Princeton University’s Outdoor Action (OA) program within the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students (ODUS) seeks an energetic, collaborative, and innovative candidate to serve as Program Coordinator. For over 45 years, the Outdoor Action program has provided opportunities to experience outdoor adventure for the Princeton University community. From facilitating a multi-day outdoor trips for nearly half of the first-year class of students, to offering leadership development training in outdoor and facilitation skills, to hosting day and overnight outdoor experiences, the goal of Outdoor Action is to provide an opportunity for all students to engage with the outdoors.

Reporting to the director of Outdoor Action, the program coordinator will play a central role in the training and development of student leaders as well as the planning and implementation of the outdoor orientation program. Working collaboratively to develop programs that are inclusive and welcoming, the program coordinator works in assessing programs to meet the needs of the student population. This position supervises and serves as a mentor to student leaders in teaching and developing their skills to lead outdoor experiences for their peers. The program coordinator develops and manages experiential opportunities for student leaders to practice their skills in the field. In planning and implementing programs, the program coordinator works with University departments on logistics, risk, safety, and supplies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordination and Logistics

• Primary responsibility includes the overall coordination of the operational logistics of the Orientation Frosh Trip program and training trips. This includes the following:
  • Develop daily itineraries for approximately 90 multi-day trips annually
  • Transportation logistics
  • Equipment ordering
  • Menu planning
  • Assign Leaders and Participants to trips based on individual needs, preferences, and abilities.
• During academic year, establish training schedule and coordinate logistics (room reservations, course materials, manager rosters, etc.).
• Co-manage, in coordination with the Director, twenty-four hour/day communications call-center during Orientation, handling priority calls and executing emergency response protocols.

Student leadership development, training and supervision

• Assist the Director in the professional development of Outdoor Action leaders and student staff, by jointly designing curricula and delivering training and leadership programs and retreats.
• Work closely with several different groups and committees of OA student leaders. Responsibilities include hiring and selection, as well as on-going supervision and mentorship.
• Support backcountry training trips by providing guidance and feedback to Trip Leaders and assessing the effectiveness of curriculum.
• Facilitate week-long outdoor leadership development experiences 1-2 times per year in order to train a small group of student leaders in more advanced leadership and interpersonal skills.

Administrative Oversight

• Assist the Director with the overall annual budget, with a particular focus on the budget for leader training.
• Process financial transactions, including reimbursements and vendor payments.
• Provide budget reports, monitor expenses, and reconcile accounts in coordination with department manager.
• Purchase supplies and program items.

Data Management and Support

• Implement and maintain database for menu planning and food ordering for backcountry trips that accommodate a variety of dietary needs.
• Maintain database to assign leaders and participants to specific trips/groups based on individual needs and preferences.
• Maintain records of attendance and certifications of leaders-in-training.
• Develop and administer surveys and assessments of program.

Equipment and Facility Management

• Manage two equipment storage facilities of over 4000 sq. ft. total.
• Maintain inventory and system development to track maintenance and replacement.
• Develop and oversee equipment rental, distribution policies, and fees.
• Provide safety checks on all equipment in consultation with director.
• Research and purchase equipment as needed.

Communication and Marketing

• Develop a marketing and communication plan for OA activities in collaboration with ODUS manager of strategic communications.
• Collaborate with OA staff to produce social medial content and regular email newsletters, as well as maintain the OA website.
• Develop and implement an annual marketing strategy and recruitment plan for recruiting new student leaders for Orientation.

Other Duties as Assigned

• Work with the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students team as directed by the director of Outdoor Action and/or associate dean for student programs and/or deputy dean of students.
• Serve as a Free Expression Facilitator.

QUALIFICATIONS

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Knowledgeable in outdoor education theory and student leadership development in a higher education context
• Experience with first aid and emergency care and risk management of field-based programs
• Experience in leading multi-day camping and backpacking trips
• Strong skills in writing for program documentation and marketing
• Excellent analytical, organization, problem solving, and communication skills, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Strong interpersonal skills as well as a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and interact effectively and collaboratively with students, faculty members, alumni, and administrators.
• Sensitivity to the needs and concerns of students from diverse backgrounds.
• Availability to work a number of nights and weekends during the academic year in order to ensure proper oversight of programs and events.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field or 1-3 years work experience
• Experience with program development and logistical operations in planning itineraries and instructing multi-day outdoor trips
• Experience in student advising and mentoring
• Experience developing curricula, protocols, and training materials
• Familiarity with orientation and/or transition programs within higher education
• Experience with rock climbing, canoeing, biking and other outdoor activities
• CPR certification and Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness EMT certification