Poplar Ridge Challenge Course Facilitator (Staff Wage)

Association for Experiential Education; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Virginia is seeking staff for the Poplar Ridge Challenge Course, an outdoor experiential learning program in Charlottesville. The role involves guiding groups through ropes courses, delivering reflective discussions, and serving as a trainer, coach, and facilitator.

Minimum requirements include a high school diploma, no prior experience required, and CPR/First Aid provided after hire. This is a wage position with limited hours and no leave benefits.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma.
• Experience: No prior experience needed.
• Licensure: CPR/First Aid provided once hired.

Skills

Public speaking

Group facilitation

Verbal communication

Presentation to diverse audiences

Education

High school diploma

Job description

The Poplar Ridge Challenge Course is an outdoor experiential learning and training program focused on team building, problem solving, and leadership development. Participants engage in a variety of initiatives, including low ropes and high ropes activities. Facilitators play multiple roles—trainer, leader, coach, mediator, role model, instructor, and counselor—guiding teams of 8-16 participants through the activities and supporting reflective discussions on key learning outcomes.

This hands-on role involves working with ropes, harnesses, and group belay systems. Most activities take place at the Poplar Ridge Challenge Course, an outdoor facility, with indoor alternatives during inclement weather. The position is hired on a rolling basis, as needed.

This is a wage position which is not eligible for leave or other benefits and is limited to 1500 hours of work in a year. For more information, refer to the Wage Employment link: http://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-029

Questions related to the application process may be directed to Keith Johnson, HR Specialist fkj2t @virginia.edu.

The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Education: High school diploma
• Experience: No prior experience needed
• Licensure: CPR/First Aid (provided once hired).

Preferred Requirements:

• Ability to present information clearly and confidently in front of large groups.
• Experience with public speaking and delivering presentations to diverse audiences.
• Comfortable speaking in front of large groups and engaging with audiences.
• Strong verbal communication skills, with experience speaking in front of large audiences.
• Proficient in public speaking and facilitating presentations to groups of varying sizes.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position will be required to lift up to 25 pounds and be on their feet for extended periods of time

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.