Outward Bound Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of experiential education, the role of an Outward Bound Instructor stands crucial and compelling.

As we navigate through the voyage of life, the need for seasoned guides who can empower, inspire, and safeguard our journey towards personal growth and self-discovery becomes indispensable.

But let’s unravel the intricacies: What’s truly expected from an Outward Bound Instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the world of outdoor experiential education,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Outward Bound Instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Outward Bound Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Outward Bound Instructors are responsible for leading and instructing groups in outdoor adventure programs, promoting personal growth, and building teamwork and leadership skills.

They are expected to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants.

The duties and responsibilities of an Outward Bound Instructor include:

• Plan and lead outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, camping, and orienteering
• Teach survival skills, environmental awareness, and outdoor living skills to participants
• Ensure the safety of all participants by adhering to safety protocols and procedures
• Handle emergency situations, administer first aid, and coordinate rescue efforts if necessary
• Facilitate group discussions and debriefings to promote personal growth and group development
• Assess the abilities of participants and tailor activities to suit different fitness levels and abilities
• Conduct equipment checks and maintain gear and equipment
• Prepare meals and ensure proper food handling and sanitation practices are followed during outdoor expeditions
• Complete necessary paperwork and documentation, including incident reports, trip reports, and participant evaluations

 

Outward Bound Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Outward Bound Instructor to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have experience in outdoor education and a passion for developing leadership skills in others.

The Outward Bound Instructor will guide participants through a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, rock climbing, and canoeing, among others.

They will also provide leadership and survival skill education, promoting self-discovery, resilience, and teamwork.

 

Responsibilities

• Lead and instruct groups in various outdoor adventure activities.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants at all times.
• Teach outdoor survival skills and environmental stewardship.
• Facilitate team-building exercises and provide leadership training.
• Assess risks and make safety decisions in challenging outdoor environments.
• Provide first aid and emergency response as needed.
• Plan and prepare meals and manage food supplies.
• Maintain equipment and report any damages or necessary repairs.
• Assist in the planning and execution of custom programs.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as an outdoor instructor or guide.
• Proficient in a variety of outdoor activities and survival skills.
• First Aid and CPR certified.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• A degree in Outdoor Education or a related field is a plus.
• Ability to work in challenging outdoor environments and unpredictable weather conditions.
• Physically fit and able to participate in strenuous activities.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Outdoor gear discounts

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Outward Bound Instructor
• Work Environment: Outdoor settings in various locations. Must be comfortable working in varying weather conditions and remote wilderness areas.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Outward Bound Program Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $28,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• 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 Outward Bound Instructor Do?

Outward Bound Instructors typically work for outdoor education organizations or adventure programs.

They can also be employed by schools or camps that emphasize outdoor activities and experiential learning.

They primarily instruct and lead groups in adventure-based activities such as rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, and camping.

They also teach various survival skills like navigation, first aid, and outdoor cooking.

Their role involves creating a safe and supportive environment for participants, ensuring they adhere to safety guidelines, and responding effectively to emergencies.

Outward Bound Instructors also provide educational experiences, facilitating personal growth and team-building exercises.

They aim to foster an appreciation for nature and instill values such as resilience, leadership, and cooperation among participants.

Moreover, they are responsible for gear maintenance, route planning, and risk assessment.

They often work in diverse and challenging outdoor environments and must be able to adapt to changing weather conditions and potential hazards.

Finally, they often play a role in the personal development of their students, helping them overcome personal fears, develop confidence, and learn about their personal strengths and weaknesses through challenging outdoor activities.

 

Outward Bound Instructor Qualifications and Skills

An Outward Bound Instructor should have the skills and qualifications that meet the requirements of the role, including:

• Excellent physical fitness to participate in outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, camping, and others
• Knowledge and experience in safety procedures for outdoor adventure activities to ensure the safety of participants
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills to successfully guide and inspire groups throughout activities
• First aid and CPR certification to provide immediate medical care when necessary
• Communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with people of varying ages, backgrounds and abilities
• Problem-solving skills to deal with unexpected challenges and emergencies in an outdoor setting
• Instructional skills to teach participants about outdoor survival techniques, environmental awareness, and responsible outdoor behavior
• Experience in planning, organizing, and leading outdoor activities
• Ability to adapt and be flexible in a variety of situations, often under pressure
• Passion for outdoors and an appreciation for the natural environment

 

Outward Bound Instructor Experience Requirements

Outward Bound Instructors typically require at least 1 to 2 years of experience in outdoor education or a related field.

