The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) is seeking Backpacking & Canoeing Field Instructors for the 2025 season (Jan-Oct), to work individual trip contracts.

Instructors manage the safety of trip participants while co-facilitating multi-day adventure education programming in the field, including backpacking, hiking, and backcountry camping. Staff manage risks and assure effective courses, while serving as an educator and role model. Must be able to teach and facilitate NCOAE’s curriculum to teens and adults; complete documentation accurately and in a timely fashion; and participate in pre-trip and post-trip meetings. Additional duties include: facilitating meaningful group experiences and setting an emotionally and physically safe, fun and engaging tone for students to follow.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Prior experience working with wilderness programs, outdoor education, residential summer camps, or related field
• Current Wilderness First Responder certification or willingness to obtain prior to employment
• Competency in risk management skills
• Prior to hiring: Satisfactory completion of NCOAE staff training

Preferred:

• 3+ years experience leading domestic and/or international outdoor education programs
• Current WFR or WEMT certification
• Master’s, Bachelor’s or Associate's degree in adventure education, outdoor education, recreation, wilderness leadership or related degree