Program Assistant, Outdoor Education & Leader

Westminster University Program Assistant, Outdoor Education & Leadership

Position Type: Temporary, Full-Time (Benefited)

About the Role:

The Program Assistant (PA) provides leadership and support in the areas of program delivery/logistics, academic support, technical skill instruction, group dynamics, risk management, and emergency response on the Westminster Outdoor Education and Leadership (OEL) Field Semester. The PA serves as the single consistent staff and instructor throughout the entire semester. They are a liaison between the OEL faculty, who will rotate throughout the semester, and the field semester students. They also play an essential role in the development, cohesion, and maintenance of the Field Semester student and staff community for the entirety of the semester.

This is a temporary position for Fall 2026 semester. In addition to salary, compensation will include access to healthcare benefits, plus food, lodging, transportation, and access to a 16-hour swiftwater rescue training and Wilderness First Responder recertification (via a standard WFR course format.) Employment dates: 8/17/2026 – 11/16/2026; some minor negotiation on start date is possible.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; preference given to degrees with emphasis in Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education & Leadership, or related field
• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification
• Experience instructing extended outdoor expeditions with multiple activities and modes of transport
• Demonstrated leadership experience and conflict management skills
• Demonstrated competence in front and backcountry camping skills and risk management in the outdoors
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Strong desire and ability to mentor, support, and build rapport with college students
• Clean driving record; ability to become certified driver (including pulling a trailer) through Westminster University

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with a similar semester-long academic field-based program
• Intermediate or advanced skill level and the ability to effectively instruct the following outdoor activities: backpacking, whitewater paddling, rock climbing, and/or canyoneering
• Advanced skill certifications (i.e. SPI, SWR, etc.) in at least one technical outdoor skill or comparable experience

Essential Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License: A current and valid driver’s license must be always maintained during employment.
• Proof of Insurance: The employee must provide and maintain proof of personal auto insurance that meets Westminster’s minimum coverage requirements.
• Mileage Reimbursement: Westminster reimburses mileage at the standard IRS mileage rate.
• Driving Record: Employment is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory driving record as determined by a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check.
• Compliance with Laws: The employee must comply with all local, state, and federal traffic laws while performing job-related driving duties.
• Liability & Accidents: Employees must report any accidents, traffic violations, or license suspensions that occur while driving for work-related purposes.  Employee is responsible for any expense related to traffic violations, or license suspensions that occur while driving for work-related purposes.
• Job-Related Travel Costs: Expenses related to tolls, parking, and other job-related travel costs will be reimbursed according to company policy.

Responsibilities:

Under the direction of the OEL Field Semester Lead Faculty, the Program Assistant will:

• Provide leadership and instruction to students
• Deliver and facilitate course content, as needed
• Assist with management of logistical details
• Track curriculum delivery throughout the semester through record keeping/communicating with OEL faculty
• Manage risk effectively in diverse and often unpredictable environments
• Facilitate group development
• Assist with camp duties including camp setup, cooking, leading students, etc.
• Transport students and faculty in a Westminster vehicle
• Perform other duties as assigned

Application Instructions:

Please submit the following materials as part of your application:

• Your most up-to-date résumé

• A cover letter expressing your interest in the position and highlighting your relevant qualifications

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Westminster University is committed to a diversified workforce, equal opportunity, and nondiscrimination. To this end, Westminster prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment based on race or ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, disabilities, genetic information, status as a veteran, or any other category or classification protected by applicable federal, state, or city laws.