Outdoor Program Director Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for providing strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Outdoor Adventures unit within the Department of University Recreation. Oversee program design, assessment, staffing, budgeting, and risk management for all outdoor adventure programs, including Outdoor Trips, Climbing Gym(s), Bike Shop, Challenge Course, Experiential programs, online Outdoor Adventures programs, and Outdoor Adventures special events. Ensures all Outdoor Adventures programming, equipment, and instructional practices align with university standards, divisional initiatives, and industry best practices.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Provides strategic leadership and direction for the Outdoor Adventures unit, including supervision of professional staff, graduate assistants, part-time staff, interns, and student employees, while fostering a culture of ongoing training, mentorship, performance management, and professional development. Leads long-range planning and strategic development for all Outdoor Adventures programs and initiatives, including staffing models, program design, facility and space planning, equipment lifecycle management, and multi-year operational recommendations. Oversees financial planning and stewardship for the Outdoor Adventures unit, including budget development, expenditure monitoring, revenue and cost analysis, and contributions to policy development and program evaluation. Directs comprehensive assessment and evaluation efforts, analyzing participation trends, learning outcomes, training effectiveness, and program satisfaction to inform decision-making and support continuous improvement. Provides operational oversight for all Outdoor Adventures programs within the Department of University Recreation, ensuring effective program design, diverse scheduling, and alignment with departmental and university standards. Oversees the development and delivery of instructional and leadership programs, including the Adventure Leadership Course and other staff-development and outdoor skill-building initiatives. Manages equipment planning and procurement processes, including research, purchasing, inventory assessment, and maintenance recommendations for Outdoor Adventures gear and resources. Ensures proper oversight of the department's vehicle fleet, including monitoring maintenance needs, operational readiness, and compliance with safety standards. Interprets and applies University, Division, and Department policies, as well as Outdoor Adventures industry best practices, ensuring compliance, clear communication, and consistency across all unit programs. Oversees risk management and safety operations for the Outdoor Adventures unit, ensuring emergency preparedness, equipment safety compliance, and staff training and certification standards. Serves as a departmental first responder within emergency response programs, providing support to staff and patrons as needed. Maintains current knowledge of industry standards and professional certifications in outdoor recreation and adventure programming to ensure evidence-based practices and ongoing program advancement. Maintains confidential patron records in accordance with university requirements and professional best practices. Assists the Director of Campus Recreation Programs and Services with special projects requiring direct involvement and subject-matter expertise. Support divisional priorities and initiatives beyond the department's scope, as assigned.

Required Qualifications Educational Requirements Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education Other Required Qualifications CPR/AED/First Aid Certification or equivalent, or must obtain within six (6) months Required Experience Seven (7) years of relevant experience in a recreation setting Previous management and/or supervisory experience

Preferred Qualifications Preferred Educational Qualifications Advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher education Preferred Experience Two (2) years of supervisory experience Experience administering outdoor adventure programs within higher education Experience teaching, training, and providing feedback to staff on outdoor program industry best practices

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities ABILITIES Able to adapt effectively to changes in policies, procedures, work assignments, priorities, and organizational culture Able to plan, coordinate, and execute large-scale, detail-oriented projects, including events, equipment purchases cycles, and outdoor adventure space renovations or maintenance. Able to develop and maintain professional contacts and resources that support program effectiveness and operational excellence. Ability to contribute to and uphold the mission, vision, and values of the University and the Department in a position of trust. Able to handle multiple tasks or projects at one time, meeting assigned deadlines KNOWLEDGE Strong commitment to teamwork, customer service, ethical leadership, and talent development. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through, with professional phone and email communication etiquette. Expertise in outdoor adventures program design, training strategies, and equipment, including evidence-based programming practices. Knowledge of industry standards and best practice guidelines related to outdoor adventures programming, equipment safety, and risk management. Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e., Microsoft Office suite) SKILLS Strong time management and organizational skills, including the ability to handle multiple tasks or projects simultaneously and meet assigned deadlines Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem-solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management, and presentation skills Strong attention to detail and follow-up skills Strong customer service skills and phone and e-mail etiquette

USG Core Values The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards.

Equal Employment Opportunity Kennesaw State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The University is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful environment for living, work and study. To that end, and in accordance with federal and state law, Board of Regents policy, and University policy, the University prohibits harassment of or discrimination against any person because of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment, pregnancy, and medical conditions related to pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity or national origin, religion, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran or military status by any member of the KSU Community on campus, in connection with a University program or activity, or in a manner that creates a hostile environment for members of the KSU community.

Other Information This is a supervisory position. This position has financial responsibilities. This position will be required to drive. This role is considered a position of trust. This position requires a purchasing card (P-Card). This position may travel 1% - 24% of the time

Background Check Credit Report Standard Enhanced Education DMV 9 Panel Lab Drug Test Per the University System of Georgia background check policy, all final candidates will be required to consent to a criminal background investigation. Final candidates may be asked to disclose criminal record history during the initial screening process and prior to a conditional offer of employment. Applicants for positions of trust with screening results which confirm a disqualifying criminal history will be immediately disqualified from employment eligibility All applicants are required to include professional references as part of their application process. Some positions may require additional job-based screenings such as motor vehicle report, credit check, pre-employment drug screening and/or verification of academic credentials.