Outdoor Programs Manager

Conservation Maven; Groton (CT); On-site; USD 57,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nashua River Watershed Association seeks an organized outdoor programs manager to run canoe, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals and deliver environmental education year-round. This full-time role combines summer waterfront operations with off-season education, coordinating lessons, camps, and community programs while leading seasonal staff and ensuring safety and customer service excellence.

The position emphasizes environmental education, paddling instruction support, and program

Qualifications

• Demonstrated canoeing or kayaking experience and paddling safety knowledge.
• Experience leading or supervising staff.
• Interest in environmental education and conservation.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily rentals, reservations, customer service and waterfront operations (April–October).
• Hire, train, schedule and supervise seasonal staff and paddlesports instructors.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, safety procedures, river conditions and risk management.
• Coordinate programs, schedules, lessons, camps and special events.
• Support environmental education and River Classroom programs year-round.

Skills

Paddling experience

Staff leadership

Environmental education

Education

ACA instructor certification

CPR/First Aid certification

Tools

Reservation software

Job description

### Outdoor Programs ManagerSave JobNashua River Watershed AssociationGroton,Massachusetts| | || --- | --- || Job Type | Permanent || Salary | $57,000 - $65,000 per year || Deadline | Nov 30, 2026 || Min. Experience | 2 - 4 years |**Lead Riverfront Operations. Deliver Meaningful Environmental Education.**The Nashua River Watershed Association (NRWA) seeks an organized, safety-minded outdoor professional to manage our canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rental operation and environmental education and recreation programs year-round.**This full-time, hands-on position** combines summer waterfront operations and seasonal staff leadership with off-season environmental education. You'll help visitors enjoy the Nashua River, support school and community programs, and inspire people of all ages to connect with and protect their local watershed.**Key Responsibilities****Outfitter and Waterfront Operations | Primarily April–October*** Manage daily rentals, reservations, customer service, and waterfront operations.* Hire, train, schedule, and supervise seasonal staff and paddlesports instructors.* Oversee equipment maintenance, safety procedures, river conditions, and risk management.* Coordinate equipment and logistics for lessons, guided trips, camps, and special events.**Environmental Education | Primarily November–April, with year-round support*** Deliver classroom-based and outdoor environmental education programs in collaboration with the Education Director and education staff.* Prepare educational materials, supplies, and equipment.* Coordinate program schedules, transportation, and logistics.* Support River Classroom programs, watershed stewardship activities, community events, and preparation for the upcoming paddling season.**Year-Round Operations*** Maintain accurate records, equipment inventories, reservations, and operational systems.* Communicate effectively with colleagues, participants, educators, and community partners.* Help ensure safe, welcoming, and inclusive experiences across NRWA programs.**Qualifications**The ideal candidate brings paddling experience, organizational and leadership skills, and an interest in environmental education and conservation. Experience in outfitter operations, instruction, guiding, outdoor recreation, or education is valued.**Candidates should have**:* Demonstrated canoeing or kayaking experience and knowledge of paddling safety.* Experience leading or supervising staff.* Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.* Experience working with students or supporting educational programs.* Comfort using reservation, scheduling, and other computer systems.* An interest in freshwater ecosystems and environmental conservation.**Requirements*** Valid driver's license and safe driving record.* Current CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain.* Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in an active outdoor environment.* ACA (American Canoe Association) instructor certification, or willingness to obtain.* Availability to work weekends and holidays during the busy paddling season.**Position Details****Schedule:** Full-time, year-round. Summer focuses on outfitter operations, waterfront safety, and staff supervision; the off-season focuses on environmental education and program preparation and delivery.**Reports to:** Education Director**Salary:** $57,000–$65,000 annually, commensurate with experience.**Why Join NRWA?**Join a collaborative, mission-driven team working to protect the rivers, forests, wetlands, wildlife, and communities of the Nashua River watershed. Through outdoor recreation and environmental education, you'll help people experience the river, learn about their local environment, and become watershed stewards.NRWA values curiosity, professional growth, and a welcoming workplace where diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are supported.NRWA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supportedHow To ApplySend resume and cover letter detailing **both enviromental education and paddling instruction experience** to Gaynor Bigelbach, Education Director [e-mail] When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.