Neurodiverse Workforce and Conservation Manager

The Blue Lotus Center assists people of any age with profound life challenges by offering accessible outdoor recreational and therapeutic opportunities in a caring, accepting, and inspiring 64-acre day-camp setting. We strive to inspire, stimulate and invigorate the human spirit through a connection with the natural environment.

Neurodiverse Workforce and Conservation Manager Job Description

This full time, year-round position is responsible for coordinating all aspects of our new Neurodiversity Apprenticeship Program at the Blue Lotus Center. This is an exciting opportunity to start and build a program that will have a deep impact on the lives of young adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities seeking employment. The ideal applicant has experience in supported employment and/or land management, as well as a passion for working outdoors and job coaching. This role starts in October 2025 to prepare for hiring our first cohort of apprentices in spring 2026. Salary is $60,000/year.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Program development: design and implement all aspects of the neurodiversity apprenticeship program including promotion, recruitment, hiring, training, protocols, equipment, volunteer coordination, communication, evaluation, and external partner relationship building.
• Apprentices: hire, train, and supervise six seasonal part-time neurodivergent apprentices with varying levels of needed support. Work alongside them throughout the growing season to build skills and independence while preparing them for future employment in the field. Meet regularly with apprentices and their personal advocates to set goals and evaluate progress. Provide employment support and job coaching necessary for their success.
• Conservation: implement the Center’s land management plan to improve biodiversity on our 64-acre property. Includes weeding, digging, seed propagation, transplanting, invasive species removal, native species propagation, landscaping and trail maintenance. This position will include both teaching these skills and working alongside the apprentices in the field.
• Planning and fund development: during the off-season, time will be spent planning and preparing for the future as well as writing grants and participating in other fundraising activities to help raise money for the program.
• Occasionally help with other organization-wide events, programs, and fundraisers.

QUALIFICATIONS

Note: we do not expect every applicant to have experience in ALL the areas listed below, and professional development will be provided to help our manager develop skills in areas without prior experience. However, experience working with people with disabilities is essential.

• Professional experience in supported employment and/or working closely with people with cognitive or intellectual disabilities.
• Knowledge of disability community including culture, communication, behavioral support, and various diagnoses.
• Experience supervising employees or volunteers in a professional setting.
• Experience in program development or project management.
• Experience working outside in landscaping, land management, gardening, farming, or a related field.
• Must be kind and compassionate, with a commitment to the Blue Lotus Center’s mission of serving people with disabilities and other profound life challenges.

HELPFUL EXPERIENCE

• Special education, occupational therapy, job coaching, or similar field.
• Experience with a family member or loved one with a disability.
• Knowledge of ecology, native landscaping, or invasive species control.
• Grant writing, reporting and/or other fundraising experience.
• Experience in nonprofit organizations as an employee or volunteer.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Blue Lotus is a collaborative team working environment with a small supportive staff. We make major decisions, plan for the future, and solve problems as a team alongside our very supportive board and volunteer corps.
• Expect to work outside most of the time from mid-April to mid-October in a variety of weather conditions including hot summer weather and light rain.
• Must be able to lift 10-30lbs frequently and up to 50lbs occasionally.
• Must be comfortable working with neurodivergent colleagues with varying levels of communication, emotional regulation, education, social awareness, and sensory regulation abilities.

OTHER INFORMATION

• The Blue Lotus Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected status.