Manager, Outdoor Adventure

Job Summary:

Responsible for the leadership, administration, and strategic oversight of the Outdoor Adventure program, including climbing wall operations, trip programming, adventure programming, equipment rentals, special event programming, and risk management. Position supervises student staff, develops engaging and inclusive outdoor recreation experiences, ensures compliance with industry and University safety standards, and manages program resources to promote student engagement, leadership development, and participant well-being.

Essential Functions:

• Staff Supervision: recruit, hire, train, schedule, and evaluate a team of student employees that support outdoor adventure program operations and fosters a customer service-oriented work environment while promoting student staff development and leadership.
• Rock Wall area supervision: oversee the daily operations of the indoor climbing wall and bouldering arch that ensures a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment. Develop and maintain operating procedures that comply with industry standards and best practices for climbing wall operations.
• Adventure Programming and Trip Management: design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive outdoor adventure program including day trips, overnight excursions, clinics, and experiential learning opportunities. Coordinate all logistical aspects of adventure programming including space allocation, transportation, permits, lodging, risk assessments, participant communication, and trip documentation.
• Equipment Rentals: manage the outdoor equipment rental program, including inventory management, purchasing, maintenance, repair, replacement planning, and lifecycle tracking. Develop rental policies and procedures, pricing structures, and reservation processes via facility management software.
• Risk Management: develop, implement, and continuously evaluate comprehensive risk management plans for all outdoor adventure programs and facilities. Ensure compliance with university policies, industry standards, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Conduct routine inspections of facilities, equipment, and program sites to identify and mitigate potential hazards. Maintain certifications, staff training records, waivers, and operational documentation.
• Special Event programming: develop and facilitate experiential team building and leadership development programs for university departments, student organizations, summer camp programs and external clients as necessary. Contribute to departmental revenue generating initiatives including birthday party rentals.

Licenses/Certifications Required:

• CPR, First Aid, & AED certified
• Wilderness First Aid certified or ability to obtain within 3-months of hirs
• Preferred Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, Climbing Wall Instructor, Single Pitch Instructor

Education: relevant Bachelor’s Degree

Experience: Requires a minimum of 1 year experience in managing and providing instruction in recreational sports programming such as canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, sailing, climbing, etc.  Supervisory experience of staff and/or students, strong oral and written communication skills, and ability to work a non-traditional work week. Computer skills to include Microsoft Office suite of programs and membership/facility management software.  

Application Deadline: September 3, 2026

Compensation: The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Application Instructions: in order to be considered for this position, please attach the following documents

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• List of 3 Professional References

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:

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Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees.  The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus.  As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search. 

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.