The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) is seeking Backpacking Field Instructors for the 2025 Winter season (Jan-Feb).
Instructors manage the safety of trip participants while co-facilitating multi-day adventure education programming in the field, including canoeing, backcountry navigation, camping, and more!. 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.
About The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE):
The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) is a values-based outdoor adventure and education provider for teens and adults interested in personal growth and professional development. By teaching a core curriculum that emphasizes teamwork, environmental stewardship and the acquisition of technical skills, we help people improve their self-confidence and interpersonal relationships.
• Prior experience working with wilderness programs, outdoor education, residential summer camps, or related field
• Current Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification (preferred) or willingness to obtain prior to employment
• Prior canoe instruction experience
• 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
• Current ACA paddling certification
• Master’s, Bachelor’s or Associate's degree in adventure education, outdoor education, recreation, wilderness leadership or related degree