LEAP - Life Expanding Adventure Program
Hiring:
Program Director
Location: Preference for candidates based in Portland, Hood River, The Dalles, Maupin, Warm Springs/Mecca Flat area, as well as McCall or Riggins, ID.
Program Sites: Lower Salmon River, Idaho; Lower Deschutes River, Oregon
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Salary: $55,000–$65,000 annually + benefits
Reports to: Executive Director
About the Role
LEAP is seeking a passionate Program Director to lead its programs, which operate primarily on the Lower Salmon River in Idaho and the Lower Deschutes River in Oregon. This position oversees all aspects of program execution, risk management, partnership development, and guide supervision and mentorship.
LEAP programs are not simply whitewater kayaking trips; they are immersive program experiences designed to create life-expanding opportunities for participants. The ideal candidate leads with a trauma-informed lens, bringing both a passion for and an appreciation of nature immersion. They understand the profound impact that connection to nature, to one another, and to oneself can have in supporting healing from life’s traumas and adversities.
The Program Director will work closely with the Executive Director, the Board’s Operations Committee and Program Committee, and LEAP’s community partners to ensure high-quality programming aligns with LEAP’s mission.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Execution
Oversee all wilderness programming, ensuring a trauma-informed, inclusive, and mission-driven experience with the partnership of the Operations Chair and Committee of the Board of Directors.
Lead on-river logistics, risk management, and compliance with federal, state, and tribal regulations.
Maintain strong relationships with land agencies, tribal representatives, and local organizations to ensure ethical and sustainable use of natural spaces.
Implement, continuously improve, and evaluate group programming and facilitation methods, integrating best practices in wilderness leadership.
Guide Team Development
Recruit, vet, onboard, train, and mentor a team of professional guides—including those advancing through LEAP’s mentorship program—while ensuring compliance with FCRA fair hiring practices.
Foster a positive, growth-oriented culture that emphasizes professional development, safety, and inclusivity.
Develop and oversee team leadership, staff training, and mentorship structures to ensure high-quality participant experiences.
Support staff in conflict resolution, communication, and best practices for working with youth overcoming adversity.
Technical & Wilderness Experience
Provide on-water guiding and outdoor leadership, with a strong understanding of wilderness risk management.
Oversee Ensure the technical proficiency of guides, managing outfitter/guide operations to ensure adherence to permit compliance, operational plan management, and seasonal job travel expectations.
Maintain and oversee gear and inventory management.
Utilize database and data collection tools (e.g., CampDoc, Excel) to support program documentation and reporting.
Oversee risk management and critical incident response systems
Partnership & Community Engagement
Collaborate with nonprofit partners, healthcare organizations, and youth-serving agencies to tailor LEAP programs to diverse participant needs.
Represent LEAP at events, fundraising initiatives, and partner meetings, supporting development and outreach efforts.
Lead logistical coordination and partnership planning for the annual Paddle Picnic on June 21, 2025.
Administrative & Remote Work
Plan and coordinate logistics remotely, including budgeting, scheduling, and permit applications.
If not located in Portland, travel to Portland approximately four to six times per year for Board meetings, gear and vehicle management, special events, and partner engagement.
Oversee program data collection and ensure reporting aligns with grant and funding requirements.
Skills and Experience Preferred
2+ years hiring and managing small teams; 3+ seasons leading multi-day outdoor programs.
Backcountry guiding experience; river technical skills preferred.
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification or ability to obtain before the season.
Flexibility and enthusiasm for primarily field-based summer work.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in Word, Excel, and tools like Constant Contact, Squarespace, and Wholsum.
Self-motivated, collaborative, and able to work independently.
Experience gathering and analyzing program data and survey results.
Creative problem-solver, able to refine programs and grow impact.
Physical Requirements and Accessibility
Ability to work in remote wilderness settings for sustained periods (up to 4 months with minimal time off).
Must comply with LEAP’s zero-substance-use policy while facilitating programs.
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as loading/unloading gear, rigging rafts, rowing rafts, and executing river rescue operations.
Must be able to drive a pickup truck with a trailer and be able to back up a trailer, or be able to learn how.
Must be comfortable working at a desk as needed, using a computer, phone, email, and video conferencing tools to coordinate with partners and stakeholders.
Reasonable accommodation will be made to support candidates with disabilities in fulfilling the core functions of this role.
Benefits
Paid health and dental coverage for the primary employee
3% employer match for Simple IRA
20 days PTO plus recognized holidays
The opportunity to lead life-changing river experiences in breathtaking wilderness settings
Additional Information About LEAP - Life Expanding Adventure Program
In the heart of wild rivers, healing begins. At Life Expanding Adventure Program (LEAP), we believe that nature has the power to transform lives. Since 2010, LEAP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has provided no-cost, multi-day immersive wilderness inflatable kayaking and rafting programs for individuals who have experienced trauma and adversity. Through the rush of whitewater and the quiet of canyon nights, participants discover strength, connection, and a renewed sense of self and possibility. LEAP partners with Greater Portland area nonprofit organizations at no cost, expanding their missions to reach those who need the healing power of nature. Through immersive wilderness experiences, LEAP serves burn survivors, unhoused youth, children facing serious illnesses like cancer, military veterans, families escaping domestic violence, neurodivergent youth, and others. To learn more, visit: www.leapadventure.org