TENURE-TRACK POSITION IN OUTDOOR RECREATION & LEADERSHIP

Location: Sault Sainte Marie, MI
Department: School of Natural Resources
Category: Faculty
Employment Type: Faculty – Full Time
Work Location: Onsite
Application Period Opens: April 15, 2026

Job Summary

Lake Superior State University invites applicants for a tenure-track faculty position in Outdoor Recreation and Leadership in the School of Natural Resources. As one of LSSU’s core values is excellence in teaching and learning, the successful candidate will contribute to the institution’s educational mission by prioritizing student-centered learning, mentoring undergraduate and/or graduate students, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive academic environment for all. We seek applicants who are passionate about meeting students where they are and guiding them toward success.

Lake Superior State University is a student-focused institution known for small class sizes, engaged faculty, and real-world learning. Our academic programs emphasize experiential education, preparing students to lead and innovate in their fields. Whether through undergraduate research, internships, or professional collaboration, LSSU fosters an environment where academic excellence and mentorship go hand in hand. Faculty and staff are empowered to shape the student experience and build meaningful connections that last beyond graduation. Nestled in the scenic Upper Peninsula of Michigan near the Canadian border, LSSU offers a unique blend of natural beauty, community engagement, and academic experiences—making it a special place to live, work, and learn.

Responsibilities

• Teach 12 contract hours per semester.
• Maintain at least five office hours weekly for student support.
• Engage in scholarly and professional activities, including applied undergraduate research or capstone experiences.
• Engage in service to the University, profession, and community.
• Participate in course and program assessment activities.

LSSU Mission Statement

We equip our graduates with the knowledge, practical skills, and inner strength to craft a life of meaningful employment, personal fulfillment, and generosity of self within an inclusive atmosphere, all while enhancing the quality of life of the Great Lakes region and the world.

LSSU Vision Statement

We believe in an innovation-driven, transformative education for all. We identify potential, enable success, drive social mobility, and develop students into professionally prepared graduates who excel locally, nationally and globally.

Minimum Qualifications

• M.S. in Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Recreation, Environmental Education or closely related discipline plus at least two years of teaching experience at the university level]
• Evidence of an ability to teach undergraduate students through engaging instruction
• Demonstrated ability to conduct and publish research
• An interest in including undergraduates in research and providing professional opportunities for students outside of class
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, student-centered academic environment

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Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Recreation, Environmental Education or closely related discipline
• Experience mentoring undergraduate research
• Demonstrated record of research including experience acquiring external funds to support teaching and research initiatives
• Demonstrated experience building relationships with community partners including Indigenous communities
• Involvement with the Association for Experiential Education, Association for Outdoor Recreation Education, Wilderness Education Association, National Outdoor Leadership, National Recreation and Park Association, or similar professional organizations

Physical Demands

Must be able to meet the typical demands of university-level teaching, including standing for extended periods and managing a 12-credit teaching load, with occasional evening classes or overloads as assigned. Must be able to accompany students on overnight field labs, actively lead and participate in recreational activities in and outdoors, be able to lift up to 40 pounds, and possess a valid driver’s license.

Appointment Type, Duration

Tenure-Track, 9 months

Anticipated Start Date

August, 2026

Salary

$60,000-$64,000 plus full benefits
Academic Year (9-month basis)

The Outdoor Recreation program provides opportunities for students to concentrate in park and land management, outdoor recreation and ecotourism, or environmental education. We are especially interested in candidates who can leverage our existing strengths and grow new opportunities for students in Outdoor Recreation and Leadership. Responsibilities include teaching core courses in the Outdoor Recreation and Leadership program including courses such as Outdoor Recreation, Facilitation & Interpretation, Land Management for Recreation, Expedition Management, and National Parks, Monuments, and Culture. There also may be opportunities to teach outdoor recreation classes including backpacking, canoeing, rock climbing, and others. These are a combination of upper and lower level courses and enrollment for each is generally < 25 students.

Faculty in the SNR also contribute to LSSU’s undergraduate programs through academic and career advising, mentoring students engaged in undergraduate research, advising student professional organizations, and working collaboratively with external partners to provide unique student experiences. Success of students within the SNR stems from extensive interaction with faculty during hands-on labs, student research, and active student organizations. All students within the school are required to complete a senior thesis – focused on a research or experiential learning project – and they are encouraged to present their results at regional and national conferences. Faculty mentor students engaged in the senior thesis process, and also provide academic advising to students, mentor students engaged in internships or apprenticeships, contribute to university service, and work closely in advising student professional organizations, including an active Parks and Recreation Club.

SNR is part of the College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education (CoGLEE), which also includes the School of Education and the Center for Freshwater Research and Education. CoGLEE is a strategic initiative to create connections for students, faculty, and the community around “place”, and as a result, there are numerous exciting opportunities for faculty in the Outdoor Rec and Leadership program to engage with formal and non-formal education opportunities within CoGLEE.

Additionally, LSSU’s located in the beautiful Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The campus sits on the St. Marys River, the sole outflow of Lake Superior, and provides numerous educational and professional opportunities to recreate in the surrounding forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, and lakes. LSSU is also surrounded by three Great Lakes and many state, provincial, and national forests and parks, including Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Mackinac Island State Park, and Tahquamenon Falls State Park; all of which provide tremendous recreational opportunities and a high quality of life.

Learn more about our school: https://www.lssu.edu/school-of-natural-resources/

Employment is contingent upon eligibility to work in the U.S. by the effective date of the appointment and successful completion of a background check.

Special Instructions to Applicants: Submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, a 1-page statement of teaching interests, a 1-page statement of research interests, and contact information for three references.

For additional information, contact Dr. Ashley Moerke, Dean of the College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education

Review of applications will begin as soon as possible and continue until the position is filled.