Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The AURORA Outdoor Orientation Programs of the Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management Department in the College of Health and Human Development are seeking an Assistant Director. This position is integral to the success of AURORA and will support the program’s director in all aspects of the program’s delivery.
Through our backpacking expeditions and community service-based experiences, AURORA seeks to support incoming students as they transition to life at Penn State. Our mission is to foster a sense of belonging amongst our students, create a space where they can make meaningful connections with their peers, and help empower them to confidently tackle the start to their Penn State experience.
This position will work closely with the director throughout the year to enable the delivery of these experiences. Additionally, this position will support the large part-time staff that AURORA hires each year to facilitate the field experiences for incoming students.
What You’ll Do:
Support the director with preparation and planning for AURORA’s field experiences throughout the year including, but not limited to:
Maintaining inventory of gear and supplies
Reserving spaces, transportation, and service partners
Manage student recruitment efforts throughout the year, including tabling events, online resources, communications, and more.
Support partners with student registration, including communication with registered students prior to program experiences.
Maintain information databases and records for both students and staff.
Edit and update various digital and printed program materials.
Support the director with the delivery of field experiences and staff trainings, including management of logistical details, delivery of content, and more.
Desired Skills and Qualifications:
Trip leading experience, specifically backpacking
Wilderness First Aid experience (Wilderness First Responder preferred)
Leave No Trace experience (Level 1 or Level 2 Instructor preferred)
Wilderness Medicine Instructor (preferred)
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
Application Instructions
For full consideration, candidates must include a cover letter and resume with their application.
Who We Are
AURORA is a program run by passionate individuals seeking to make an impact on the world around us. We value communication, empathy, and a diversity of opinions. We are situated within the Recreation, Park and Tourism Management (RPTM) Department. RPTM values community, curiosity, respect, and inclusivity. RPTM seeks to positively impact the health and well-being of people and places by engaging communities and individuals of all backgrounds through the administration, leadership, and management of recreation, parks, tourism, and sport.
Schedule:
This position will work in-person on campus but will include occasional travel to field experiences and time off-site. Additionally, this position will generally work a typical M-F work schedule. At certain times of year, this position will be required to be on-call in case of emergency, and will work atypical hours, nights, and/or weekends as needed during the delivery of field experiences.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.