Freelance Field Trip Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job #
042761
Department Code
40307-7503
Department
Student Experience
Job Title
Part Time Adventure Trip Leader
Location
Syracuse, NY
Campus
Syracuse, NY
Commitment to On-Campus Experience
Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.
Pay Range
$16.00 Per Hour
Pay Determination
Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate's education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university's strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.
Staff Level
00
FLSA Status
Non-exempt
Hours
Adventure Trip Leaders will work on a rotating monthly schedule, choosing which trips they'd like to lead. Trips are primarily on the weekend and hours will vary. The employee will have a set schedule and will be asked to take additional shifts if operations needs change.
Job Type
Part-time
Unionized Position Code
Not Applicable
Job Description
As the hub for student wellness, the Barnes Center at The Arch features programs, services and offerings that promote holistic health and well-being, all in one accessible, centralized space on campus.
Adventure Trip Leaders are responsible for leading groups of students on and off campus to various locations for a variety of adventure activities. This is an exciting opportunity for students who are passionate about the outdoors, peer leadership, and creating meaningful experiences for fellow students.
Activities include, but are not limited to:

• Apple Picking
• Backpacking
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Day Hiking
• Downhill Ski and Snowboarding
• Horseback Riding
• Snowshoeing
• Whitewater Rafting
• Other seasonal outdoor adventures

Education and Experience

• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Outdoor Adventure Trip Leaders should have the ability to perform their required duties for extended periods while exposed to adverse conditions including, but not limited to; rough terrain, precipitation, temperature extremes, wind, etc.

Skills and Knowledge

• Demonstrated interest in outdoor recreation, adventure programming, or related field.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in dynamic or challenging environments.

Responsibilities
Trip Management

• Check attendees onto the bus prior to departure from campus and from trip destination, ensuring accurate headcounts and roster details.
• Verify that all attendees are registered and have completed all required paperwork and necessary details (waiver, phone number, etc.) prior to departure from campus.
• Communicate trip logistics, expectations, and safety information to all participants.
• Participant Engagement
• Actively engage in activities alongside participants to foster community, belonging, and group enthusiasm.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and energetic environment for all skill levels.
• Serve as a positive role model and ambassador for the Outdoor Recreation Adventure Trip Program.

Leadership & Safety

• Lead trip activities when required, based on each trip's needs, and the leader's qualifications as such.
• Monitor participant well-being throughout the trip and respond appropriately to injuries, emergencies, or behavioral concerns.
• Follow all risk management protocols and vendor / partner safety guidelines.

Addressing On-Site Issues

• Serve as the first point of contact when issues arise in the field, using good judgment to respond in a calm, professional, and timely manner.
• Address participant questions, discomfort, conflicts, or behavioral concerns on-site, ensuring all participants feel safe and supported throughout the experience.
• Maintain open communication with the supervising coordinator before, during, and after the trip; promptly notify the supervisor of any significant incidents, injuries, participant concerns, or deviations from the planned itinerary.
• Respond proactively to unexpected situations such as weather changes, vendor or partner issues, transportation delays, or participant medical concerns, keeping participants informed and escalating to a supervisor when the situation warrants it.
• Complete an incident report and debrief with the supervising outdoor recreation manager following any on-site issue of significance.

Administrative Duties

• Attend all required pre-trip meetings and / or training.
• Connect with supervisor as needed to ensure strong communication around clear expectations and trip logistic details.
• Submit post-trip report forms in a timely manner.
• Submit hours worked for trip duties in a timely manner using approved protocol.

Time Commitment

• Availability on trip dates (typically weekends and select weekdays).
• Attendance at mandatory staff orientation and ongoing training sessions.

Participation in pre-trip planning meetings.
Physical Requirements

• Outdoor Adventure Trip Leaders should have the ability to perform their required duties for extended periods while exposed to adverse conditions including, but not limited to; rough terrain, precipitation, temperature extremes, wind, etc.

Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and nearly 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors and 100 minors offered through 13 schools and colleges; nearly 15,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit www.syracuse.edu.
About the Syracuse area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University's contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
Quick Link
https://www.sujobopps.com/postings/112922
Job Posting Date
04/29/2026
Application Deadline
Full Consideration By
Job Category
Temporary
Message to Applicants
Syracuse University is interested in candidates who have the communication skills and cross-cultural abilities to maximize their effectiveness with diverse groups of colleagues, students and community members. Women, military veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of other traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Syracuse University is an equal opportunity employer, as well as a federal contractor required to take affirmative action on behalf of protected veterans.