Forest Recreation Specialist

WELCOME TO CLEMSON!

Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?

One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

So,... are you ready?

JOB SUMMARY:

The Recreation Specialist will be responsible for the maintenance of recreation infrastructure in the CU Forest. Trail maintenance activities involve tracking trail maintenance needs and issues, maintaining the trail corridor, maintaining the trail tread, inspecting trails, marking trails and modifying the trail system when approved. Public gathering areas will require mowing, trimming, trash removal and general maintenance. Periodic sign maintenance and replacement is required to keep signs visible and legible.

Will accomplish work through a combination of individual effort and coordinated efforts with colleagues, interns, volunteer groups and larger organized volunteer workdays. Uses experience in selecting, using and maintaining the appropriate tool for the job ranging from hand tools and power tools to light equipment. Knowledge of standard recreation management practices, trends and programs as well as participation in training opportunities is necessary.

Requires strong collaborative abilities to work with stakeholders, volunteers and colleagues as well as the ability to plan projects accounting for budgetary, equipment and personnel considerations. Will provide tactical level assistance in crafting plans, policies and procedures for recreation management goals. Other duties as assigned.

JOB DUTIES:

50% - Essential - Recreation Infrastructure Maintenance and Repair:

Use of field data collection apps and other technology to assess and track trail maintenance needs and document repair. Coordinate with volunteers to execute scheduled repairs. Collaborate with volunteer groups on organized workdays. Operate a range of equipment; work outdoors for extended periods of time in demanding physical environments; hike long distances through uneven trail system; carry 40 lbs.; lift 50 lbs.

25% - Essential - General maintenance:

Keep public gathering areas in presentable condition by mowing, trimming and trash removal. Assist with the process of protecting trails from activities and where possible temporarily rerouting recreation activities. Maintain visible and legible signage, repair or replace signs, kiosks, maps and any other minor infrastructure as needed.

10% - Essential - Planning:

Contributes necessary information to plan recreation infrastructure projects. Provides input on recreation plans, policies and procedures. Contributes ideas for and assists in planning volunteer opportunities ranging from small group projects to large volunteer workdays.

10% - Essential - Community Engagement:

Engages in positive interactions with volunteers during scheduled maintenance or training events. Builds rapport and credibility with the community while working in the Clemson University Forest.

5% - Essential - Special Training:

Attend relevant recreation-related training courses. Obtain certification to train others in safe chainsaw operation. Obtain Wildland Fire Fighter and Wilderness First Responder certifications.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Bachelor's Degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Recreation or related field

Work Experience 1+ years in planning, establishing and maintaining trail systems and recreation infrastructure maintenance

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Master's Degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Recreation or related field

Work Experience 3+ years in similar position to Forest Recreation Specialist. Proven record of successful volunteer coordination and supervision.

Certificate in trail building. Wildland Fire Fighter and Wilderness First Responder certifications also preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Firm Job Knowledge - Firm working knowledge of concepts, practices and procedures and ability to use in varied situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervises Student Workers only - Supervises Student workers only

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

85% - Walk or move about

85% - Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc

50% - Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself

50% - Move, transport, raise or lower

100% - Perceive, observe, clarity of vision

WORKING CONDITIONS:

25% - Exposure to heat or cold

Occasional evening or weekend work may be required

Wet or humid conditions

Mechanical…