Temporary Guide - WVU Jackson's Mill

WVU Jackson’s Mill Temporary Adventure Guide

WVU Jackson's Mill is currently accepting applications for a Seasonal Temporary Adventure Guide. The main term of employment will run from mid‑May to mid‑August, assisting the Program Coordinator of Outdoor Education and Recreation with outdoor programming for travel teams and school groups that use WVU Jackson's Mill as their camp location. Guides will also help with non‑programmatic tasks on an as‑needed basis, serve as overnight staff for groups, and supervise campers in cabins.

All applicants must undergo the Children on Campus vetting process, including Title IX training, Child Protection training, and a background check, as well as undergo mandatory, in‑person training in mid‑May. Prior experience as an outdoor guide, camp counselor, or similar position is preferred. Guides must be on campus and ready to work at a designated time and day each week, with weekends expected for some weeks and minimal breaks between camps.

Four openings are available.

• Assist the Program Coordinator of Outdoor Education and Recreation with outdoor programming, including:
  • Canoeing and kayaking
  • River tubing
  • Tango Tower operations
  • Fire safety and building
  • Axe and knife throwing
  • Biking
  • Outdoor games
  • Low ropes facilitation
• Assist with maintaining outdoor programming equipment.
• Supervise campers and other groups during the day and during other camp activities.
• Provide overnight supervision of campers in cabins when needed.
• Enforce the rules of the camps and WVU Jackson’s Mill.

• Transport campers in a 15‑passenger van when needed.
• Assist with history, STEAM, and other camp activities.
• Assist with non‑programmatic tasks to support operations (e.g., dining hall cleaning and dishes, organizing storage spaces).
• Lifeguard during pool hours (dependent on certification).
• Other duties as assigned.

Length of Assignment
:
Approximately 4 months
Work Hours
: 37.5 hours per week

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent by the end of the 2025–26 academic year.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid, CPR, and AED certification valid for the entire employment period (training will be provided if not certified).
• Experience as a camp counselor, outdoor guide, or similar position.
• Familiarity with working with youth.

Schedule

• Training:
  May 17–22; half‑day rate paid for training.
  • Optional lifeguard training:
    May 14–17 (subject to change); no pay during this training but lodging provided.
• First group’s arrival:
  June 5
• Estimated end of summer camp season:
  August 16 (subject to change)
• Required weekends:
  June 5–7;
  June 12–14;
  July 3–5 (subject to change)

Supervisor

• Program Coordinator of Outdoor Education and Recreation – Jeff Schmoll

Pay

• $125 per day (half days prorated)

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age by time of hire.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from WVU Jackson’s Mill.
• Ability to lift 25 pounds.

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career‑oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology‑intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work‑life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values – service, curiosity, respect, accountability, and appreciation – unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.