Assistant Director of Campus Recreation - Outdoors

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The University of Mississippi is seeking a talented Assistant Director of Outdoors to join our team at the Department of Campus Recreation. 

Campus Recreation provides outstanding services, inclusive programs, and educational opportunities to empower the University of Mississippi community in the pursuit of lifelong well-being. The department strives to be a flagship program on our campus, in our state, and nationally in the field of collegiate recreation. As the largest employer of students at the university, the department emphasizes student employment as a high-impact practice.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -Student & Academic Services

Sub-Family -Recreation Programs

Career Track / Level - P2

Grade -5

Role Summary

Oversees logistics for one or more recreation programs to promote effective delivery of recreation programs to the student body. 

Our anticipated start date for this position would be May 12, 2025. 

Examples of Work Performed

• Directs all programs and activities associated with the department’s comprehensive outdoor recreation program including; scheduling, marketing, promotions, budget, purchasing, record keeping, certification, program development and assessment, and student personnel.
• Recruits, hires, trains, schedules, monitors payroll, and evaluates student employees and graduate assistants.
• Develops and administers plans to minimize risks associated with participation in outdoor programs.
• Oversees the outdoor gear rental program including inventory, purchasing, maintenance, and repair.
• Oversees the Rebel Challenge Course, indoor climbing tower, and bouldering wall including group reservations, maintenance and upkeep, certification offerings, and programming which includes adaptive recreational offerings.
• Develops and implements a comprehensive adventure trip program.
• Maintains accurate records of activities. Prepares reports as requested.
• Coordinates assessment for the outdoors program by creating questionnaires and other tools to assess needs.
• Assists in the development, implementation, and assessment of departmental and program area goals and objectives.
• Represents the Department of Campus Recreation and The University of Mississippi on various committees, boards, and associations.
• Attends local, state, and national workshops and conferences; hosts and presents at various workshops.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Schedules logistics and secures resources for unit events and programs.
2. Procures and maintains unit program equipment and supplies.
3. Assists in the development of program policies, guidelines, and procedures.
4. Develops targeted communication plans and materials based on established goals, under close supervision.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree (in Recreation Administration, Leisure Management, Physical Education, Sports Administration or a related field)

Experience: (3) Three Years Experience

Certification Requirements:
Incumbent must hold one or more of the following certifications, or have the ability to obtain the certification within six (6) months of employment: Wilderness First Responder, Climbing Wall Manager, and/or ACCT Level 1 Challenge Course Facilitator.

An equivalent combination of related experience and education may be considered for this role. Substitutions of the required experience or education will be assessed on a 1:1 substitution basis.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Master's Degree in Recreation Administration, Leisure Management, Physical Education, Sports Administration or a related field from a college or university.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.