Adventure Coordinator - Challenge Course

University of North Carolina at Wilmington; Wilmington, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 43,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Coordinator of Seahawk Adventures – Challenge Course at UNCW manages the operation, administration, and risk management of the campus challenge course and supports other Seahawk Adventures programming, including trips, clinics, climbing wall, leadership development, rentals, and events. A flexible schedule is required due to frequent evening and weekend work.

Bachelor’s degree and one year of adventure programming are required; Master’s degree and two years of outdoor programming are

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Leadership or related field required.
• One year of adventure programming experience required.
• Certifications in first aid, challenge course levels, and outdoor leadership encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Manage the operation, administration, and risk management of the campus challenge course.
• Support other Seahawk Adventures programming including trips, clinics, climbing wall, leadership development, rentals and events.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Leadership, Recreation, Experiential Education, Student Development, Sports Administration, or related field

Master’s degree in Leadership, Recreation, Experiential Education, Student Development, Sports Administration, or related field

Job description

Adventure Coordinator - Challenge Course

Benefits of Working at UNCW

At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, we are driven by a clear purpose: to empower student success, advance innovation, and strengthen the communities we serve. Guided by our strategic vision and commitment to excellence, UNCW offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where employees can make meaningful contributions while growing their careers.
Located in coastal North Carolina, UNCW combines the energy of a thriving academic community with the natural beauty of nearby beaches and outdoor spaces. Here, professional opportunity is balanced with an exceptional quality of life—creating a workplace where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
As a member of the Seahawk community, you’ll benefit from a culture that values well-being, lifelong learning, and connection. UNCW offers a competitive and flexible benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and professional growth. From comprehensive health coverage and retirement options to generous paid leave, tuition opportunities within the UNC System, learning and development opportunities, and wellness programs, UNCW is committed to helping you thrive both at work and in your personal life.

Hiring Range

Hiring Range $43,000 – $49,826

Working Title

Working Title Adventure Coordinator - Challenge Course

The Coordinator of Seahawk Adventures – Challenge Course reports to the Assistant Director for Seahawk Adventures and supports the operation, administration, and risk management of a comprehensive challenge course program. The Coordinator also supports other Seahawk Adventures programming, including trips and clinics, climbing wall, leadership development, rentals, and assigned special events.
This position collaborates with Campus Recreation staff, campus partners, external organizations, professional associations, and equipment vendors to support safe, high-quality participant experiences. A flexible schedule is required due to frequent evening and weekend work.

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act). This position will be required to complete annual training about reporting responsibilities and report Clery crimes that occur within one of three categories of properties: On-Campus property, Non-Campus Property, or Public Property.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Leadership, Recreation, Experiential Education, Student Development, Sports Administration, or related field, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be from an appropriately accredited institution.
• One or more years of adventure programming experience.
• Experience in challenge course facilitation, staff training, and programming, including knowledge of outdoor and experiential education principles.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Master’s degree in Leadership, Recreation, Experiential Education, Student Development, Sports Administration, or related field.
• Graduate Assistant experience in collegiate recreation programming.
• Two years of outdoor adventure programming experience, including group leadership, supervision, training, and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to teach leadership, facilitation, environmental ethics, outdoor skills, and at least two outdoor activities, such as surfing, kayaking, SUP , rock climbing, hiking, or backpacking.
• Documented technical competency in challenge course programming.
• Leave No Trace Level 1 or Level 2 completion.
• WEA Certificate of Outdoor Leadership or equivalent training or course participation.

Required Certifications or Licensures

• Red Cross First Aid/ CPR / AED Instructor Certification, or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
• ACCT Challenge Course Level 2 certification, or equivalent experience to obtain Level 2 certification, which may be obtained after hire.
• Valid Driver’s License.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Department of Campus Recreation inspires healthy lifestyles with inclusive recreation, innovative programming, and sustainable facilities while embracing technology and fostering leadership development. The mission of the Department of Campus Recreation is to provide quality recreational experiences and facilities thus enhancing the overall educational experience of the campus community. This goal is accomplished by offering a wide variety of recreational activities, conducting educational workshops, and providing professional training. The Department of Campus Recreation, Division of Student Affairs, provides a multi-faceted program that includes Fitness, Intramural Sports, Aquatics, Adventure Recreation, Sports Clubs, Open Recreation, Business, and Facility Operations. Campus Recreation at UNCW takes a “Something for Everyone” approach to programming.

College/School Information

University Information

The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research, and service. UNCW is distinguished by its commitment to putting students first, supporting world-class faculty and staff, delivering transformative learning experiences, and leveraging its unique proximity to the ocean. Recognized nationally for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking and reflects emerging industries and interdisciplinary innovation.
A public institution with nearly 20,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to- BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation’s first bachelor’s degree program focused on coastal engineering.
The university’s efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of “Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity” institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
Founded as Wilmington College in 1947, UNCW moved to its present location in the heart of New Hanover County in 1961. The 660-acre campus is only minutes from Wrightsville Beach and historic downtown Wilmington and features Georgian architecture and designated conservation areas. Wilmington International Airport ( ILM ) provides commercial air service to cities both domestic and abroad and is just six miles from the UNCW campus.
UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.

EEO Statement

UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents – except where sex, age,