Forest Recreation Specialist

WELCOME TO CLEMSON!

Clemson University is a leading public research institution, recognized for its impact on students, faculty, and staff across South Carolina and beyond.

The Recreation Specialist will maintain and improve recreation infrastructure in the CU Forest Campus, coordinating with colleagues, interns, volunteers, and larger groups to ensure safe and effective trail operations.

• 50% – Essential:
  Recreation Infrastructure Maintenance and Repair
  Use field data collection apps and technology to assess trail maintenance needs, coordinate repairs, and operate equipment in demanding environments.
• 25% – Essential:
  General Maintenance
  Maintain public gathering areas: mowing, trimming, trash removal, and signage upkeep.
• 10% – Essential:
  Planning
  Contribute to planning recreation infrastructure projects, including input on plans, policies, and volunteer engagement.
• 10% – Essential:
  Community Engagement
  Build rapport with volunteers and the community during maintenance or training events.
• 5% – Essential:
  Special Training
  Attend relevant training courses and obtain certifications such as Wildland Fire Fighter or Wilderness First Responder.

• Bachelor's Degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Recreation, or a related field.
• At least 1 year of experience planning, establishing, and maintaining trail systems and recreation infrastructure.

• Master's Degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Recreation, or related field.
• At least 3 years in a similar Forest Recreation Specialist role with proven volunteer coordination and supervision.
• Trail building certification, Wildland Fire Fighter, and Wilderness First Responder certifications preferred.

• Strong knowledge of standard recreation management practices, trends, and programs.
• Collaboration with stakeholders, volunteers, and colleagues for project planning and resource budgeting.
• Ability to develop policies, procedures, and plans for recreation management goals.

• 85% of the role involves walking or moving outdoors, using hands or feet to handle equipment.
• Communicating and directing activities at a project site.
• Exposure to variable temperatures, occasional evening or weekend work, and mechanical hazards may occur.

Expected salary range: $45,300.00 – $61,000.00, based on experience and qualifications per Clemson’s compensation guidelines.

Work schedule:

Standard hours at 37.5 hours per week.

Location:

Clemson, SC.

Apply by April 20, 2026.

Veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified veteran applicants may receive preference if they meet the minimum qualifications and submit required documentation.

Clemson University is an Equal Opportunity/affirmative action employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law, including disability and protected veteran status.