Position Announcement

JOB TITLE: Southwest Rations Manager

REPORTS TO: Southwest Operations Manager 

JOB OBJECTIVE:  Oversee all aspects of the NOLS Southwest rations department. Provide nutritious field rations for all persons attending Southwest courses. Participate as a member of the NOLS Southwest team in problem solving, operations support, and facilities maintenance. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Familiarity with the philosophy of NOLS field rations and rationing system is strongly preferred.
  • A current NOLS instructor and/or NOLS graduate is preferred.
  • Must possess strong organizational skills and work ethic.
  • Be detail-oriented and have the ability to work independently.
  • Ability to create and maintain impeccably clean work spaces.
  • Must be in good physical condition and able to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Excellent oral communication skills are necessary.
  • Ability to work flexible hours is required, including some weekends and holidays.
  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, Google Applications is desired.
  • Some prior budgetary experience is helpful.

LEADERSHIP OR SUPERVISORY DUTIES: As a member of the NOLS Southwest team, offer and receive timely feedback among team members regarding performance. Work closely with seasonal interns and fellows during their time in the rations department. Facilitate students and staff in the rationing process on issue and de-issue days. 

FUNDS AND/OR PROPERTY: Purchase and track food related expenses valued at approximately $60,000. Work with supervisors on planning the rations budget. Contribute to long-term improvements to the rations systems. They will use local business accounts, petty cash, and credit cards and be responsible for impeccable receipt management and record keeping.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Planning, Ordering & Administrative:  Plan field rations using NOLS’ BITE software program. Purchase rations for all NOLS Southwest courses. Develop and maintain positive relationships with food vendors. Track food inventory through BITE and ensure that sufficient quantities are available to meet course needs. Perform associated bookkeeping duties. Track expenses.

Rationing:  Brief and advise field instructors on course rations. Oversee students and staff in the preparation of field rations on issue days. Create nutritious, balanced ration plans for students and instructors with food intolerances or allergies, and educate them on management strategies for their course. Teach students about the NOLS rationing process and proper nutrition in the backcountry. Facilitate the ration planning process for independent student expedition sections on semesters.

Maintenance & Cleaning:  Maintain an impeccably clean and organized rations room. Stock all course food supplies. Oversee that food preparation, serving, and storage equipment is maintained in a sanitary, functional condition.
 
Operations Support:  Assist with NOLS Southwest operations, including outfitting, transportation, evacuations, and program duties. Drive courses to trailheads. Perform other regular facility clean up, maintenance, and special projects as assigned by the Operations Manager and/or Program Manager. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: NOLS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetics information, disability unrelated to job or admission requirements, or status as a protected veteran. The school’s nondiscrimination policy applies to all phases of its employment process, its admission and financial aid programs, and to all other aspects of its educational programs and activities. Retaliation directed to any person who pursues a discrimination complaint or grievance, participates in a discrimination investigation, or otherwise opposes unlawful discrimination is prohibited.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK: A criminal background check is required from all NOLS employees. 

E-VERIFY: NOLS Participates in E-Verify.

MOTOR VEHICLE RECORD: Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by the position start date and possess a valid driver’s license. Must have a clean driving history and be able to meet the criteria for NOLS vehicle insurance coverage.

WORK LOCATION & CONDITIONS: NOLS Southwest - Tucson, Arizona. This is an approximately 6-month position running from Late September to early April. Rustic housing is available on site for a small fee. The kitchen and living areas are communal, shared with in-town staff. NOLS Southwest provides meals when students are in town.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Send Cover Letter and Resume (in PDF format) to: Ryan Williams

Email: ryan_williams@nols.edu

Contact: Ryan Williams with questions.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Open until filled.

STARTING DATE: September 25, 2021 - April 8, 2022

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