Trip Leader (Poly Escapes)

Definition and Purpose

Under the supervision of the Coordinator I – 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 Coordinator I – Outdoor Recreation 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.

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 certification required
• Current American Red Cross certification in the following: Adult CPR, AED, and First Aid is required within 30 days of hire, training provided by ASI.
• Experience in organized outdoor recreation programs with demonstrated competencies in leadership, student or participant development, inventory tracking, and risk management preferred
• Experience teaching, leading or managing a group
• Strong organizational abilities
• Experience planning, facilitating, and/or evaluating outdoor trips
• Working knowledge of outdoor trip gear
• Basic knowledge of budgeting and spending tracking preferred

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all trip participants and ensure a safe environment for all

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Complete all pre-trip and post-trip paperwork in a timely manner
• Respond appropriately to all accidents and incidents
• Provide a positive and 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
• Respond effectively to participants and co-leader verbal and non-verbal cues and feedback
• Practice and teach the principles of “Leave No Trace”
• 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
• Stay informed 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
• Participate in and contribute to both self-evaluation and the evaluation of others
• 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
• Maintain inventory of Poly Escapes Equipment
• Maintain awareness of safety and risk management procedures
• Work closely with the Coordinator I - Outdoor Recreation to implement new ideas and maintain the success and integrity of Poly Escapes
• Plan and prepare trips for the Cal Poly student body

Background Check

This position is subject to a background check (including criminal records) as well as National Address Locater (Social Security Number [SSN] Trace), 7 year County Criminal Search in each county and/or state the applicant lived in based on the SSN Trace, National Criminal Database Search, Name Search, Employment Verification (All employers in past 7 years) and Education Verification (Highest Degree). Credit Reports, Motor Vehicle Record Check and Professional License Verification may also be required based upon the essential functions of the position.

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

Compensation and Hours

• Hourly Pay Rate: $16.50 per hour
• Hourly Pay Range: $16.50 per hour - $16.50 per hour
• Maximum 20 hours per week while attending academic classes. (Maximum hours are subject to change while leading or participating in trips.)

Requires late night, weekend, and holiday work.

Requires a minimum of 3 consecutive terms of work availability.

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

Date revised: 11/05/2025