Expedition Manager, Education

About SOI Foundation:

The SOI Foundation is globally recognized for life-changing polar expeditions for diverse youth. But that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to our mission. Experiential, environmental education, cross-cultural experiences, science and outreach initiatives in the Arctic and the Antarctic, inspires new knowledge, perspectives, ideas, connections, careers, and collaborative solutions. The outcome is a global network of alumni inspiring hope and action for a sustainable future for people and planet.

The Role:

The Expedition Manager - Education is an integral member of the SOI team, working under the guidance of the Expedition Team Lead, and in collaboration with Expedition Manager - Science & Research. This position is responsible for co-designing and delivering exceptional educational programming before, during, and after SOI ship-based and land-based expeditions.

This is a role for someone who:

• Thrives on designing innovative, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and transform perspectives
• Has deep experience in experiential, outdoor, and environmental education with secondary and post-secondary students
• Excels at managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects with many moving parts
• Brings cultural competency and meaningful experience working with diverse youth, including Indigenous communities
• Is an exceptional communicator and natural relationship builder
• Works collaboratively, brings positive energy, and leads by example
• Is motivated to contribute to the global journey toward a more sustainable and just future

What You'll Do, key tasks & responsibilities

• Co-design transformative education programs that integrate experiential learning, cultural exchange, environmental science, and leadership development.
• Lead the successful design and delivery of educational expedition programs
  • Co-lead expedition education delivery on ship-based Arctic and Antarctic expeditions and land-based programs
• Collaborate with the Expedition Team to ensure seamless integration of education programming throughout the expedition lifecycle.
  • Ensure educational activities and approaches that reflect two-eyed seeing
  • Co-develop programming with the Pod-leader teams
• Co-Develop pre-expedition curriculum and resources that prepare students for deep learning experiences
  • Support programming, workshops, webinars, tools, materials…
• Support the Expedition Leader and ship-board teams during expeditions, both in the field and/or on the expeditions
• Facilitate post-expedition engagement to sustain impact and inspire continued action
• Build and maintain relationships with educators, partner organizations, and diverse youth communities
• Mentor and support students from varied backgrounds, with particular attention to creating inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments
• Manage timelines, logistics, and communications for complex educational initiatives
• Contribute to a positive work environment at the SOI Foundation, excluding events, conferences, all staff meetings, and assisting with responsibilities as assigned.

Required:

• Undergraduate degree in Education, Environmental Education, or related field (Master's degree preferred), and/or a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Extensive experience designing and delivering experiential, outdoor, and environmental education programs for youth
• Ability to align educational themes with clear objectives and intended outcomes
• Proven project management skills with complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives
• Demonstrated experience working with diverse youth populations, including Indigenous youth
• Strong communication skills (written, verbal, and interpersonal). A people person.
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial spirit demonstrating a strong capacity to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to work collaboratively in high-pressure, remote environments, and an equal ability to work productively in an office environment for much of the year
• Team player attitude with a passion for youth empowerment and environmental stewardship

Assets:

• Fluency in languages other than English (French, Spanish, or Indigenous languages)
• Curriculum development experience
• Background in climate change education or sustainability education

Why Join Us:

• Make a lasting impact: Join a global community of changemakers and inspire the next generation of young leaders, alongside passionate students, scientists, artists, and educators
• Collaborative culture & Professional growth: Be part of a dedicated, passionate team committed to hope and action. SOI is committed to enhancing equity, diversity and inclusion among its staff and programs

Eligibility:

Open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, individuals who have been granted refugee status in Canada, and those legally entitled to work in Canada (e.g., holders of a valid work permit).

Location:

Due to the collaborative nature of this role, it will be based out of the Gatineau office in Quebec. The Expedition Team is required to work full time in-office for the months of May through August. And during the months of September through April the team is able to use a hybrid model combining both in-person work (Tue, Wed, Thu) and focused remote work (Mon, Fri).

Compensation and Benefits:

The SOI Foundation offers all employees a competitive salary and benefits package, including a 4.5-day work week, 20 days paid vacation, paid sick leave, office closure over Christmas and New Year, a benefits package, flexible working hours and a hybrid working environment.

Application process :

SOI is committed to enhancing equity, diversity and inclusion among its staff and programs and invites all qualified applicants to apply.

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references to tracy@soifoundation.org.

In your cover letter, please share:

• Your approach to designing inclusive, experiential learning experiences
• A specific example of a complex educational program you've managed
• Why this role aligns with your values and career aspirations

While we thank all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.