Seasonal Outdoor Recreation Educator

University of Wisconsin Madison•Wisconsin Dells, WI

54d•$18 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Upham Woods Seasonal Outdoor Educators are the primary programmatic personnel for Upham Woods in the summer season. In that regard, this position is responsible for teaching programming and recreational activities for user groups, interacting with 4-H Youth educators and adult volunteers, other group leaders, and care for programmatic, outpost and recreational equipment, which includes the science center animals. All of the above is to be done with a focus on customer service and effective educational methods in a safe environment.

Requirements

Ability to work in a team setting with enthusiasm and creativity, and the ability to work independently
The desire to teach user groups ranging in size from 20-150 participants
Familiarity with outdoor adventure pursuits and their associated equipment, such as camping, canoeing, archery, etc.
A general understanding of the field of environmental education, natural resources, education, andâ outh development
Ability to work flexible hours any day of the week, including evening hours
H.S. Diploma or equivalent
Lifeguarding certificationâ or ability to obtain before start of employment, with certification active through August 2026. Required to lead Canoeing, Outpost, Swimming, and Blackhawk Island Hikes.

Nice To Haves

Coursework toward a bachelor's degree in education, natural science, biology, environmental education, or a related field
Ability to take responsibility for one of the specialization areas. Specialization areas include, but areâ not limited to: program animals, challenge course, technology, marketing and social media, andâ facility improvement
Professional certifications in any of the activities which we commonly offer,â such as licensed teacher, 4-H Archery, Low Ropes element challenge course, canoeing, etc.

Responsibilities

Facilitate introductory camping and canoeing experiences for older youth including sleeping in a tent and cooking outdoors for up to 3 nights.
Teach outdoor recreation programming to school and community groups ranging in size from 20-150 participants. Programs may include hiking, canoeing, orienteering, survival, teambuilding and archery.
Collaborate with team members to identify and manage risk in the outdoors.
Serve as liaison (main point of contact) for visiting groups including on call status
Facilitate meal service with dining hall staff
Prepare and maintain outdoor equipment such as tents and other camping supplies.
Support conservation projects by preparing necessary tools, safety equipment, and project materials for use on conservation project days.
Complete facility maintenance projects, trail work, and minor cleaning, as needed.
Provides assistance for units as requested, such as wiping down tables, filing, coping, sorting, and delivering mail
Performs the typical duties as required by each position according to what is needed
Acts in compliance with the standards of their job, represents the university in a positive manner, and completes the assigned tasks that are aligned to their role