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Southern California Mountains Foundation

Introduction to the Organization

The Southern California Mountains Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that connects communities to public lands through conservation, education, recreation, and responsible stewardship. The Foundation employs approximately 45 full-time staff members, 75–100 part-time employees, and engages approximately 450 volunteers.

Our mission is carried out through seven programs: Urban Conservation Corps of the Inland Empire, Big Bear Discovery Center, Off-Highway Vehicles, Fire Lookouts, National Children’s Forest/Great Seeds Restoration, Music in the Mountains, and Big Bear Trails.

Introduction to the Discovery Center 

Opened in 1998, the Big Bear Discovery Center is the largest visitor center in the Big Bear Valley and welcomes more than 100,000 visitors annually. The facility offers exhibits, visitor information, educational programs, eco-tours, volunteer opportunities, and special events in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. 

Job Description

The Discovery Center Coordinator supports the daily operations of the Big Bear Discovery Center, with primary responsibility for gift store management and visitor services. Responsibilities include retail sales, merchandising, inventory management, online orders, volunteer coordination, front desk operations, and educational program scheduling and support. 

Essential Functions and Duties

Gift Store Operations:

• Oversee all aspects of gift store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, retail sales, cash handling, reconciliation, and other financial transactions.
• Manage Point of Sale (POS) system for merchandise sales, memberships, concert tickets, and eco-tour bookings.
• Manage online store sales, maintain accurate inventory designated for online sales, add inventory to online store and fulfill online orders.
• Monitor inventory levels, receive and price merchandise, prepare recommended orders, and reorder approved merchandise within established budgets and purchasing procedures.
• Develop and implement sales strategies to increase revenue and enhance customer experience.
• Maintain organized surplus inventory and keep storage areas clean and orderly. 
• Complete quarterly inventory reviews and reconcile discrepancies. 
• Train, schedule, and provide daily work direction to gift store volunteers, interns, and seasonal staff. 
• Work alongside and motivate volunteers and interns of all ages and demographics to enhance the visitor experience in the gift store. 

Visitor Services Management:

• Manage the visitor information desk, ensuring guests receive accurate information about the Discovery Center, San Bernardino National Forest, and local recreation opportunities.
• Respond to public inquiries via phone, email, and in-person interactions.
• Promote Discovery Center programs, concerts, eco-tours, and volunteer opportunities.
• Coordinate routine facility needs for the Nature Discovery Zone, SCMF offices, gift store, visitor areas, exhibits, and program spaces. Identify maintenance and safety concerns and communicate facility needs to the Discovery Center Manager and U.S. Forest Service staff as appropriate. 

Volunteer Coordination:

• Recruit, train and oversee volunteers at the Discovery Center. 
• Provide ongoing support and guidance for volunteers. 
• Ensure volunteers are trained to support various operational areas, including visitor services, exhibits and education, special events, development, and administration. 
• Serve as the staff liaison to the Discovery Center Volunteer Advisory Council. Provide guidance, advice, and direction to the council and ensure its activities align with the missions, policies, and priorities of SCMF and the U.S. Forest Service. 

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate sales and inventory records using Clover, Google Drive, and Microsoft Excel. 
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and organizational policies.
• Maintain accurate records on accomplishments and interpretive program participation. 
• Assist with maintaining inventories of office and program supplies and request orders as needed. 

Customer Service and Community Engagement:

• Deliver excellent customer service and foster a welcoming environment for all visitors.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the organization’s mission.

Competencies 

• Interpersonal Skills: Works effectively and tactfully with visitors, volunteers, employees, and public-agency partners.
• Leadership: Demonstrates the ability to organize, motivate, and guide successful team efforts.
• Organization and Independence: Manages multiple priorities and works independently with minimal supervision.
• Communication: Communicates professionally with individuals and groups and represents the organization effectively.
• Technology Proficiency: Uses point-of-sale systems, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, file-sharing platforms, email, and web-based applications.
• Problem Solving: Analyzes situations, develops practical strategies, and implements effective solutions.
• Adaptability: Works effectively in both indoor office and retail settings and outdoor program or event environments.

Minimum Qualifications

• Retail, visitor services, customer service, or related operational experience.
• Experience using point-of-sale and inventory systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, email, and web-based applications.
• Ability to work the regular Thursday-through-Monday schedule, including weekends and designated holidays.
• Valid California Class C driver’s license and ability to meet the Foundation’s driving requirements.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to maintain reliable communication during scheduled work hours using organization-approved communication methods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Retail management experience, preferably in a gift store, visitor center, nonprofit organization, museum, or similar setting.
• Experience coordinating volunteers, interns, or seasonal employees.
• Knowledge of Big Bear Valley and San Bernardino National Forest recreation opportunities.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Experience with Clover or a comparable POS system.

Physical Requirements

The position requires frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, and repetitive hand movements. The employee must frequently lift and carry merchandise and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds and occasionally move items weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance when appropriate. Work may occasionally occur outdoors in varying weather conditions. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compensation: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. 

How to Apply: Online at MountainsFoundation.org

The Southern California Mountains Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without unlawful discrimination based on any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.