquerque Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Academy will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.