Trip Leader (Poly Escapes)

Definition and Purpose 

Under the supervision of the Coordinator - Outdoor Recreation, the Trip Leader is responsible for planning, organizing, and safely leading outdoor trips for the Cal Poly campus community. This position requires a commitment to the ongoing training and development of oneself and others in the program.  This position is expected to help maintain trip equipment inventory and work closely with the Poly Escapes Student Manager on all trip equipment needs, repairs, and replacements.  The Trip Leader is expected to assist all other Poly Escapes employees in their mission of providing student development opportunities through outdoor recreation programming and education.  

ASI is committed to supporting the aspirations of the University Learning Objectives. Our employees are expected to make reasoned decisions based on ethics, respect for diversity, and an awareness of issues of sustainability. Additionally, they will work productively as individuals and in groups while communicating effectively. 

Requirements

Educational Requirements and Qualifying Experience 

• Must be a currently enrolled student at Cal Poly with a minimum of 6 units. Graduate students must carry 4 units. 
• Wilderness First Aid and/or Wilderness First Responder certified 
• CPR/AED certified  
• Experience teaching, leading or managing a group 
• Organizational abilities and experience 
• Experience planning, facilitating, and evaluating outdoor trips 
• Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of outdoor trip gear 

Supervisory Responsibilities 

• Supervise and manage all trip participants and ensure a safe environment for all 
• Serve as a role model for all Poly Escapes staff 
• Participate in and contribute to both self-evaluation and the evaluation of others 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Complete all pre-trip and post-trip paperwork in a timely manner  
• Respond appropriately to all accidents and incidents 
• Provide an inclusive environment for all customers and participants 
• Mentor fellow members of the program as they are on-boarded and trained  
• Attend all staff meetings and training  
• Facilitate and practice proper gear use  
• Demonstrate appropriate limit- setting techniques with participants  
• Respond effectively to participants and co-leader verbal and non-verbal cues and feedback  
• Practice and teach the principles of “Leave No Trace”  
• Awareness of and appreciation for individual uniqueness and diversity  
• Adhere to all ASI departmental policies and procedures  
• Provide quality customer service to all staff and customers  
• Track and return all rental and trip equipment prior to and after each trip 
• Make certain all checkout procedures for equipment are executed according to policy 
• Abide by and enforce all ASI and campus security regulations regarding confidential and private information 
• Display awareness of all ASI and staff area policies; enforce policies as necessary 
• Maintain the integrity of the ASI philosophy and brand 
• Attend all meetings, workshops, and retreats 
• Maintain a positive work environment though interaction with staff, peers, and superiors 

Specific Requirements 

• Must have a genuine interest in outdoor recreation and education 
• Experience in organized outdoor recreation programs is desirable with demonstrated competencies in leadership, student development, developing and tracking inventory and risk management 
• Working knowledge and understanding of Poly Escapes either as a participant or past staff member is preferred 
• Understand the practical and safe use of all outdoor equipment available at the Poly Escapes Rental Center 
• Ensure all aspects of Poly Escapes are kept clean and orderly 
• Be informed on all happenings in Poly Escapes 
• Attend and participate in bi-weekly staff meetings 
• Some knowledge of financial and accounting skills is preferred 
• Able to maintain inventory of Poly Escapes Equipment 
• Awareness of safety and risk management procedures 
• Able to work closes with the Coordinator of Outdoor Recreation to implement new ideas and maintain the success and integrity of Poly Escapes 

Diversity and Inclusion 

• Recommend and support practices intended to eliminate racial, gender, or any other form of bias in processes, policies, and procedures 
• Demonstrate awareness of one’s own biases, comfort levels, and various aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) 
• Demonstrate effort to understand each person’s individual and collective role in creating inclusive environments 
• Commit to continuous learning/improvement in DEI and cultural competence 
• Work with director to review department’s policies, procedures, & practices related to DEI and participate in addressing barriers identified 

Other Duties and Responsibilities 

• The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in ASI policy as a condition of their employment. 
• Other duties as assigned 

Benefits

Compensation and Hours 

• Hourly Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour
• Hourly Pay Range: $16.00 per hour - $16.00 per hour 
• Maximum 20 hours per week while attending academic classes. Maximum hours are subject to change while leading or participating in trips.

May require late nights, weekends, and holidays

Requires a minimum of 3 consecutive quarters

The Associated Students, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Date revised: 11/28/2022