University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience
University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States, 80509
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience
Join to apply for the
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience
role at
University of Colorado Colorado Springs . Overview
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) is a premier educational institution that prides itself on academic excellence, research, and community engagement and is actively seeking a
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience (SOLE)
to join our team. UCCS is committed to academic excellence, professional development, and fostering an environment that supports innovation and student success. At the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs offers a stunning landscape and a vibrant community. Salary and Work Location
Salary Range : $56,527-$70,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate upon experience and qualifications. This position is Exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime provisions. Work Location : On-Site Summary
The Program Director of SOLE leads a comprehensive portfolio of outdoor recreation and education programs designed to promote student wellness, leadership development, and campus engagement. The role oversees outdoor trips, adventure-based classes, workshops, certifications, camps, climbing wall operations, and the SOLE Center, which includes a bike and ski shop and outdoor equipment rentals. The program director supervises a team of 10–15 student employees and coordinates over 30 trips, 40 educational events, and 350+ climbing wall users annually. The position collaborates with campus partners to support student recruitment, retention, and success through outdoor experiences. The role provides strategic leadership for the SOLE program, including short- and long-term planning, budgeting, policies and procedures, facility operations, equipment management, risk mitigation, and program evaluation. The successful candidate will foster a welcoming environment, encourage broad student engagement, and use evidence-based decision-making to support program operations, student development and learning in alignment with departmental mission and values. Work Schedule
Typical hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with required evening and weekend availability. Vacation is not permitted during the week before and the first week of each fall and spring semester. Essential Functions
Leadership and Program Management
Leads strategic planning, fiscal management, facility and equipment oversight, risk management, and program evaluation for the SOLE. Oversees a portfolio including 30+ outdoor trips, 40 classes/workshops/camps, 3–4 special events, and over 350 climbing wall passes annually. Provides leadership for program budget of $200,000, including revenue generation, payroll, and operational expenses, with responsibility for development, implementation, reporting, and evaluation. Prepares and submits contracts, agreements, and permits for approval in coordination with the University Procurement Service Center and Human Resources. Designs and oversees high-quality outdoor adventure programs that promote healthy behaviors, personal growth, and team wellbeing, while meeting the diverse needs of the campus community. Collaborates with the Membership and Marketing team to maintain accurate and engaging web content and promote access to facilities, equipment rentals, and programs. Builds collaborative programming across campus with units such as Wellness, Student Life, MOSAIC, Residence Life, Academic Departments, Veteran and Military Affairs, and Intercollegiate Athletics; fosters community engagement through partnerships with local organizations including the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance. Outdoor Adventure Program
Leads and oversees outdoor adventure trips, services, and educational offerings, ensuring all activities meet established risk management standards. Reviews and approves trip plans, verifies staff certifications and training, coordinates vehicle reservations, manages pre-trip communications, and oversees participant registration. Collaborates to develop the SOLE activity calendar, including facility use, equipment needs, marketing efforts, and maintenance planning. Manages the Fusion software system to support registration, equipment rentals, bike and ski services, climbing wall orientations, and data tracking. Secures vendor partnerships to support programming, equipment procurement, and outdoor permits; responds to student and member interests by researching and developing new programs. Collaborate with the Sports and Youth Programs team to support youth camps, ensuring alignment with safety standards and outcomes. Climbing Wall
Oversees operation of the climbing wall and MoonBoard, including inspections, equipment checks, and route setting. Ensures operations comply with safety and instructional standards; designs training programs for SOLE Guest Services Desk Attendants; oversees annual climbing wall orientations. Coordinates maintenance in partnership with Facility Operations. Personnel Management and Student Development
Manages the full lifecycle of student employment for SOLE staff and volunteers; conducts evaluations and provides coaching and development opportunities. Develops training programs to enhance student employee skills and leadership; manages an in-house trip leader certification program; advocates for internship and practicum opportunities. Ensures compliance with departmental and university policies for student employment and HR. Fiscal and Resource Management
Leads fiscal planning and budget management; forecasts expenses for trips, equipment, staff training, and maintenance. Manages budgets per university policies; tracks expenditures for gear, vehicles, and marketing. Oversees equipment operations, inventory, maintenance, and replacement; evaluates fee structures; recommends capital purchases. Risk Management
