Penn State is hiring an Outdoor Adventures Winter Break Expedition Leader

Penn State is looking for an Outdoor Adventures Winter Break Expedition Leader to lead extended outdoor trips for the Department of Campus Recreation. You will be responsible for the full trip lifecycle, from planning and preparation to execution and post-trip tasks, ensuring a safe, educational, and engaging experience for participants.

What You'll Do

• Lead extended outdoor trips including hiking, backpacking, caving, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and mountaineering.
• Drive University vehicles and trailers to transport participants and equipment.
• Teach technical skills, facilitate positive group development, and manage risks in the field.
• Supervise meal preparation and communicate effectively with co-leaders.
• Plan trips by developing itineraries, planning menus, requesting equipment, and communicating with participants.
• Complete all pre-trip and post-trip paperwork, including reports and peer feedback.
• Perform post-trip tasks like equipment cleanup and return.

What We're Looking For

• Successful completion of the 10-day Outdoor Leadership Training Course.
• A valid Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR (or higher) certification.
• Documented outdoor and adventure leadership experience via an experience log.
• The skills, knowledge, and experience to lead trips in at least 1 core outdoor activity.
• A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check.
• Successful completion of standard background check(s).

Team & Environment

You will be part of the Department of Campus Recreation within Penn State Student Affairs, contributing to a program that provides transformative outdoor experiences.

Work Mode

This is an onsite position based at Penn State, requiring physical presence to lead trips and manage equipment.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to advancing equity, respect, and belonging, and we value individual uniqueness as an essential element of our mission.