Student Employment - NMU Rec Sports

Student employment within Campus Recreation is considered an extension of your educational experience at Northern Michigan University. All Campus Recreation professional staff members are committed to providing student staff with opportunities to develop professional skills. Every position is designed to complement and enhance the academic experience, helping to develop the skills required for success in today’s job market. As part of the Campus Recreation employment experience, students will have opportunities to engage in development in a variety of ways that are designed to support Campus Recreation’s learning objectives, which include:

• Communication & Customer Service Skills
• Time Management & Responsibility
• Health & Safety Awareness
• Program & Event Planning
• Administrative & Technical Skills

Benefits of Working for Rec Sports

Flexible scheduling:

• Shifts are scheduled around academic classes and varsity athletic practices.
• Student employees receive their entire semester schedule one week before the start of the academic semester.
• Employees are required to work a minimum of 8 hours per week. NMU Student employees may not work any more than 24 hours per week during the school year.
• Alternating weekend scheduling: employees are not scheduled for more than 5 assigned weekends per semester.
• Students are not required to work over University breaks (e.g. Thanksgiving, Winter, Spring).
• ESTA (Employee Sick Time Act) allows student employees to accrue one hour of  "sick" time for every 30 hours worked. 

Skill Development & Growth:

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, customer service, teamwork, time management, and communication.
• Build technical skills through the use of software systems, facility operations, and program planning.
• Opportunities for advancement into leadership roles, like student manager or program assistant.
• Develop transferable skills employers value across industries.
• Access to CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding certifications at reduced rates.
• Resume-enhancing credentials for careers in health, fitness, education, or management. 

Positive Work Culture & Campus Community:

• Become part of a supportive team with a shared commitment to service.
• Build friendships and a strong campus network.
• Fun, energetic, and student-focused environment.

Employee Recognition Programming:

• Positive write-ups
• Staff Recognition & Appreciation
• Employee of the Month
• Annual Awards 

Competitive Wages:

Wages for on-campus student employees are determined in conjunction with NMU Career Services. Minimum wage for the state of Michigan is $12.48 per hour. Pay increases are based on performance and are dependent upon length of employment in the department, changes in job responsibilities, and departmental funding. Higher employment levels/classifications are based upon required certifications and responsibilities. Pay rates are determined by the level of responsibility (employment level). 

NMU Rec Sports works with students from many different majors to complete internship requirements. Internships are considered on an as-needed basis and usually involve a focus on special projects and departmental initiatives. 

To be considered for an internship, students should:

• Meet with their advisor to determine internship requirements and fill out any internship paperwork required through your school of study.
• Submit a cover letter outlining the intent of the internship to be completed.
• Schedule a meeting with a full-time Rec Sports Staff member to discuss ideas surrounding internship projects.
• Review NMU Rec Sports student employment guidelines and expectations.

Paid internships may be available depending on departmental funds. Interns will typically be required to work 10-20 hours per week, depending on the number of credit hours that the internship falls within. 

If you are a current NMU student and interested in working for the department, please complete the Student Employee Application Form after you have reviewed employment materials, job descriptions, and expectations. All potential student employees are also asked to submit a cover letter AND a screenshot of their current class schedule with their application and return those materials to PEIF Office #126 or email them to recsport@nmu.edu.

Hiring is typically completed before the start of each academic semester. It is recommended that applications be submitted no less than 3 weeks before the beginning of the semester for consideration. Submission of application materials does not guarantee that interviews will be held. In some cases, Rec Sports will use Handshake to advertise available positions during the middle of the semester. 

NMU Rec Sports hires individuals (temporary labor) who are not current full-time NMU students to fill vacant positions. Temporary labor positions require different types of professional-level certifications and are typically hired to lead instructional programs within Aquatic and Fitness programming areas. Temporary labor positions, volunteer positions, and some youth programming positions require background checks, which are processed through NMU. 

General Employee Expectations:

• Understand and adhere to the policies in the NMU Rec Sports Employee Manual, NMU Student Handbook, and other assigned staff manuals.
• Attend all required training and meetings.
• Maintain current required certifications.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes before each shift.
• If you are coming from class and anticipate you will be late for your shift, communicate with the student building manager on duty.
• If you need to leave your shift to make it on time to class, you may leave no more than 20 minutes before your shift ends. This also needs to be communicated with the student building manager on duty (this should also be discussed with your assigned manager within the first week of the semester).
• Be neat, clean, well-groomed, and wear assigned uniforms.
• Provide quality customer service to all patrons and participants.
• Accurately clock in/out using your student ID or student IN number and fingerprint at the time clocks.
• Regularly check your NMU email and "When to Work" for important job-related information.
• Respect all NMU Rec Sports facilities and equipment.
• Handle all confidential information with professionalism and care.
• Demonstrate effective communication, and contact assigned managers as soon as possible if there are personal emergencies, incidents, or illness.
• Student employees must give at least a two-week notice when resigning to remain in good standing.
• All staff are responsible for following and enforcing department procedures and policies. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary actions and possible termination.

The Desk Assistant is a key member of the University Recreation team, serving as the first point of contact for patrons entering the facility. This position is primarily responsible for delivering excellent customer service by greeting and checking in patrons, assisting with program and facility reservations, answering general inquiries, and providing accurate information about services and policies. Desk Assistants help maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment while ensuring that all patrons adhere to departmental guidelines and facility rules. Additional responsibilities include answering phone calls, managing equipment checkouts, cash handling, and supporting the daily operations of the recreation center. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating a safe and positive experience for all users.

