Who can apply for Climbing Wall and Adventure Staff positions?

Positions are open to all SMU community members. Outside persons may apply but will be subject to different requirements, qualifications, and application processes.

What about work study?

Currently, only the Climbing Wall and OAC positions are work study eligible. Adventure Staff schedules are based on available trips, clinics, and events, and probably would not be consistent or advisable for a work study student.

How much time does it require?

Climbing Attendants will have regular shifts determined by a set number of hours per week. A minimum of 12 hours/pay period or 2-weeks of available work time is required to be classified as regular staff with additional benefits. Most of these hours would be during the weekday evening and weekend. Pay will be on an hourly basis. There may be more opportunities for additional hours and pay with advancement, special events, group wall rentals, staff meetings, and paid in-service training.

Adventure Staff are paid for “field” time or on-the-job, and subject to the outdoor recreational opportunities and individual staff member’s personal schedule.  We require a lot from our trip staff so expect to dedicate some time and energy into your outings and the program.  Adventure Staff may also earn additional hourly pay in the OAC performing outdoor equipment rental and maintenance.

In addition, all staff no matter the position are required to attend specific in-service trainings and meetings.  These events are typically paid.

How many positions are available?

Unfortunately, we don't have an unlimited staffing budget so opportunities may be limited to available vacancies.   Because our positions are not limited to academic semesters (i.e. unless performance related), most SMU OA staff stay employed with the program throughout their time at SMU.  This has been the major contribution to our small but dedicated community of SMU OA staff.

SMU OA philosophy is quality vs. quantity but we have to do this and meet our commitment to the SMU community.  Our main interest is in the person regardless of experience.  A friendly, service oriented, mature attitude and willingness to learn often overshadows experience. 

Our goal is to find individuals willing to perform multiple duties in the various areas.  Typically, Trip Leaders will lead trips through OA Trips and may also work in the OAC and/or Climbing Center.  Climbing Center staff may work in the OAC too. 

What kind and how much experience are required for these positions?

Although experience is preferred, it is not a requirement. All new employees are required to complete an in-house training. Depending upon previous experience, individuals can advance quickly or may require more time gaining important skills and experience.  Our overall goal is the safety of our participants and staff.  In the outdoors, this is not always easily accomplished through the completion of a "class" but many times based on the trip leaders accumulated experience. 

Experience can range from personal experience to relevant employment  and is important in determining the applicant’s personal suitability to perform the necessary requirements and duties. For example, it is an advantage to Climbing Wall Attendant applicants to have some indoor or outdoor climbing experience. If an individual is not comfortable with heights or climbing, perhaps this is not the position for him/her.

Experience for Adventure Staff can be defined in a broader range. Experience should not be exclusively defined as outdoors, but may incorporate leadership and customer service experiences.

Is there opportunity to move up or advance?

Climbing Wall Attendants and Adventure Staff can advance with demonstrated technical skills, leadership abilities, and commitment. Climbing Wall Attendants can advance to supervisors and/or route setters with an increase in benefits, pay, and flexible scheduling. Adventure Staff can move up to Trip Leader status earning top pay and first pick of the choice trips. As seniority becomes a factor, staff members will have a greater influence in the direction and development of the individual program area.

What else is expected of me and what can I expect from these positions?

We expect dedication and commitment to the program, to co-workers and to SMU community.  Staff have the unique opportunity to be leaders and the "go-to source" on-campus for outdoor recreation.  Dedication and commitment can be measured in time, energy and enthusiasm.  Much of which is not paid.  Advancement, raises, and additional benefits depend upon demonstrated contributions to the program.  For your efforts, you can expect to earn additional benefits and provide valuable input into a growing program.

Benefits can be in the form of discounted or free rental equipment, discounted trips and clinics, free trainings, and “pro deals” (opportunities to purchase equipment and clothing at discounted costs directly from distributors or manufacturers). In addition to all this stuff, you get leadership experience, marketable skills for your resume, and the opportunity to visit wonderful places and do incredible things with great people.

How do I apply?

Applications are available at the OAC (located on the bottom floor of Dedman through fitness) and the Climbing Center or you may download the on-line Adventure Application on the Staff page.  Be sure to complete it with information relevant to the position applying. Bring the completed application to the Department of Recreational Sports professional offices located at the entrance to the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports.  Or mail to:

SMU Outdoor Adventures
PO Box 750161
Dallas, TX 75275

Once the application has been received, it will be circulated among our hiring committee comprised of veteran staff.  Because we believe in creating and maintaining a community, our staff will have as much input as possible into our new staff selection process.  The committee will then provide their recommendations to SMU OA and an interview session will be scheduled.  It is not uncommon for the interview process to include committee members.