Program Assistant

Appointment: Temporary, one-year appointment. This is a non-benefited position and is not eligible for vacation, sick leave, retirement, or other employee benefits.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The OA Program Assistant supports the planning, execution, and oversight of Outdoor Adventures programming by providing administrative, logistical, supervisory, and training support while assisting broader Campus Recreation initiatives as needed. This position serves as the primary supervisory oversight for Outdoor Adventures overnight programming, including backpacking and camping trips. The OA Program Assistant independently executes established programs, mentors student staff, and ensures compliance with department policies, procedures, and risk management standards in both office and field settings. Weekend availability, including overnight trips, is an essential function of this position. This role is designed as a one-year professional development opportunity for someone seeking advanced experience in recreation management, operational leadership, and student staff development. The OA Program Assistant operates with a high level of independence while remaining aligned with the direction and vision of the Program Coordinator and Field Coordinator.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assists with trip execution, administrative logistics, and student guide oversight while ensuring established workflows and documentation procedures are followed. Independently plans and executes established Outdoor Adventures programs within approved frameworks, ensuring logistics, staffing, safety standards, and documentation procedures are properly followed. Provides lead operational oversight for overnight programs by coordinating trip preparation, participant communication, guide readiness, logistics, and pre-trip meetings. Assists in training and mentoring student staff on policies, procedures, and risk management standards. Provides supervision on overnight trips and other programs when designated by professional staff. Participates in active risk management practices to ensure staff and participant safety and performs additional operational duties as assigned. Provides supervision at the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center during programming including aquatic trips, courses, and rentals.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ability to independently execute established programs while maintaining department standards and risk management protocols. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and overnight programs scheduled throughout the academic year and summer. Strong organizational, logistical, and decision‑making skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and adapt in a dynamic outdoor environment. Ability to supervise, mentor, and support student staff while modeling professionalism and accountability. Ability to effectively teach and facilitate learning in an outdoor setting. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality. Proficiency with Google Workspace and the ability to learn department software and systems. Must possess or be able to obtain required certifications and maintain driving eligibility.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience coordinating outdoor recreation programs, supervising staff, and leading overnight backpacking, camping, or expedition‑style programs. Experience with equipment logistics, inventory management, and recreation management software (e.g., DSE, Fusion). Experience working in higher education, experiential education, outdoor recreation, or a related field with knowledge of Leave No Trace principles and outdoor risk management best practices. Advanced outdoor or aquatic certifications such as Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness First Aid, American Canoe Association, Swiftwater Rescue, American Sailing Association, Leave No Trace, or similar certifications. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cal Poly Humboldt