Develops emergency response policies and oversees inspections and certifications for safety equipment. Maintains records and acts as a first responder when needed; supports policy development to prioritize safety. Administrative Duties
Collects and analyzes SOLE data, learning outcomes, assessments, and reports; maintains policies and operations manuals; participates in committees and professional development; supports program planning and improvement; attends Campus Recreation programs for compliance and risk management; performs other duties as assigned. Tentative Search Timeline
Priority applications by 11:59 PM November 2, 2025; postings open until filled. Interview windows: week of November 10 & 17, 2025; supervisor/appointing authority interviews in the week of December 1, 2025. Start date around January 5, 2026. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to a respectful workplace and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, UCCS does not discriminate based on sex in employment or compensation. Special Instructions to Applicants: Applications submitted by 11/2/2025 will receive full consideration. Apply at cu.edu/cu-careers (job #37995). Official transcripts required upon hire. Please provide five professional references (at least two supervisors) upon request. Posting Details: Job Category – Student Services; Primary Location – Colorado Springs; Department – C0001 -- Colorado Springs Campus; Schedule – Full-time; Posting Date – Oct 16, 2025; Unposting Date – Ongoing; Posting Contact – Chris Spencer; Posting Contact Email – cspence2@uccs.edu; Position Number – 00002392. Qualifications
Required: A bachelor’s degree; experience in administration, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive outdoor adventure programs; fiscal management skills; supervision and training of staff; risk management in adventure programming; certifications (within specified timeframes: Wilderness First Responder, Climbing Wall Instructor, Master Bike Mechanic, CPR with AED/First Aid, CSA training); knowledge of risk management and safety protocols. Preferred: Master’s Degree in related fields; demonstrated leadership in outdoor programs; strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills; experience with online systems for operations (e.g., Fusion). Additional Certifications (Preferred): Ski/Snowboard Technician, Red Cross Lifeguard, NOLS Wilderness First Aid, Risk Management for Administrators. EEO statement and policies: All employees must complete training on policies administered by the Office of Institutional Equity. See policies and resolution procedures for details. The university may modify duties as needed. Why UCCS: Equal Opportunity Employer. Special instructions and application details are provided above. Note: This job description outlines general responsibilities and is not exhaustive. University reserves right to modify duties as needed. Job categories and logistics: Campus Recreation; Colorado Springs; C0001; Full-time; Posting Date Oct 16, 2025; Unposting Date Ongoing; Contact Chris Spencer; cspence2@uccs.edu; Job number 00002392.
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Join to apply for the
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience
role at
University of Colorado Colorado Springs . Overview
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) is a premier educational institution that prides itself on academic excellence, research, and community engagement and is actively seeking a
Program Director of Student Outdoor Learning Experience (SOLE)
to join our team. UCCS is committed to academic excellence, professional development, and fostering an environment that supports innovation and student success. At the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs offers a stunning landscape and a vibrant community. Salary and Work Location
Salary Range : $56,527-$70,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate upon experience and qualifications. This position is Exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime provisions. Work Location : On-Site Summary
The Program Director of SOLE leads a comprehensive portfolio of outdoor recreation and education programs designed to promote student wellness, leadership development, and campus engagement. The role oversees outdoor trips, adventure-based classes, workshops, certifications, camps, climbing wall operations, and the SOLE Center, which includes a bike and ski shop and outdoor equipment rentals. The program director supervises a team of 10–15 student employees and coordinates over 30 trips, 40 educational events, and 350+ climbing wall users annually. The position collaborates with campus partners to support student recruitment, retention, and success through outdoor experiences. The role provides strategic leadership for the SOLE program, including short- and long-term planning, budgeting, policies and procedures, facility operations, equipment management, risk mitigation, and program evaluation. The successful candidate will foster a welcoming environment, encourage broad student engagement, and use evidence-based decision-making to support program operations, student development and learning in alignment with departmental mission and values. Work Schedule
Typical hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with required evening and weekend availability. Vacation is not permitted during the week before and the first week of each fall and spring semester. Essential Functions
Leadership and Program Management
