Wilderness & Trips Jobs

Wilderness Adventure Trip Leader & Rock Trippers

Trip staff work as a team to lead our impressive array of out-of-camp trips. From day hikes to five-day wilderness backpacking and canoe trips into the Adirondacks, trippers are out of camp more than they’re in. Trip staff is responsible for assisting with planning and leading every aspect of trips so that campers have safe, unforgettable experiences. These responsibilities include driving camp vans and organizing equipment and food.

You must recognize your role as part of a team as well as being an independent decision-maker. You will help recruit campers for your trips, meet with the Head of Trips to get your plans and paperwork approved, then lead campers, teaching Leave No Trace principles, outdoor cooking, camping, equipment maintenance and care, and emergency procedures.

Trips include hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, and canoeing. A key responsibility is ensuring camper readiness, and conducting a program that is fun for campers of all ages with wide-ranging experience. In addition, staff assists in other transportation as needed, including airport pickup and drop-off for campers.

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 21.
• Must have a passion for the wilderness and working with children.
• Skilled in planning and leading wilderness trips.
• Must have a solid working knowledge of LNT principles and procedures.
• Current Wilderness First Responder certification (will accept a Wilderness First Aid certification at a minimum).
• Current Lifeguard with CPR and AED certification.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.

Preferred Experience

• Training and experience in teaching wilderness awareness and skills to children.
• Personal experience with NOLS, Outward Bound, or similar programs.
• Experience driving passenger vans in varied weather conditions.
• Successful completion of driver’s training videos and online examination as well as on-site driver’s training.

Physical Aspects of the Position

• Ability to observe camper behavior and ensure appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures.
• Ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Willingness to live in a camp and wilderness setting and work irregular hours delivering the program.
• Capable of carrying out tasks with daily exposure to the sun, heat, and other environmental conditions.
• Physical ability to prepare for, participate in and lead campers in wilderness activities, including lifting and carrying wilderness gear.

Additional Rock Tripper Qualification

• Current certification in rock climbing instruction (NOLS, Outward Bound, or similar programs) or documented training and experience, including wall climbing, rock face climbing, and rappelling.

Additional Whitewater Qualifications

• Whitewater kayaking experience and certifications.