Outdoor Adventures Supervisor (Evergreen)

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking an experienced Outdoor Adventures Supervisor. This tier 3 leadership position demands significant outdoor leadership experience, supervising part-time staff, and providing high-quality outdoor experiences for the Penn State community.

The role includes overseeing risk management, decision-making, and leading group-based activities in various settings. Commitment to professional development and an expected minimum of 12-15 hours per week is required, with opportunities for advancement and training.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year of outdoor leadership experience, preferably within Campus Recreation.
• Track record of leading others in dynamic and challenging settings.
• Commitment to personal and professional skill development.

Responsibilities

• Supervise part-time staff and oversee outdoor/adventure experiences.
• Handle complex decision making and conflict resolution.
• Conduct risk management and emergency response oversight.

Skills

Outdoor leadership experience

Staff supervision

Risk management

Conflict resolution

Job description

Outdoor Adventures Supervisor

The Department of Campus Recreation is seeking to fill the position of Outdoor Adventures Supervisor. This tier 3 leadership position is for folks with significant outdoor/adventure leadership experience (preferably as an Outdoor Adventures Lead Facilitator) and specialized skills and knowledge.

Staff are responsible for staff supervision and oversight of high quality outdoor/adventure experiences for individuals and groups in the Penn State community and beyond.

• Supervision of part-time staff
• Complex decision making and conflict resolution
• Risk management and emergency response oversight
• Serving as a site or activity-specific expert

These responsibilities may be conducted in a variety of environments and roles including group-based team building (indoor & outdoor), climbing facilities, Stone Valley Recreation Area (boat rentals, outdoor climbing structures, facility rentals, general recreation), outdoor trip leading, and the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center. This position may include driving University vehicles and trailers.

Strong candidates will possess a minimum of one year of outdoor leadership experience (preferably within Campus Recreation) and a track record of leading others in dynamic and challenging settings. Applicants should be committed to personal and professional skill development and possess comprehensive knowledge of Campus Recreation and Outdoor Adventures programs, services, and facilities. All Supervisors will receive Peer Supervision training and up to 20 hours of additional role‑specific training. Opportunities are available for professional development and advancement (see Outdoor Adventures Senior Student Manager position).

Supervisors should expect to work a minimum of 1-2 afternoons/evenings per week and 5-6 weekends per semester. Programs and facility coverage may include overnight shifts. A minimum of 12-15 hours/week is expected (with potential for up to 24 hours/week). Must attend and assist with leading mandatory staff development workshops and trainings (Monday nights, 6-8pm).

Campus Recreation is a department within Student Affairs that provides fitness, wellness, and recreational programs to the campus community through the operation and administration of the new expanded and renovated 200,000 of Intramural Building, the McCoy Natatorium, the 700-acre Stone Valley Outdoor Recreation Area, a Tennis Center including six clay courts and four indoor courts, the White Building, Outdoor Adventures, Aquatics, Club Sports, Fitness and Wellness Programs, and Intramural Sports.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and be accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

EEO statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.