Leads strategic planning, fiscal management, facility and equipment oversight, risk management, and program evaluation for the SOLE. Oversees a portfolio including 30+ outdoor trips, 40 classes/workshops/camps, 3–4 special events, and over 350 climbing wall passes annually. Provides leadership for program budget of $200,000, including revenue generation, payroll, and operational expenses, with responsibility for development, implementation, reporting, and evaluation. Prepares and submits contracts, agreements, and permits for approval in coordination with the University Procurement Service Center and Human Resources. Designs and oversees high-quality outdoor adventure programs that promote healthy behaviors, personal growth, and team wellbeing, while meeting the diverse needs of the campus community. Collaborates with the Membership and Marketing team to maintain accurate and engaging web content and promote access to facilities, equipment rentals, and programs. Builds collaborative programming across campus with units such as Wellness, Student Life, MOSAIC, Residence Life, Academic Departments, Veteran and Military Affairs, and Intercollegiate Athletics; fosters community engagement through partnerships with local organizations including the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance. Outdoor Adventure Program
Leads and oversees outdoor adventure trips, services, and educational offerings, ensuring all activities meet established risk management standards. Reviews and approves trip plans, verifies staff certifications and training, coordinates vehicle reservations, manages pre-trip communications, and oversees participant registration. Collaborates to develop the SOLE activity calendar, including facility use, equipment needs, marketing efforts, and maintenance planning. Manages the Fusion software system to support registration, equipment rentals, bike and ski services, climbing wall orientations, and data tracking. Secures vendor partnerships to support programming, equipment procurement, and outdoor permits; responds to student and member interests by researching and developing new programs. Collaborate with the Sports and Youth Programs team to support youth camps, ensuring alignment with safety standards and outcomes. Climbing Wall
Oversees operation of the climbing wall and MoonBoard, including inspections, equipment checks, and route setting. Ensures operations comply with safety and instructional standards; designs training programs for SOLE Guest Services Desk Attendants; oversees annual climbing wall orientations. Coordinates maintenance in partnership with Facility Operations. Personnel Management and Student Development
Manages the full lifecycle of student employment for SOLE staff and volunteers; conducts evaluations and provides coaching and development opportunities. Develops training programs to enhance student employee skills and leadership; manages an in-house trip leader certification program; advocates for internship and practicum opportunities. Ensures compliance with departmental and university policies for student employment and HR. Fiscal and Resource Management
Leads fiscal planning and budget management; forecasts expenses for trips, equipment, staff training, and maintenance. Manages budgets per university policies; tracks expenditures for gear, vehicles, and marketing. Oversees equipment operations, inventory, maintenance, and replacement; evaluates fee structures; recommends capital purchases. Risk Management
Develops emergency response policies and oversees inspections and certifications for safety equipment. Maintains records and acts as a first responder when needed; supports policy development to prioritize safety. Administrative Duties
Collects and analyzes SOLE data, learning outcomes, assessments, and reports; maintains policies and operations manuals; participates in committees and professional development; supports program planning and improvement; attends Campus Recreation programs for compliance and risk management; performs other duties as assigned. Tentative Search Timeline
Priority applications by 11:59 PM November 2, 2025; postings open until filled. Interview windows: week of November 10 & 17, 2025; supervisor/appointing authority interviews in the week of December 1, 2025. Start date around January 5, 2026. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to a respectful workplace and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, UCCS does not discriminate based on sex in employment or compensation. Special Instructions to Applicants: Applications submitted by 11/2/2025 will receive full consideration. Apply at cu.edu/cu-careers (job #37995). Official transcripts required upon hire. Please provide five professional references (at least two supervisors) upon request. Posting Details: Job Category – Student Services; Primary Location – Colorado Springs; Department – C0001 -- Colorado Springs Campus; Schedule – Full-time; Posting Date – Oct 16, 2025; Unposting Date – Ongoing; Posting Contact – Chris Spencer; Posting Contact Email – cspence2@uccs.edu; Position Number – 00002392. Qualifications
Required: A bachelor’s degree; experience in administration, implementation, and evaluation of comprehensive outdoor adventure programs; fiscal management skills; supervision and training of staff; risk management in adventure programming; certifications (within specified timeframes: Wilderness First Responder, Climbing Wall Instructor, Master Bike Mechanic, CPR with AED/First Aid, CSA training); knowledge of risk management and safety protocols. Preferred: Master’s Degree in related fields; demonstrated leadership in outdoor programs; strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills; experience with online systems for operations (e.g., Fusion). Additional Certifications (Preferred): Ski/Snowboard Technician, Red Cross Lifeguard, NOLS Wilderness First Aid, Risk Management for Administrators. EEO statement and policies: All employees must complete training on policies administered by the Office of Institutional Equity. See policies and resolution procedures for details. The university may modify duties as needed. Why UCCS: Equal Opportunity Employer. Special instructions and application details are provided above. Note: This job description outlines general responsibilities and is not exhaustive. University reserves right to modify duties as needed. Job categories and logistics: Campus Recreation; Colorado Springs; C0001; Full-time; Posting Date Oct 16, 2025; Unposting Date Ongoing; Contact Chris Spencer; cspence2@uccs.edu; Job number 00002392.
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