Outdoor Recreation Intern

The Outdoor Recreation Intern will be assigned to one of the areas of the Outdoor Program: Camps/Paddlesports or Challenge Course/Climbing Wall. While the majority of the Intern’s time is allocated to a designated program area, opportunities to work in the other Recreation teams are encouraged and scheduled; Special Events & Group Program Services, Interpretive & Environmental Education, and Community Education. This position requires early morning/late night, weekend and holiday work.

Location: Varies - 2 candidates will be selected to observe operations at throughout Charleston county

Duration: May - August 2024

Job Duties:
· While working with the Outdoor Program, we anticipate (dependent on applicant’s skills and desires) to serve as a camp counselor to include day camps and multi day expeditions.
· Assist in the day to day operations and management of facility and programs.
· Supervise and assist part-time staff in the performance of their duties.
· Observe personnel matters to include interviewing, training and evaluating part-time staff.
· Respond to special requests, complaints and suggestions from park visitors in an effective manner.
· Assist in the development and implementation of ongoing staff training and incentive programs.
· Participate in the setup, implementation and evaluation of park special events.
· Actively meet with staff to understand the needs, concerns and direction of customers, staff and the agency.
· Ensure that all activities and operations are conducted in accordance with established procedures and policies.
· Enforce personnel rules, safety regulations and general facility rules for visitors and participants.
· Submit written or oral reports as needed to include, but not limited to: incident reports, progress reports.
· Plan, organize, perform and evaluate a special project as required.
· Work with other divisions and staff to enhance cross divisional awareness.
· Perform other duties as required.

Requirements:
· Outdoor skills in paddling, climbing, mountain biking, and challenge course facilitation are preferred.
· Ability to function outdoors in a wide range of weather conditions.
· Ability to swim.
· Ability to provide outstanding customer service to our visitors.
· Ability to follow instructions effectively and to work with minimum supervision in a responsible and competent manner; to readily accept directions from those in a supervisory capacity; to be able to accept constructive criticism without resentment; and to project good public relations.
· Ability to prepare both oral and written reports as required.
· Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with fellow employees; deal courteously and firmly with the public; demonstrate good judgment, tact and courtesy, good physical health.
· Ability to remain flexible and open minded to new challenges and ideas.
· Ability to make suggestions and share observations.
· Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug test.
· Maintain a valid vehicle operator’s license and reliable transportation.

Training and Experience:
Must be a student currently enrolled in a college or university actively taking classes working towards a bachelor’s or upper level degree. Must be at least a sophomore, but preferably a junior in standing, with some upper level coursework completed towards their degree. Must be recommended by their college or university.

Working Conditions and Physical Abilities:
Work is a combination of office and outdoor environments. Must possess a clear speaking voice and the ability to communicate. This position requires a professional demeanor and an orientation towards customer service. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb or balance, and smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to risk of electrical shock. Employee should be comfortable working at heights to at least 50 feet and sitting in a boat for long periods of time. Employee will be working in the outdoors and will be susceptible to sun, rain, wind, heat, cold, and biting insects. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Some travel and extended field placement may also be required.

Extra Benefits
Along with competitive pay, we offer some pretty terrific benefits including:
• Free admission to all of our parks and facilities – and that includes beaches and all three waterparks!
• Free admission to a variety of special events.
• Discounts on food, beverage, and gift shop items.
• Free beach chair and umbrella rentals and free pedal boat and bike rentals.
• Opportunity for growth and to gain skills such as teamwork, leadership and adaptability.
• A Charleston County Parks employee ID also opens doors for you for free admission at more than 25 participating attractions around town!

OPEN UNTIL FILLED – APPLICATION REVIEW BEGINS IMMEDIATELY