This experience can often be gained through internships, seasonal work, or volunteering with outdoor programs or camps.

Candidates should have a wide array of outdoor skills, such as rock climbing, backpacking, canoeing, or sea kayaking, and the ability to teach these skills to others.

They should be comfortable working in remote wilderness settings for extended periods.

For higher-level instructor positions, candidates might need 3 to 5 years of experience in outdoor education, wilderness therapy, or adventure education.

They should have a track record of leadership, have worked with diverse groups of students, and be proficient in risk management.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience might be considered for Program Director or similar leadership roles, where they would be responsible for designing programs, managing staff, and ensuring the safety of all participants.

In addition to hands-on experience, many employers prefer or require certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Leave No Trace (LNT), or relevant instructor certifications from professional organizations like the American Canoe Association or the Professional Climbing Instructors Association.

 

Outward Bound Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Outward Bound Instructors generally require a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, a bachelor’s degree in outdoor education, recreation management, or a similar field is preferred.

In terms of professional training, they need experience in outdoor activities such as climbing, hiking, kayaking, ropes courses, and backpacking.

This can be gained through personal experience or through completing training courses.

Most organizations require Outward Bound Instructors to have a valid Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification.

Some may also require a CPR certification.

Additionally, many employers value certifications from professional outdoor organizations, such as the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) or the Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA).

Instructors are also typically required to complete on-the-job training.

This often includes lessons in risk management, decision-making in the wilderness, and specific training for the activities they will be leading.

Soft skills are also crucial for this role.

Outward Bound Instructors must be excellent communicators, have leadership abilities, and be able to effectively work with diverse groups of people.

Continuing education and professional development are important in this role, as safety standards, equipment, and techniques in the outdoor industry are constantly evolving.

 

Outward Bound Instructor Salary Expectations

An Outward Bound Instructor earns an average salary of $26,295 (USD) per year.

The actual income can differ based on factors such as experience, specific skills, location, and the organization for which they work.

 

Outward Bound Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Outward Bound Instructor need?

Outward Bound Instructors need to have strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively guide and instruct participants.

They should have a thorough understanding of outdoor skills, including camping, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, and water sports.

Instructors must also have first aid and CPR certification and may require specific certifications like belaying or wilderness first responder training.

Above all, they should have a strong passion for outdoor education and adventure.

 

Do Outward Bound Instructors need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, having a bachelor’s degree in outdoor education, recreation, or a related field can certainly be an advantage.

Most importantly, Outward Bound Instructors need to have extensive experience in outdoor activities and a deep understanding of wilderness environments.

They also need to have completed training in risk management, group dynamics, and outdoor leadership.

 

What should you look for in an Outward Bound Instructor’s resume?

Relevant experience is key in an Outward Bound Instructor’s resume.

Look for previous experience in outdoor leadership roles, such as camp counselor, wilderness guide, or similar positions.

Certifications in outdoor skills, first aid, and CPR are also essential.

Additional qualifications, such as a degree in outdoor education or a related field, can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Outward Bound Instructor?

A good Outward Bound Instructor is passionate about the outdoors and is comfortable leading groups in wilderness settings.

They should be empathetic and patient, able to foster a positive learning environment for all participants.

Excellent problem-solving skills are essential, as they will often need to make critical decisions under pressure.

They should also be physically fit, as the job often requires strenuous physical activity.

 

Is it difficult to hire Outward Bound Instructors?

Hiring Outward Bound Instructors can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

Instructors need to have extensive outdoor experience, leadership abilities, and relevant certifications.

Because of these requirements, the pool of qualified candidates can be somewhat limited.

However, offering competitive compensation and benefits, as well as a positive and fulfilling work environment, can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve reached our destination.

We’ve navigated the exhilarating and challenging terrain of what it truly means to be an Outward Bound Instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about guiding outdoor adventures.

It’s about shaping individuals, cultivating resilience and leadership skills, one experience at a time.

With our comprehensive Outward Bound Instructor job description template and real-life scenarios, you’re ready to embark on this exciting career journey.

But don’t pitch your tent just yet!

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your compass to crafting precision-targeted job listings or honing your resume to peak perfection.

Remember:

Every experience is a step towards personal growth.

Let’s shape these journeys. Together.

How to Become an Outward Bound Instructor (Complete Guide)

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