The EDGE – Employment FAQ
COME WORK WITH US! NOW HIRING SEASONAL & PART-TIME STAFF ON A ROLLING BASIS
Our facilitators are important for what we do. We know our team makes an impact on each individual who spends time with The EDGE. We see that in the testimonials and in the clients who keep returning year after year. Our facilitators run the gamut from college students to teachers to professionals in the field of organizational development and everything in between.
*No Prior Experience is Necessary* Our comprehensive training will prepare you to facilitate, no prior challenge course experience is necessary. Those who do have prior experience also are encouraged to apply.
Who We Serve. As a facilitator, you will work with small groups of participants who visit The EDGE. The majority of our clients consist of School, Community, and University Groups. In one week, you may work with fifth graders, First Generation college students, and serve as a belayer at our Alpine Tower.
Flexible Hours. Our programming can occur seven days a week, mornings, afternoons, and evenings. We see some facilitators every day and some once a month, depending on a variety of factors. While we need everyone on board in our busiest season, many find this work a good fit between other interests and priorities. Programs are busiest March to October, though there is year-round programming. Additionally during the summer, we run summer camps for youth.
Our program is rooted in the theory of Experiential Learning as they apply to self-discovery and team development. One of the best parts of experiential learning is the transferrability of skills. This rings true to facilitators as well. Those who facilitate with us find their training & experience makes them better teachers, professors, coaches, managers, consultants, and colleagues.
The EDGE is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any person based on age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.
How to Apply
How do I apply?
George Mason University students can apply on Handshake.
All other applicants can find the posting at jobs.gmu.edu.
Search terms like “EDGE” and “Challenge Course Facilitator” will bring up the posting.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Once you have submitted the on-line application and prior to your officially being hired by The EDGE, George Mason University requires all new employees to undergo a criminal background check. We also must receive favorable recommendations from references.
Location
Where is The EDGE?
The EDGE is located on George Mason University’s Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, Virginia. Our administrative offices are housed within the Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center. Our 10-acre Challenge Course and 4 aerial elements are located along the Piedmont Trail adjacent to the Freedom Center.
Training
What is the On-Boarding Process for The EDGE?
On boarding at The EDGE includes a mandatory 40+hour Training. Check the job application for upcoming training dates. Facilitators spend time observing programs and co-facilitating with our experienced staff before taking a group on their own. In addition, there is a mandatory first aid/cpr/aed certification as well as some online trainings required by the University to be completed within the first few months of employment.
What topics are addressed during New Staff Training?
Topics covered include: Introduction to The EDGE; Experiential Learning Theory; Policies and Procedures; Industry standards for Challenge Course operations; Principles and Strategies of Group Facilitation; Group Management; Risk Management; Technical Skills in Aerial Elements; Activity planning, sequencing, and facilitation; etc.
Summer Camps
What types of programs does The EDGE lead during the summer?
The EDGE hosts 3 types of camps each summer: nature/ecology; leadership; and rock climbing. All camps are day camps, generally from 9am – 4pm. The nature and leadership programs occur on our Challenge Course and surrounding property. The rock climbing program starts at The EDGE and then spends several days offsite.
Will I be working all three types of camps?
Our facilitators rotate through all camps as needed. As part of your on-boarding training as an EDGE facilitator, you are trained on fitting safety gear, tying knots, and belaying. Only those facilitators with a high level of proficiency in those skills are staffed on the climbing camps.