Transformative Expedition Instructor Opportunity: Empower Struggling Teens in a Wilderness Setting

Join Our Team and Embark on a Journey of Growth, Adventure, and Community

We're seeking a passionate and experienced Expedition Instructor to join our team at the Voyageur Outward Bound School Ely Base, where you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of struggling teens. As an Expedition Instructor, you'll be part of a vibrant community that values personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor education. Our Expedition Instructor role is a unique chance to combine your love of the outdoors with your passion for teaching and mentoring, and to be part of a transformative experience that changes lives.

As an Expedition Instructor, you'll work primarily in the field, leading groups of students on wilderness expeditions and teaching them essential skills such as canoeing, portaging, backpacking, and campcraft. You'll be responsible for creating a safe and supportive learning environment, assessing student abilities and hazards, and using your judgment to mitigate risks. You'll also have the opportunity to develop your skills in expedition logistics, decision-making, and leadership, and to work with a diverse range of student populations, including those with varying learning styles and abilities.

Our ideal candidate is someone who is passionate about outdoor education, has experience working with struggling teens, and is committed to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. You should be able to demonstrate competency in expedition skills, experience teaching and leading others, and a strong ability to assess and mitigate risks. You should also be able to work effectively in a team, communicate clearly and effectively with students and colleagues, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, including training and certification in wilderness first aid and water safety
• A supportive and inclusive community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for outdoor education
• Access to a range of outdoor activities and equipment, including canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing
• A unique and transformative work environment that combines adventure, challenge, and personal growth

Requirements:

• 21 years of age as of start date of employment
• Valid Driver's License (held for 5 years) that passes Outward Bound USA screening criteria
• Wilderness First Responder and CPR certification (available to staff on-site at a reduced price starting in late April)
• Wilderness Water Safety or Active Lifeguard Certification (Water Safety class provided to staff at a reduced cost during staff training cycle)
• Demonstrated competency in expedition skills, including canoeing, portaging, backpacking, and campcraft
• Demonstrated experience teaching and leading others, with a focus on creating a positive and inclusive learning environment
• Ability to assess students' abilities and backcountry hazards, and use that information to mitigate risks
• Personal initiative, motivation, and resourcefulness, with a strong commitment to ongoing learning and professional development

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with struggling teens, with a focus on creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment
• Critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills, with the ability to demonstrate sound judgment in adverse situations
• Judgment and decision-making skills, with the ability to prioritize safety and well-being in a wilderness setting
• Social perceptiveness and active listening skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with students and colleagues
• Active learning and a strong commitment to professional development, with a focus on ongoing learning and growth
• Instructing/teaching skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner
• Service ethic and a strong commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment
• Time management and organization skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities

How to Apply:

If you're passionate about outdoor education and working with struggling teens, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and a cover letter, to Apply To This Job. Don't worry if you don't meet every single requirement - we value a great attitude and a willingness to learn above all.