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Kanuga Conferences, Inc
Position: High Adventure and Risk Management Coordinator
This is a full-time position classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
About Kanuga
Kanuga, an independent non-profit organization established in 1928, is a 1,400-acre retreat and learning center nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. With a deep commitment to outdoor stewardship, Kanuga offers year-round programs that connect people with nature, foster personal growth, and build a sense of community. While historically affiliated with The Episcopal Church, Kanuga welcomes a diverse audience—including schools, nonprofits, and businesses—through its retreat center, summer camps, and environmental education initiatives.
Position Overview
Outdoor education is central to Kanuga's mission. Leveraging the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem, Kanuga engages thousands annually in environmental experiences that inspire a deeper connection to the natural world. Kanuga’s Outdoor Education and Experience Team plays a vital role in delivering high-quality outdoor education and supporting all outdoor initiatives, including programs offered through the Mountain Trail Outdoor School (MTOS).
The High Adventure and Risk Management Coordinator focuses on the planning, coordination, and delivery of High Adventure programming while overseeing risk management across all outdoor education and experience offerings. The coordinator will facilitate activities like climbing and other adventure-based experiences, ensuring participant safety, program excellence, and alignment with Kanuga’s mission of connecting people with nature.
Responsibilities:
- Program Leadership:
- Plan, organize, and lead High Adventure programs, including activities on the climbing wall, challenge courses, and natural rock wall, ensuring they are engaging, safe, and inclusive for all participants.
- Collaborate with the Outdoor Education and Experience Team Leaders to integrate High Adventure programming into broader Kanuga initiatives.
- Mentor and support seasonal staff involved in High Adventure activities.
- Risk Management:
- Develop, implement, and maintain risk management protocols for all outdoor programing and activities.
- Conduct regular safety inspections of equipment and activity sites, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Oversee incident reporting and evaluation to improve safety practices and mitigate future risks.
- Staff Training:
- Facilitate training programs for staff and trip leaders in adventure-based activities, risk assessment, and emergency response.
- Provide ongoing mentorship, evaluation, and skill development for seasonal staff.
- Logistics and Operations:
- Manage the maintenance, inventory, and replacement of High Adventure equipment and supplies.
- Manage relationships with all third party contractors for certification, inspection, and maintenance related to proper adventure facilities upkeep.
- Coordinate with internal teams to schedule activities and allocate resources effectively.
- Guest Engagement:
- Provide exceptional facilitation of group activities, fostering positive and memorable experiences for participants of all ages.
- Promote inclusivity and cultural awareness, creating welcoming environments for diverse participants and staff.
Qualifications:
- Required:
- Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR/AED certifications (Wilderness First Responder preferred).
- 2+ years of experience facilitating High Adventure programming
- Strong knowledge of High Adventure programming and risk management principles.
- Proven ability to lead groups in outdoor settings with diverse participants.
- Preferred:
- Certifications in outdoor recreation or education (e.g., AMGA, ACA, NOLS, Outward Bound, WEA, LNT).
- Certification(s) in climbing and/or challenge course facilitation ( e.g. ACCT, PICA, AMGA)
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
- Experience training or mentoring outdoor leaders and staff.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, rain, and cold.
- Comfortable working at heights, including on ladders, platforms, and belay systems.
- Regular lifting and carrying of equipment (up to 50 lbs).
- Prolonged standing, walking, kneeling, and bending during activities.
- Hiking up to 3 miles while carrying a backpack and leading groups.
Work Schedule and Benefits:
- Flexible schedule required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays during peak programming seasons.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
- 403(b) plan with employer matching.
- Generous PTO including vacation, sick days, and holidays.
- Access to mental health resources and short/long-term disability coverage.
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