Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs

Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs

Join to apply for the Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs role at Denver Botanic Gardens
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Denver Botanic Gardens, founded in 1951, is a leading botanical garden in the United States. The Gardens houses a robust living plant, natural history, and art collection, and offers world‑class education and research programs. The Gardens is an urban oasis that provides unforgettable garden experiences for the whole family.

The Education Department is seeking a Full‑time Assistant Manager of School and Plains Programs. This position manages and supports a variety of school and camp programs, including but not limited to field‑trip visits, school‑aged camps, online lessons, overnights, educational classes, shared programming, special events, and other educational experiences at Plains Conservation Center and other sites. The Assistant Manager supervises assigned instructing staff and volunteers, leads interactive, hands‑on, plant‑based curriculum for Pre‑K‑12 students, and coordinates program logistics.

The role maintains clear communication between sites and the City of Aurora staff. Primary schedule:
Tuesday‑Saturday; full time.

• Prepare and deliver assigned programs, including guided tours, school field trips, camps, events, classes, and outreach.
• Manage schedules, records, and program communication, facilities, instructors, resources, contracts, and registrations.
• Coordinate program logistics, staffing, materials, equipment, records, and adherence to guidelines.
• Lead programs at Denver Botanic Gardens locations for school‑age groups.
• Provide program introduction to elementary‑age students, teachers, and parent chaperones.
• Teach online or virtual programs to school‑age students.
• Teach Cultivation Cruiser programs to Pre‑K‑12 students at area schools and other locations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date records for instructing staff, including training and health & safety guidelines.
• Maintain accurate, timely communication with staff at other Gardens sites and supervisors.
• Lead hands‑on, interactive activities during programming; supervise children during lunch or play times; and ensure a safe environment and address first aid issues.
• Coordinate and supervise volunteers as part of the Education team, implementing volunteer training sessions specific to assigned programming.
• Maintain files, prepare reports, deliver presentations, and support program evaluation and improvement.
• Work with all departments to assure the highest quality experience for all visitors and partners.
• Collaborate with Plains Conservation Center stakeholders, including City of Aurora staff, to ensure program success and follow partnership protocols.
• Maintain professional, solution‑oriented demeanor when responding to members and visitors.
• Regular attendance is required; remote work is at management discretion.

• Maintain accurate records, files, and schedules.
• Prioritize, supervise, and collaborate with other Gardens staff.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Valid Colorado State driver’s license and acceptable driving record; reliable access to personal vehicle.
• Qualified as a childcare lead teacher, CPR and First Aid certification.
• Demonstrated knowledge, skill, and ability in programming and management.
• Flexibility to modify plans and work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Positive representative of the Gardens internally and externally at all times.
• Commitment to safety, respect, and cooperation with colleagues and the public.
• Work overtime as necessary.

• Bachelor’s degree and/or equivalent education and experience.
• Minimum of 4 years experience teaching school‑aged children.
• Minimum 2 years supervisory experience.
• Previous experience leading a program site or satellite location.
• Preferred: extensive teaching or supervisory experience at gardens, museums, or outdoor education settings.
• Valid driver’s license required.

• Up to 10% travel required; ability to travel to remote or other Garden locations.

Denver Botanic Gardens offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), generous retirement savings plan with 6% company contribution after one year of service, paid holidays, vacation, sick time, short‑term and long‑term disability coverage, employee assistance program (EAP), RTD ECO pass, Denver Botanic Gardens membership, access to education classes, and summer concert tickets.