Recreation Program Specialist at the Root Farm

Inspire Growth Through Adventure, Nature, and Experiential Learning. Are you passionate about outdoor recreation, adventure-based education, and creating meaningful experiences that help people reach their full potential? The Root Farm is seeking an enthusiastic and innovative Recreation Program Specialist to develop and lead inclusive recreation and outdoor education programs that connect individuals of all abilities to nature, agriculture, animals, and community.

About the role

In this dynamic role, you'll design engaging experiences rooted in adventure-based learning, experiential education, team building, and personal growth. From facilitating challenge course activities and outdoor education programs to building partnerships with schools and community organizations, you'll help create opportunities that foster confidence, leadership, resilience, and belonging. Whether you're leading a field trip, facilitating a ropes course experience, or helping participants connect with the farm through hands-on learning, you'll play a vital role in delivering impactful programs that make a lasting difference.

Responsibilities

• Design and facilitate inclusive recreation, outdoor education, and adventure-based education programs for individuals of all ages and abilities.
• Lead challenge course, low ropes, team-building, and experiential learning activities that promote communication, problem-solving, leadership, and confidence.
• Create engaging opportunities that connect participants with agriculture, animals, and the natural environment.
• Deliver educational and recreational experiences that encourage personal growth, independence, and social connection.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with schools, colleges, community organizations, youth groups, and businesses.
• Coordinate field trips, outdoor learning experiences, team-building events, and community recreation programs.
• Expand The Root Farm's reach as a destination for experiential and adventure-based programming.
• Coordinate staff and volunteers to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment for all participants.
• Serve as a role model for teamwork, safety, creativity, and continuous learning.
• Facilitate outdoor recreation and challenge course activities in accordance with industry safety standards.
• Monitor program outcomes and participant feedback to continuously improve experiences.
• Maintain recreation equipment, challenge course elements, and outdoor learning spaces.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• At least 12 months working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Experience in outdoor education and challenge course facilitation.
• Ropes/Challenge course certification preferred.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• Knowledge of Therapeutic Recreation and Positive Behavior Supports.
• Ability to make independent decisions and ensure safety.
• Valid NY State Driver’s License (travel required).

Skills

We encourage candidates with experience in any of the following areas to apply:

• Adventure-Based Education
• Outdoor Education
• Experiential Learning
• Therapeutic Recreation
• Environmental Education
• Challenge Course or Ropes Course Facilitation
• Team Building and Leadership Development
• Youth Development Programs
• Inclusive Recreation Programming
• Agriculture or Nature-Based Education

Benefits

We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to creating an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally. Our workplace offers opportunities to grow, learn, and make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced, collaborative atmosphere. We also offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision Coverage
• Low-cost individual health insurance plan
• Dollar-for-dollar retirement match (up to 7%)
• Retirement Plan 403(b)
• Life Insurance & Voluntary Benefits
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Generous PTO Plans (Sick, Vacation, Employee Leave)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Service Awards & Employee Appreciation Events
• Employee Discounts
• Direct Deposit

Pay

$25 - $28 an hour

About The Root Farm

The Root Farm is dedicated to creating inclusive, innovative programs that connect people of all abilities with nature, agriculture, and recreation. We believe in fostering community partnerships and providing meaningful experiences that promote growth, learning, and fun. Upstate Caring Partners is the premier provider of direct-care services and programs in Central New York for individuals of all abilities and their families.