Assistant Professor of Outdoor Leadership

This limited-term benefited position will support the instruction and mentoring of a new undergraduate program in outdoor leadership studies, building upon existing coursework in the outdoor leadership studies minor and certificate program.

Duties

1. Teach a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester in the outdoor leadership studies minor.
2. May plan, develop, and implement new course curricula for the new outdoor leadership studies degree, including field-based courses.
3. Develops syllabi and maintains materials and supplies for field-based courses that are associated with the program.
4. Follows risk management policies and procedures established for university outdoor programming.
5. Mentor students for outdoor leadership and related programs and degree plans.
6. Broadens knowledge of teaching methods, techniques and skills and maintains a supportive environment with students, other faculty and staff and supports the development of an empowering work environment.
7. Collaborates with diverse groups within and outside the university to identify internship, service learning, and practicum experiences for students.
8. Collaborate with the university’s co-curricular Outdoor Program to develop programming and promote recruitment into the degree-granting program.
9. Conducts research program or other scholarship activities suitable to a small, teaching university that accommodates the inclusion of undergraduate students.
10. Provides professional contributions within areas of expertise as appropriate.
11. Participates in departmental and University committees and special projects.
12. Provides a broad range of administrative and supervisory functions. Supervises assigned staff in accordance with WNMU personnel practices including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, guidance, etc. Participates in the process of ongoing personal and professional development. Maintains comprehensive communication among all contacts (internal and external). Models professional standards and ethics in accordance with WNMU philosophy.
13. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Background

M.S. in Recreation Management, Parks, Tourism/Leisure Studies, Adventure Education, Outdoor Recreation, Outdoor Education, Experiential Education, or other closely related field plus two years post-degree professional experience directly related to the teaching assignment required; Ph.D. preferred. Demonstrated teaching experience in higher education, experience with college/university outdoor programs, and familiarity with the Association for Experiential Education, Association for Outdoor Recreation Education, the Wilderness Education Association, National Outdoor Leadership School, Outward Bound, National Recreation and Park Association, and/or similar professional organizations preferred. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred. 

Job Knowledge

Possess a broad background in outdoor education, parks and recreation, and experiential teaching methodology. Working knowledge to build environmental literacy and social justice in environmental justice communities. Must understand professional standards of practice in the outdoor recreation industry. Working knowledge of accreditation standards for adventure programs. Experience working with diverse groups. Experience working with first-generation students in small classroom and remote field environments. Must be knowledgeable of University policies and procedures. Must be able to handle multiple deadlines and maintain accuracy. Must be sensitive to cultural differences within the University and community. Fluent in Microsoft Office Applications.

Other Requirements

a. Must be current in wilderness first responder and CPR/AED/Epinephrine certified or higher medical certification.

b. Must hold industry recognized certification(s) appropriate for specialized instruction and risk management for field experiences and activities (ACA, SPI/AMGA, etc).

c. Requires a valid New Mexico driver’s license within 6 months of hire date.

d. Must pass a Defensive Driving Course within 6 months of hire date.

To apply, visit the Western New Mexico University Human Resources page>Employment Opportunities>Faculty, or this link (https://wnmu.peopleadmin.com/postings/1780). The position will remain open until filled with a likely start date of January 2025, although an earlier start date may be possible.

More information on WNMU and our Outdoor Program: https://outdoor.wnmu.edu