Outdoor Survival Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of outdoor adventures, the demand for skilled outdoor survival instructors has never been greater.

As more and more people seek to reconnect with nature, the need for knowledgeable individuals who can guide, educate, and ensure safety during outdoor activities is on the rise.

But what exactly is expected from an outdoor survival instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of outdoor survival instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable outdoor survival instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Outdoor Survival Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Outdoor Survival Instructors are responsible for teaching a variety of survival skills and techniques to individuals or groups, often in outdoor settings.

They must have extensive knowledge of outdoor survival, first aid, and local flora and fauna.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Creating and implementing survival training programs
• Teaching skills such as fire building, shelter construction, water sourcing and purification, and navigation
• Providing instruction on survival gear use and maintenance
• Identifying and explaining local flora and fauna, with an emphasis on edible and medicinal plants
• Demonstrating and teaching first aid and emergency response skills
• Maintaining safety and complying with all outdoor regulations and guidelines
• Assessing participants’ capabilities and modifying instruction accordingly
• Organizing and leading survival expeditions, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of participants

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and experienced Outdoor Survival Instructor to lead and teach a variety of survival skills and techniques.

The Outdoor Survival Instructor’s responsibilities will include demonstrating survival techniques, leading outdoor trips, ensuring the safety of all participants, and educating participants about the environment.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of survival, bushcraft, and outdoor skills, as well as experience in teaching or instructing these skills.

A commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and a passion for the outdoors is essential for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize and lead outdoor survival programs and trips
• Teach survival skills such as fire-building, shelter construction, navigation, and first-aid
• Ensure safety and wellbeing of all participants
• Educate participants about local flora and fauna, outdoor ethics, and environmental conservation
• Maintain and repair outdoor gear and equipment as needed
• Assess risks and respond to emergencies effectively
• Assist in the development and updating of survival curriculum and program materials
• Promote a positive and inclusive learning environment

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Outdoor Survival Instructor or similar role
• Expert knowledge in survival skills, bushcraft, and outdoor activities
• Certified in wilderness first aid and CPR
• Strong teaching and leadership skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physically fit and able to lead strenuous outdoor activities
• High school diploma or equivalent; further training or certification in outdoor education or related field will be a plus

 

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Outdoor gear discounts
• Professional development opportunities in outdoor education and survival skills

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Outdoor Survival Instructor
• Work Environment: Outdoor settings including forests, mountains, and wilderness areas. This position involves physical work and may require carrying heavy equipment, traversing rough terrain, and exposure to all weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Outdoor Programs Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Outdoor Survival Instructor Do?

An Outdoor Survival Instructor specializes in teaching practical skills for surviving in various outdoor environments.

These professionals are usually associated with adventure clubs, outdoor education organizations, military training facilities, or survival schools.

Outdoor Survival Instructors impart knowledge on a variety of survival techniques such as building shelters, finding and preparing food, sourcing clean water, and creating fire without modern tools.

They also teach navigation skills, first-aid techniques, and how to deal with potential dangers in the wild such as predatory animals or hazardous weather conditions.

Instructors also emphasize the importance of mental resilience and the right attitude when faced with survival situations.

They often lead groups on wilderness excursions, where they demonstrate these skills in real-time conditions and provide guidance and feedback as participants attempt these tasks.

Safety is a primary concern, so survival instructors are trained to manage risks and respond effectively to emergencies.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure that their students can confidently and safely manage themselves in outdoor survival situations.

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Qualifications and Skills

An outdoor survival instructor should have a variety of skills and qualifications to effectively teach and guide students in surviving various outdoor scenarios, including:

• Excellent knowledge of survival techniques, outdoor first aid, and emergency procedures to ensure safety during outdoor expeditions.
• Physical fitness and endurance to handle demanding outdoor conditions and activities such as hiking, climbing, and swimming.
• Effective communication and teaching skills to explain survival concepts clearly and be able to adapt to different learning styles.
• Interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with students, providing encouragement and motivation during challenging activities.
• Problem-solving abilities to quickly assess and respond to unexpected situations or emergencies.
• Experience with various outdoor equipment and tools and the ability to teach others how to use them properly and safely.
• Navigation skills, including understanding of topographical maps and compass usage.
• Patience and adaptability to deal with a range of individuals, weather conditions, and potential obstacles.
• Leadership skills to guide groups through difficult terrains and survival situations.
• Appreciation for nature and a commitment to conserving the environment.

