Outdoor Education Specialist

Overview

Colgate University is a special place to work and offers many unique opportunities, including the ability to work with and among world class faculty and staff at a highly selective residential liberal arts institution. This position provides an opportunity to become familiar with the variety of regular positions that are available at the University, as well as the ability to add employment at a distinct University to your resume.

Successful candidates for this position will earn sick leave, paid time off, free parking, and a University ‘Gate Card’ that provides access to fitness facilities, athletic and cultural events, as well as a discount on many items at the University Bookstore.

Appointments are limited to no more than 999 hours per year for all positions combined. If the employee works more than 999 hours in a year, the appointment may not continue beyond one year of service.

As a casual wage staff member, you may be called to work in various capacities to facilitate break trips, staff training, climbing wall events, ropes course facilitation, and/or physical education classes for the student body, including but not limited to facilities such as the Outdoor Education Rental Center, Angert Family Climbing Wall, and various remote outdoor environments. Hours will be variable and will include weekend days, and hours outside of normal business hours.

Some positions may last for a few hours, whereas some may be full weeks (i.e. spring break trips) depending upon need. Job duties will be based upon the needs of the facility, activity program, and skills required.

Temporary employees support full-time Outdoor Education staff by providing a specific skill set to enhance programming for student staff and/or participants.

Are you passionate about outdoor adventure and have experience or certifications in various outdoor education skills? We’re looking for an enthusiastic and experienced individual to join our team and share your expertise with students and staff.

• Whitewater kayaking
• Sea kayaking
• Wilderness Adventure Pre-Orientation Trips

In addition, you should be comfortable working with a diverse group of faculty, staff, and students, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.

• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR certifications (unless applying for in‑town work, like at a climbing wall or ropes course)
• A valid driver’s license may be required depending on the position

• Previous experience working with university‑aged students.
• Relevant knowledge about a specific location, region, or natural environment.

High school diploma or equivalent.

• Proficiency in performing specialized skills related to outdoor activities with competence and confidence.
• For certain activities, the ability to work long hours outdoors in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, freezing temperatures, and more, often in remote locations.
• Strong decision‑making skills, particularly in assessing safety and ensuring high‑quality programming, even under physically demanding conditions.

The University recognizes that equal employment opportunity can only be achieved through demonstrated leadership. It is the Policy of the University to recruit, employ, retain, promote, and train employees on the basis of skills and experience, capacity to do the job, and valid job qualifications without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.