Adjunct Faculty SAGE Health & Fitness, Walking and Hiking

About the role

The SAGE Program is seeking an energetic and organized Walking & Hiking Instructor to lead outdoor walking and hiking sessions for older adult learners. The instructor will be responsible for previewing walking routes, coordinating participants by fitness level, and ensuring safety and engagement during all walks. The instructor will create a welcoming and supportive environment for older adults participating in the program.

Responsibilities

• Plan, preview, and assess walking and hiking routes for safety, accessibility, and suitability for varying fitness levels.
• Lead walking and hiking groups, adjusting pace and route as needed to accommodate participants’ abilities.
• Provide guidance on proper walking techniques, outdoor safety, and wellness practices.
• Monitor participant engagement, provide encouragement, and promote social interaction.
• Assist in scheduling walks and communicating logistics to participants.
• Maintain a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for older adult learners.
• Plan, organize, and teach curriculum content in alignment with course goals and learning outcomes.
• Complete mandatory institutional trainings and professional development activities as required.
• Prepare a course syllabus in accordance with department and division guidelines.
• Facilitate engaging and accessible instructional activities that support student learning.
• Monitor and document student participation and progress using tools or methods provided by the department; share feedback as needed.
• Provide an orientation during the first class session that includes (as applicable) an overview of the course syllabus, objectives, expectations, and required materials.
• Inform students of key course dates and any necessary schedule or content adjustments.
• Maintain accurate attendance and participation records; submit required documentation by established deadlines.
• Participate in departmental evaluation and course assessment activities as directed.
• Respond to student emails and phone calls within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays); maintain regular communication using the assigned PGCC email account.
• Attend all required departmental and institutional meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Associate’s degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Health Education, Gerontology, Physical Education or related required. Equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree depending on the course content/subject matter.
• One year of experience in teaching or working with older adults (age 60+), including an understanding of age-related learning needs, cognitive and physical changes, and how these affect instructional strategies.
• National fitness certification (ACE, ACSM, AFAA or equivalent).
• Current CPR/AED certification.

Skills

• Knowledge of subject matter and demonstrated expertise in the relevant discipline or content area.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles, particularly as they relate to older adult learners (age 60+), including cognitive, physical, and sensory considerations.
• Knowledge of best practices for inclusive instruction, learner engagement, and culturally responsive teaching.
• Working knowledge of learning management systems, including course design, content organization, and assessment tools.
• Knowledge of common barriers to learning faced by senior populations and strategies to mitigate them.
• Awareness of community-based lifelong learning models and the purpose of non-credit enrichment programming.
• Knowledgeable in planning, delivering, and assessing effective instruction across a variety of formats.
• Strong written and oral communication skills in standard English; multilingual skills are a plus, especially in languages commonly spoken by the local senior population.
• Skill in using instructional technology to enhance learning, communication, and engagement.
• Skill in time management, organization, and lesson preparation.
• Skill in problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict resolution within the classroom setting.
• Ability to create a respectful and positive learning environment that supports student participation and success.

Requirements

• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have the use of sensory skills to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public using the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment, such as, but not limited to, personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine. No significant climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions.
• OTHER REQUIREMENTS: As required by the 1986 Immigration Act, be prepared to present acceptable documentation showing your identity and that you are a U.S. citizen or an alien who is authorized to work. A background investigation will be conducted prior to the offer of employment. A signed authorization for the release of personal information will be required if selected for an interview.