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Experience Requirements

Outdoor Survival Instructors typically should have several years of experience in outdoor education or relevant fields such as military service, wilderness therapy, or outdoor guiding.

This experience should include extensive knowledge of outdoor survival techniques, navigation, first aid, and emergency procedures.

Applicants may gain this experience through a combination of education and field practice.

Many Outdoor Survival Instructors have degrees in fields such as Outdoor Education, Wilderness Leadership, or Environmental Science.

Practical experience can often be gained through volunteering or working with outdoor education programs, wilderness therapy programs, or adventure travel companies.

In addition to field experience, instructors often receive certifications in wilderness first aid, CPR, and sometimes even advanced wilderness life support.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may be considered for leadership or managerial roles within outdoor education programs.

These individuals should have demonstrated leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to manage safety and risk in wilderness settings.

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Outdoor Survival Instructors often have a relevant bachelor’s degree in fields such as Outdoor Education, Recreation Management, or a related discipline.

They need to have a comprehensive understanding of outdoor survival techniques including, but not limited to, shelter building, fire starting, food procurement, navigation, and first aid.

Many employers prefer candidates who have completed certified courses from recognized institutions such as the Wilderness Education Association, National Outdoor Leadership School, or Outward Bound.

Some roles may even require an Outdoor Survival Instructor to have a master’s degree in wilderness therapy or outdoor adventure leadership.

A certification in first aid, CPR, and wilderness first responder is typically required.

Some instructors may also pursue advanced certifications such as wilderness EMT.

In addition to formal education and certifications, extensive personal experience in wilderness settings, knowledge of local flora and fauna, and strong physical fitness are also typically required.

Having additional certifications and/or a master’s degree demonstrates a candidate’s commitment to their profession and their continuous learning in this field.

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Salary Expectations

An Outdoor Survival Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $36,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on the instructor’s level of experience, certifications, location, and the organization they work for.

 

Outdoor Survival Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Outdoor Survival Instructor need?

An Outdoor Survival Instructor needs a broad skill set.

They must be highly knowledgeable about outdoor survival techniques such as constructing shelters, foraging for food, starting fires, and navigation.

They should also have first-aid skills, as well as knowledge of local flora and fauna.

Strong communication and leadership abilities are key as they will need to effectively impart their knowledge to their students.

Additionally, physical fitness, endurance, and resilience are required due to the outdoor and often challenging nature of the job.

 

Do Outdoor Survival Instructors need a degree?

While a degree isn’t a strict requirement, having a certification from a recognized outdoor survival school can be advantageous.

It’s also beneficial to have a background in outdoor activities, outdoor education, or a related field.

Experience in teaching or instructing can also be helpful.

However, the most critical factors for an Outdoor Survival Instructor are practical skills and experience in outdoor survival.

 

What should you look for in an Outdoor Survival Instructor resume?

Look for a combination of formal training and practical experience in survival scenarios.

Certifications in survival instruction, wilderness first aid, or similar qualifications can be a plus.

Experience in teaching or facilitating groups, especially in an outdoor context, is also valuable.

Finally, you want to see evidence of personal physical fitness and outdoor prowess, as well as a passion for outdoor survival and education.

 

What qualities make a good Outdoor Survival Instructor?

A good Outdoor Survival Instructor is patient, empathetic, and has excellent communication and leadership skills.

They should be passionate about the outdoors and be able to instill this enthusiasm in their students.

They must be adaptable, capable of responding effectively to unexpected situations or emergencies.

Furthermore, they should be physically fit, resilient, and have a comprehensive knowledge of outdoor survival techniques and safety procedures.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Outdoor Survival Instructor?

Finding the right Outdoor Survival Instructor can be a challenge due to the unique combination of skills required.

Candidates need to have a mix of practical survival skills, teaching ability, and physical fitness.

However, there are specialized training programs and schools that can be good resources for finding qualified instructors.

A thorough vetting process, including practical demonstrations of survival skills and teaching methods, can help ensure that you hire the right person for the job.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the complexities of what it truly means to be an outdoor survival instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about knowing how to start a fire.

It’s about forging resilience, teaching survival skills, and cultivating a respect for the great outdoors, one lesson at a time.

With our comprehensive outdoor survival instructor job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why limit your journey here?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next stepping stone to carefully crafted job postings or perfecting your resume to the tee.

Remember:

Every survival skill taught is a life potentially saved.

Let’s instill respect for nature and teach survival skills. Together.

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