Program Facilitator

Common Ground Center for Community Renewal • Oberlin, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Looking to add some adventure to your work life this year? Common Ground is currently seeking individuals interested in a job that blends outdoor adventure with education. We're on the lookout for dedicated program facilitators who can lead school groups, workplace teams, and community organizations through activities designed to enhance teamwork and group dynamics. As a facilitator, you'll be instrumental in leading participants through a variety of activities, from engaging games and puzzles to navigating low elements and conquering our high ropes course. Whether you're a seasoned facilitator, considering a career change, or a student looking for a rewarding and fun summer job, we welcome individuals at all experience levels. This position can vary in weekly hours significantly, so if you desire regular and consistent hours, we recommend that you also cross-train and work other positions at Common Ground, such as Canopy Tours or Summer Camp. We provide comprehensive training covering facilitation skills and technical expertise related to high ropes course operations. If you're ready to embark on a rewarding journey at the intersection of education and adventure, Common Ground is eager to hear from you. Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in adventure education! Season: April-October with peaks in May/June, and August/September. Reports to: Challenge Course Supervisor(s) Position Type: Part-Time, Flexible/Seasonal (Work on an as-needed & as-available basis.) Compensation: $120/day (average 6 hours per day) Training Dates: April 28- May 2, 2026 and May 21-22,2026 General Job Functions: Lead and facilitate 3-6 hours of educational, adventure, and skill building experiences for a variety of youth and adult groups, usually during school or workday hours, and occasionally during the evenings or on weekends. Prior to the group's scheduled adventure, review the group's goals and activities in efforts to provide a high quality learning adventure. Inspect and document equipment, program area, and elements before and after use. Properly climb and set up the high ropes course and facilitate at-height elements and activities according to training and operating procedures. Greet and welcome all participants and convey a clear description of program participation. Create a fun, engaging, and secure atmosphere for learning which include age and skill-appropriate challenges that are in alignment with the group's goals and outcomes. Encourage and lead reflection opportunities throughout the day to explore connections to work, school, and everyday life. Serve as a role model for all participants. Be prepared to respond to emergency situations in an effective and timely manner according to Common Ground's policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Desire to work outdoors in a variety of weather and appreciate a flexible schedule.
• Must be at least 18 years old and possess a High School Diploma or equivalent (College degree in education, psychology, social work, or similar area preferred).
• Must successfully pass FBI/BCI Background Check.
• Must successfully complete training and pass verification.
• For High Ropes, able to work at heights of up to 40 feet and able to maneuver on the course.
• Practices attentive/active listening and has the patience to hear people out.
• Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive and negative situations; listens and gets clarification; responds wells to questions.
• Capable of working as part of a larger team in terms of staff and the overall organization.
• Focuses on team and organizational goals, needs, and outcomes.
• Ability to effectively work with diverse populations and age groups.
• Contributes to a positive and supportive team culture with differing personalities.
• Performs a wide variety of tasks and changes focus quickly as demands change.
• Possesses a keen attention to detail and the ability to remain calm and collected while facing stressful situations.
• Ability to set up and facilitate at-height activities approximately 20-25 ft. off the ground.

Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate 3-6 hours of educational, adventure, and skill building experiences for a variety of youth and adult groups, usually during school or workday hours, and occasionally during the evenings or on weekends.
• Prior to the group's scheduled adventure, review the group's goals and activities in efforts to provide a high quality learning adventure.
• Inspect and document equipment, program area, and elements before and after use.
• Properly climb and set up the high ropes course and facilitate at-height elements and activities according to training and operating procedures.
• Greet and welcome all participants and convey a clear description of program participation.
• Create a fun, engaging, and secure atmosphere for learning which include age and skill-appropriate challenges that are in alignment with the group's goals and outcomes.
• Encourage and lead reflection opportunities throughout the day to explore connections to work, school, and everyday life.
• Serve as a role model for all participants.
• Be prepared to respond to emergency situations in an effective and timely manner according to Common Ground's policies and procedures.

Benefits

• Paid training provided at $12/hour.
• Flexible scheduling around other job & school commitments
• First Aid/CPR Certification provided.
• FBI/BCI Criminal Background Check provided.
• Options to train and work as a Canopy Tour Guide, Recreational Tree Climbing Facilitator, and/or Summer Camp Positions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED