Western New Mexico University

This announcement is for staff positions available through the Outdoor Program. Responsibilities will include the daily operations of The Outpost, WNMU's outdoor gear rental facility located in Barnard Hall as well as assistance with ongoing outdoor initiatives, particularly related to the National Park Service, the US Forest Service and others. These positions are for the 2020/2021 school year (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021). Hiring preference given to students pursuing a minor in Outdoor Leadership Studies, Geographic Information Systems Science, Outdoor Behavioral Health, or Natural Sciences.

• Outdoor background and equipment knowledge is helpful, but the willingness to try new things is more important than experience.
• (Gear Rental only) Complete gear inspections and inventory as assigned
• (Gear Rental only) Possess knowledge of outdoor equipment, rental procedures, inventory, and general gear repair.
• (Gear Rental only) Reliably open, manage, and close The Outpost during scheduled business hours
• (Gear Rental only) Greet all patrons in an outgoing and positive demeanor
• (Gear Rental only) Maintain gear rental database using Google sheets and Access database
• (Gear Rental only) Clearly complete all rental agreements and store in the proper place
• (Gear Rental only) Maintain The Outpost, keeping it clean and orderly at all times
• (Gear Rental only) Respond to patrons' concerns and inquiries in a timely manner
• (Gear Rental only) Contact patrons concerning damaged equipment and/or late equipment
• (Gear Rental only) Inform patrons about late fees and student account holds
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff must demonstrate an excellent work ethic, dependability, motivation, and ability to work independently. 
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; social media a plus
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff  Educate patrons about all Outdoor Program rental policies and procedures
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Participate in University-sponsored events as an Outdoor Program Representatives
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Educate patrons about Outdoor Program offerings including trips and courses
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Participate in all in-service training sessions, mandatory meetings, and staff development workshops
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Load and unload equipment from vans for university-sponsored trips
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Communicate effectively and reliably with Program Director and other faculty/ staff as needed
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff Prepare gear for university-sponsored trips (e.g. stuff sleeping bags and tents, gather cooking equipment)
• ALL Outdoor Program Staff General duties as assigned
• Research associate: All of the above, willingness to attend local and regional meetings and engage with stakeholders;  skills with GIS a plus

• Ability to engage in conversation with patrons about the equipment set up, care, use, etc.
• Ability to discuss equipment options and applicability for patrons needs
• Ability to check-out and check-in rental equipment utilizing rental agreement and assist patrons with an online interface
• Ability to answer The Outpost telephone and direct questions to the OP Director, appropriate university department or other support staff
• Ability to demonstrate the proper use of equipment to patrons
• Ability to assess needed repair of equipment
• Ability to lift 30 pounds overhead
• Ability to communicate and respond to texts, emails, and phone calls in a timely manner.
• Ability to work weekends and regular business hours
• Working knowledge of mountain bikes, kayaks, boats, and backpacking equipment, including tents. (Strong applicants with little experience will be trained) 
• Willingness to work with students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds
• Ability to foster an inclusive space for students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds

• Must be a current WNMU student. Preference will be given to a student pursuing the Outdoor Leadership Studies or Geographic Information Systems Science minor and students interested in Outdoor Behavioral Health or Natural Science fields