Part-Time Outdoor Adventures Course Instructor, Recreational Sports

IU OUTDOOR ADVENTURES (BA-IUOA-IUBLA)

The Office of Student Life is focused on building a strong foundation to ensure every student’s Indiana University (IU) experience is positive, safe, healthy, and meaningful. Staff and multiple departments within the Office of Student Life aim to help students navigate their time at IU, providing the tools they need to be successful in school and after graduation. Students are our priority, and their health, safety, and overall well‑being are our core mission.

Recreational Sports is part of the Office of Student Life, which is dedicated to supporting students’ health, safety, and success throughout their IU experience. The Recreational Sports mission is to connect, inform, and inspire individuals to lead active, healthy lifestyles. Serving over 36,000 students, faculty, staff, and community members annually, we offer a wide variety of programs across 2 multipurpose facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, adventure spaces, and more.

Our team includes 46 professional staff and over 800 student employees.

At Recreational Sports, we believe in creating exceptional experiences through genuine connection and welcoming opportunities. Student employees play a vital role in shaping our programs and are encouraged to grow through leadership and collaboration. Whether you’re looking to build professional skills or simply be part of a dynamic team, Recreational Sports offers a fun, supportive environment where you can thrive.

The IU Outdoor Adventures (IUOA) Course Instructor is responsible for direct instruction of assigned academic course in outdoor recreation courses (Backpacking, Climbing, Mountain Biking, Paddling, Canoeing, Kayaking, and Whitewater Rafting), leading outdoor recreation trips, mentoring student trip leaders while fostering a positive and welcoming environment, and engaging students in experiential learning. This position offers a unique opportunity to guide outdoor adventures, provide academic instruction on outdoor skills, and develop future leaders through mentorship.

• Develop and implement course materials, including syllabi, assignments, and assessments.
• Work directly with the IUOA Academic Coordinator and course leader team to develop class itineraries, plan course routes, collect waivers, and create group gear forms and risk management plans.
• Provide in‑class instruction, hands‑on demonstrations, and guidance for students enrolled in Outdoor Adventure courses, grade student papers, and respond to questions and concerns.
• Foster a positive and engaging learning environment for students.
• Mentor and support student trip leaders by providing guidance on leadership, outdoor skills, group management, and safety protocols.
• Plan, lead, and facilitate outdoor trips such as backpacking, kayaking, canoeing, and rock climbing for students and staff.
• Ensure the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of participants by providing clear instructions, managing group dynamics, and responding to emergencies when necessary.
• Share knowledge on outdoor skills, environmental stewardship, and Leave No Trace principles, creating a learning environment for participants and student trip leaders.
• Collaborate with other instructors, trip leaders, and outdoor adventure staff in trip planning, gear preparation, and risk management.
• Complete all necessary documentation, including trip reports, incident reports, and equipment inventories.
• Offer regular feedback and conduct debrief sessions to help student leaders grow in their roles.
• Assist with the development of student leadership opportunities within the program.

• High school diploma or equivalent (such as HSED or GED).

• Experience in outdoor leadership, guiding, or instructing.

• Experience teaching outdoor education or recreation‑related academic courses.
• Experience working with college students or youth groups in outdoor settings.

• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification or the ability to obtain certification prior to leading trips.
• CPR certification or ability to obtain certification.