University Outdoor Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job #
042783
Department Code
40307-7503
Department
Student Experience
Job Title
Temporary Challenge Course Community Staff
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
$16.80 - $20.00 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
Hours may vary based on operational needs.
Job Type
Temporary
Unionized Position Code
Not Applicable
Job Description
Challenge Course facilitators work with Lead Facilitators and Challenge Course Managers to provide safe, effective programming in high ropes, low ropes and portable initiative activities under the direction of the Lead Facilitator.
Challenge Course Facilitators are responsible for:

• Daily Inspection of Challenge Course Elements.
• Setup and take down of challenge course elements.
• Instruction and facilitation of games, initiatives and challenge course activities.
• Facilitation of group development and educational outcomes (as planned by the Lead Facilitator).
• Assist in the completion of daily paperwork documenting operations and incidents.
• Employment is on a casual, as needed basis, and assignments are on a first come basis.

Education and Experience

• Current CPR/AED and First Aid Training (or willingness to become certified as such).
• Experience facilitating or participating in group processing/planning discussions.
• Familiarity with group/team development.
• Trained on SU Challenge Course Standard and local operating procedures.
• Demonstrates excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing, to both participants and other staff members.
• Ability to relate and work with diverse populations of participants.

Skills and Knowledge

• Show competency in the technical skills associated with the challenge course operation, including knots, belay skills and personal protective equipment such as harness and helmets.
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid Training (or willingness to become certified as such).

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates ability to use sound judgment to keep safety a high priority.
• Arrives prepared to facilitate by having reviewed program goals and Lead Facilitators program plan. Where necessary, plans games and processing questions.
• Team oriented and dedicated to the goals set forth by the Syracuse University Outdoor Education Program.
• Works as a team member with others in scheduling, facilitating, and operating the SU Indoor and Outdoor Challenge Course.
• Responds to scheduling requests in a timely manner.
• Is reliable when scheduled. Arrives at facilitation site on time.
• Maintains a commitment to the success of the course.
• Follows Challenge Course standard and local operating procedures, and the program plan set by the Lead Facilitator.

Physical Requirements

• Challenge Course Facilitators should have the ability to perform their required duties for extended periods of time while exposed to adverse conditions including, but not limited to, rough terrain, precipitation, temperature extremes, and wind.

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 over 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, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University's 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 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 http://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/112990
Job Posting Date
05/05/2026
Application Deadline
Full Consideration By
Job Category
Temporary
Message to Applicants