Adventure Education Fellowship

Position Summary

The Fellowship provides an experiential learning opportunity for a recent graduate interested in a career in outdoor adventure education.

The Fellow is responsible for assisting the Outdoor U team in the direction and coordination of CSB/SJU Adventure Programs. This position will assist in developing, organizing and leading adventure education efforts utilizing the wide variety of resources available at both CSB and SJU (including off-campus adventure trips, Collegebound, climbing wall, challenge course, team building, bike share, outdoor equipment rental, ice rinks, ski trails, etc.). Other aspects of the position include training and teaching Outdoor U and Adventure student staff and volunteers, teaching public programs, outreach to the CSB/SJU community, land stewardship, and equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

1. Participate in the fellowship aspect of the position, including goal setting, evaluations, training, and networking opportunities.
2. Develop and lead Outdoor Adventure Education programs and activities.
3. Manage and maintain adventure education equipment and gear (e.g. cross-country skis, bicycles, camping gear, challenge course equipment, indoor climbing wall, etc.).
4. Participate in the instruction of CSB/SJU students through established connections with academic and co-curricular departments.
5. Assist Adventure Programs Director with expanding existing activities and developing new programming.
6. Maintain the equipment, and supplies for educational, scientific, and environmental activities. Participate in land stewardship activities.
7. Provide direction to student employees and volunteers assisting with programs.
8. Perform other duties as assigned by the Adventure Programs director.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor of Arts or Sciences degree completion by May 2022, with preferred major in a related field (e.g. environmental studies, outdoor education, parks & recreation, etc.).
2. A strong foundational knowledge of Outdoor Education concepts, methods, and leadership with an emphasis on adventure-based programs and activities.
3. Experience working with college/university outdoor program, youth summer camp, outdoor guiding company, outdoor retailer, facilitating challenge course or team-building programs.
4. Personal and/or professional experiences organizing extended outdoor adventure and wilderness trips.
5. Working knowledge of or willingness to learn basic outdoor and adventure education equipment/gear maintenance and facility operation.
6. Ability to work with culturally and economically diverse audiences.
7. Commitment to increase skills and knowledge of outdoor education through workshops, seminars, classes, and on-the-job training as provided during the Fellowship.
8. Strong oral and written communication skills.
9. Interpersonal skills to build collaborative relationships and work effectively as part of the Outdoor U team in providing a high level of education and service.
10. Ability to work independently.
11. Strong computer skills with ability to utilize multiple programs and applications.
12. Ability to meet the physical and emotional requirements of the position, including: working indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions in all seasons, walking for extended distances on uneven terrain, swimming, camping in wilderness settings, and lifting/moving equipment up to 50 lbs.
13. Ability to drive a college vehicle which requires possession of a valid driver’s license and completion of college defensive driving program.
14. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional nights and weekends.

To Apply

This is a full-time, 10-month (.83), benefit eligible appointment beginning in July 2022 to May 2023 (negotiable start/end dates). Compensation package includes $16.50/hr plus full benefits. Time will be managed to 40 hours per week and will require a flexible schedule.

This position reports to the Adventure Programs director. A pre-employment background check is required and the offer of employment will be contingent upon a successful background check.  Review of applications will begin on May 23 and continue until position is filled.

Special Benefits

Discounted on-campus housing options available.

Variety of outdoor education, land stewardship, diverse audience exposures

Opportunity to develop skills in wide range of outdoor adventure activities including Nordic skiing, rock climbing, ice skating/fishing, canoeing/kayaking, whitewater rafting, biking, backpacking, and more.

Opportunity to lead seasonal adventure trips to various National Parks and public lands throughout the United States.

Why work here

The position features advanced development of outdoor education concepts, methods, and leadership through hands-on training and through participation in seminars, workshops, and continuing education. The Fellow will work as part of a team consisting of five full time staff members, an environmental education fellow, and numerous college students committed to providing outdoor adventure education and recreation opportunities to diverse audiences. Opportunities for collaboration with CSB/SJU faculty and staff and as well as professionals working in multiple fields will also be provided.

Outdoor U provides outdoor education through classes, events and initiatives with the Abbey Arboretum and CSB/SJU. The Abbey Arboretum is a 2,944 acre natural arboretum made up of forest, prairie, wetlands and oak savanna owned by Saint John's Abbey and surrounding Saint John's University. The collaboration between Saint John’s Outdoor U and Saint John’s Abbey Arboretum creates a dynamic commitment to land stewardship, environmental respect, and education of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and experience levels.