Outdoor Adventures Trip Leader
Position Title: Outdoor Adventures Trip Leader
Department: Recreation and Wellness
Division: Student Affairs
Reports To: Coordinator, Outdoor Adventures
Hours Per Week: Varies
Starting Wage: $16/hr.
Department Overview
The Department of Recreation and Wellness, housed in the Division of Student Affairs, believes in a balance of social, mental and physical wellness creates a foundation for successful, healthy individuals. We foster comprehensive wellness by engaging students and the UNCG community in experiential and educational opportunities. We promote lifelong success through meaningful and inclusive programs and resources.
Position Description
The Outdoor Adventures Trip Leader is an essential leadership role within the Outdoor Adventures program. Trip Leaders are responsible for all aspects of the adventure trips offered by the program including trip preparation, transportation, implementation, and assessment of trips. Trips occur on weekends, during breaks, and on occasional evenings. Previous experience as a trip leader is not required, as all Trip Leaders must complete CTR 203: Fundamentals of Outdoor Leadership during the Fall or Spring semester to continue to serve on leadership teams for trips.
Tasks & Responsibilities
Outdoor Adventures Trip Leaders are expected to work directly with the trip leadership team to accomplish tasks and maintain a safe and welcoming trip experience for participants. They should provide a positive, supportive, and engaging customer experience while educating participants on outdoor skills and living. Trip Leaders are responsible for following risk management protocol and administering wilderness first aid care as needed. While preparing for a trip, Trip Leaders are expected to properly plan trips and identify necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience. They should be effectively contributing to the trip leadership team by sharing their experiences and skills. Trip Leaders are expected to provide constructive and intentional feedback to co-leaders on the team to assist in their growth and development.
Current employment with Outdoor Adventures as an Assistant is required to serve as a Trip Leader. Trip Leaders will be assigned trips prior to the beginning of each semester and will be required to work weekly shifts in Outdoor Adventures throughout the semester. Trip Leaders must enroll in, and pass, the CTR 203: Fundamentals of Outdoor Leadership academic class to supplement the required training for this role. Mandatory trip leader training occurs during the week prior to the start of each semester, attendance is required and can impact the ability to lead trips during the semester. All Trip Leaders will be expected to maintain their skills and take ownership of their development. Continued education opportunities will be offered at regular intervals throughout the semester to enhance technical and interpersonal skills.
Outdoor Adventures Trip Leaders responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Daily Operations (50%)
Maintain a safe and welcoming environment on trips and at Outdoor Adventures.3
Provide positive & engaging experiences for patrons and co-leaders during trip experiences.3
Work directly with Trip Program Assistant and Professional Staff to develop trips.2
Responsible for managing documents and records, including trip and facility documents.2
Process trip and clinic registrations and equipment rentals.2
Enforce all policies with patrons and staff members.5
Inspect activity equipment for quality and safety standards.1
Drive High Occupancy Vehicles and tow trailers to trip locations safely and efficiently.1
Administer risk management policies and procedures as needed.1
Outfitting patrons with outdoor equipment for outdoor trips.2
Inventory, clean, repair, and maintain all trip equipment post-trip.6
Staff Training & Development (30%)
Responsible for attending and assisting with all staff meetings3
Must maintain current Wilderness First Aid through NOLS Wilderness Medicine1
Must maintain a current CPRO Certification and First Aid Certification (required and available upon hire).7
Must attend activity specific trainings to maintain skill levels. 6,
Responsible for maintaining skills by attending clinics and trainings as appropriate.6
Risk Management & Conflict Resolution (15%)
Continually inspect facilities and equipment to ensure a safe environment is provided for program participants and spectators.1
Responsible for taking appropriate actions when dealing with patrons who are causing disturbances or violating policies and procedures1, 2
Respond to all medical emergencies within the scope of training provided1. 6
Implement department emergency action plan as needed1, 5
Demonstrate exceptional communication skills with leadership teams on trips. 2, 3
Administer first aid and risk management policies and procedures as needed.1
Maintain open and respectful discussions throughout trip experiences with participants and leaders.3,5, 7
Marketing (5%)
Promote and inform participants and potential participants about Outdoor Adventures programs.2
Take photos and videos during trips for future marketing use.7
Required Skills, Experience, and Certifications
Enrollment at UNCG and in good academic standing (2.5 GPA minimum required).
Willingness to make a minimum of a 2-year commitment to the program.
Current employment and in good standing as an Outdoor Adventures Assistant.
Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Willingness to learn and develop practical and transferable leadership skills.
A valid driver’s license and approved driving record (driving check required at time of appointment).
Passing grade in CTR 203: Fundamentals of Outdoor Leadership.
Wilderness First Aid Certification (available upon completion of CTR 203).
CPRO Certification and First Aid Certification (can obtain after getting hired offered through RecWell).
Preferred Skills, Experience, and Certifications
Previous leadership/teaching experience (recommended).
Previous customer service experience (recommended).