Lifeguard: Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring the safety of all patrons in and around the aquatic facility by actively supervising swimmers, enforcing pool rules, and responding swiftly to emergencies. Utilizing American Red Cross Lifeguarding training, lifeguards perform water rescues, administer first aid and CPR as needed, and maintain vigilance through consistent scanning techniques and rotations. Lifeguards are expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness and demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and excellent communication skills while creating a safe and welcoming aquatic environment for all users. Lifeguards are required to complete monthly "fitness swims" and attend in-service. Current American Red Cross Lifeguarding (deep water), CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and AED certifications are required. Lifeguards must be able to retrieve a 10# brick from 15 feet, and demonstrate all American Red Cross Lifeguard skills before an employment offer is made. 

Swimming Instructor: Swimming Instructors are responsible for teaching swim lessons to individuals of all ages and skill levels, following the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim curriculum. Instructors plan and deliver engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate lessons that promote water safety, swimming skills, and confidence in the water. Instructors are expected to assess participants’ progress, provide constructive feedback, and maintain accurate records of attendance and skill achievements. Additional responsibilities include setting up class materials, ensuring a safe teaching environment, and communicating effectively with participants and their guardians. Candidates must have previous experience with swimming lesson instruction, with Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification preferred. 

Group Fitness Instructor: Group Fitness Instructors are responsible for leading safe, effective, and engaging fitness classes for participants of varying ages and fitness levels. Instructors design and deliver workouts that align with current industry standards and promote physical wellness, motivation, and enjoyment. They are expected to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, provide modifications as needed, and ensure proper technique and form to reduce the risk of injury. Additional responsibilities include setting up and cleaning equipment, maintaining a positive and professional demeanor, and adhering to university recreation policies and procedures. Group Fitness Instructors should hold a current certification from a nationally recognized organization, or have completed HL 275/HL 230/HL472/HL471, and possess strong communication and leadership skills. CPR/AED certification is also required. CPR/AED certification is preferred, but can be obtained through the Rec Sports department. 

Personal Trainer: Student Personal Trainers are responsible for designing and implementing personalized fitness programs for clients based on their individual goals, fitness levels, and health histories. Trainers conduct fitness assessments, provide instruction on proper exercise techniques, and offer motivation and accountability to support client progress. They are expected to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, maintain client confidentiality, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and safety. Additional duties include tracking client progress, maintaining accurate records, and promoting healthy lifestyle habits. Student Personal Trainers must hold a current certification from a nationally recognized organization or have completed HL 275/HL 230/HL472/HL471, and possess strong interpersonal, communication, and time management skills. CPR/AED certification is also required.

Student Building Manager: Assist in managing the operations, staffing, and programming of Rec Sports activities and facilities. The SBM supports the overall operation of the PEIF, including staff supervision, task delegation, policy enforcement, customer service, problem-solving, money management, and emergency response. This position requires flexibility with early morning, late evening, and weekend hours.

Head Swimming Instructor: The Rec Sports Head Swimming Instructor is responsible for leading and supervising swimming instruction programs at the PEIF Pool. The role involves teaching swimming techniques to a variety of skill levels, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, hiring/training/scheduling, and mentoring other swimming instructors. The Head Swimming Instructor will also assist in planning and organizing swimming lessons, coordinating private and semi-private lessons, and programming community events about water safety. 

Fit Zone Manager: The Rec Sports Fit Zone manager is responsible for leading and supervising Rec Sports Fit Zone employees and programs. The role involves being on call for the Fit Zone in situations where there needs to be last-minute coverage. Hiring/training/scheduling and mentoring other student staff into the Fit Zone position. The Fit Zone manager will also work closely with the Graduate assistant and make sure fitness classes and equipment are being managed. Upkeep of the facility, making sure the equipment is being taken care of, laundry is done, and enforcing policies with student staff. 

Head Lifeguard: The Rec Sports Head Lifeguard is responsible for leading and supervising the lifeguard staff at the PEIF Pool. The role involves assisting with hiring and onboarding of new staff, creating and monitoring staff schedules, leading in-services and safety audits, monitoring pool supplies, tracking facility counts, updating manuals/policies, following best practices identified by the American Red Cross and being on call if lifeguard shifts need to be covered. 

Intramural Sports Officials are responsible for officiating a variety of intramural sports contests in a fair, safe, and professional manner. Officials enforce game rules, manage competition flow, and ensure a positive environment for all participants. Duties include setting up and taking down equipment, keeping accurate game records, resolving conflicts on the field or court, and communicating effectively with players and supervisors. Officials are expected to demonstrate impartiality, confidence, and sound judgment during gameplay while promoting good sportsmanship and inclusivity. No prior officiating experience is required; comprehensive training is provided. This position is ideal for students looking to build leadership, communication, and decision-making skills in a team-oriented setting. CPR/AED certification may be required but can be obtained through the Rec Sports Department. 

Climbing Wall and Outdoor Equipment Rental Attendants are responsible for providing a safe, supportive, and engaging experience for patrons using the climbing wall and outdoor gear rental services at the Outdoor Rec Center (ORC), located in the PEIF. Primary duties include supervising the climbing area, conducting safety checks, fitting harnesses and equipment, belaying participants, and enforcing all safety protocols and facility policies. Attendants also assist with the rental and return of outdoor equipment such as tents, backpacks, and bikes, ensuring gear is clean, functional, and properly logged. Strong customer service, risk management awareness, and attention to detail are essential. Training in climbing wall operations and belay certification will be provided; prior climbing experience is preferred but not required.

Weight Room Attendants are responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment in the university recreation center’s fitness and weight training areas. Primary duties include monitoring equipment use to ensure proper technique and adherence to safety guidelines, enforcing facility policies, and providing assistance or guidance to patrons as needed. Attendants are also responsible for cleaning and organizing equipment, reporting maintenance issues, and helping to prevent and respond to incidents or injuries. This role requires strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain alert and approachable.

Youth Programming Job Description Under Construction