Job Descriptions
University Recreation at Western Michigan University only hires for positions in the Student Recreation Center during open-call meetings held once every semester. Positions for intramural sports and fitness are taken based on varying schedules based on program needs. Please visit their pages for more information as it pertains to employment meetings.
Facilities
Climbing wall staff
Supervises the open climbing times at the indoor wall and teaches climbing clinics and team building activities. This position also maintains equipment inventory and assists with equipment purchases. Previous climbing experience or certification not required, but preferred. Must be available to work evenings.
Customer service specialist
The customer service specialist is responsible for serving the patrons of the rec center while carrying out routine duties. They are responsible for assisting patrons inquiries over the phone and in person, perform all cash register transactions at the service desk and provide back up to the facility manager.
Facility associate
The primary responsibilities of a facility associate include the following areas:
- provide authorized access to the Student Recreation Center for patrons.
- monitor and maintain the weight room and make sure that all equipment is being used safely.
- perform preventative maintenance on exercise equipment and assist with equipment set up in the building
Facility manager
The facility manager is responsible for serving the patrons of the Student Recreation Center while carrying out routine and special duties. They are in direct contact with all patrons and employees of the facility. Facility managers are senior employees that are responsible for all activities and employees of all areas of the Student Recreation Center.
Lifeguard
Lifeguards are responsible for supervision of all programs and operations in the pool and require lifeguard training, professional rescuer CPR and first aid certifications.
Fitness
Fitness instructor
Fitness instructors promote and maintain health and fitness by conducting aerobics and cycling classes. Instructors can teach a variety of class levels and give instruction on the use of stability ball, bands, steps and other aerobic equipment ensuring safety of class members. They also can select appropriate music type and speed for participants and demonstrate techniques to the beat of music, all while moving class members towards their fitness goals. Continuous updates to job knowledge are completed by participating in staff meetings and educational opportunities. Certification preferred, but training available.
Personal trainer
Personal trainers are responsible for introducing personal training services to new and existing members, conducting fitness assessments, providing personal training instruction, increasing member participation and providing customer service. Employees must have general knowledge on nutrition and weight, cardio and sports-specific training. Current CPR and personal trainer certification are required at time of application.
Intramural sports
Official
Officials are responsible for officiating flag football, basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer, hockey, dodgeball and other intramural sports. All officials will be provided with sport-specific training and are paid on a per game basis. Officials will be responsible for controlling games to which they are assigned and enforcing rules and safety precautions. Experience is a plus, but not required.
Site manager
Site managers are responsible for the supervision of sports officials and operation of events during intramural competition. Duties include scheduling of sports officials, sports leagues and disciplinary action. Site managers are expected to volunteer for special events such as the Turkey Trot and any tournaments that may be held by the department. This position requires the ability to work nights and weekends on a rotating schedule.
Graduate assistants
University Recreation currently offers two graduate assistant positions. As a graduate assistant at Western Michigan University, you will develop the necessary skills to prepare you for a professional position upon graduation. You will have the opportunity to be involved with development, implementation, leadership and decision making. Areas our graduate assistants may work include:
Facilities & student development
The facilities graduate assistant assists in the overall management and operation of University Recreation facilities. Additionally, the graduate assistant may assist with hiring, training, scheduling, supervising and evaluating student facility employees.
Fitness and wellness
The fitness and wellness graduate assistants develop, implement, market and evaluate fitness programming, including group exercise and personal training. They are also work cooperatively with the assistant director of fitness and wellness with the planning and expansion of the employee wellness program.
Intramural sports
The intramural sports graduate assistants assist in the development, implementation and evaluation of Western Michigan University’s intramural sports programs for students, faculty, staff, alumni and other rec center members.