Summary

Instructors oversee the safety, quality and educational effectiveness of courses. Assistant Instructors carry out all instructor responsibilities while under the training of Lead Instructors, Course Directors and other program staff.

The Twin Cities Base delivers both multi-day (Expedition) and day-long (Insight) experiential education programming. These programs work with a diverse spectrum of students across an array of high impact activities including: urban adventure, canoeing, rock climbing, challenge course, environmental service and orienteering. Programs focuses on self-discovery, problem-solving, team development, collaboration, and communication in small group settings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborates with instructor team and Course Director to design and implement experiential outdoor education programs that promote social and emotional learning and support Outward Bound’s mission and educational goals

• Collaborates within instructor team to plan expedition logistics including: route planning, pre/post course paperwork, expedition food, and equipment organization/packing
• Maintains physical and emotional safety of students and co-instructor during all course activities; manages student behaviors, group dynamic, and field emergencies
• Ensures adherence to local operating procedures, safety policies and emergency procedures as outlined in the field staff manual
• Expected to provide clear, effective and timely communication with students, co-instructor, Course Director and other staff

Additional Responsibilities of LEAD INSTRUCTOR:

• Is responsible for all aspects of course and student learning: including teaching all aspects of course, creating curriculum, group safety, emergency management, program/expedition logistics, and pre/post course paperwork
• Acts as primary trainer/mentor for Assistant Instructor providing timely feedback, coaching, and guidance as necessary

Manages group alone in case of absence of Assistant Instructor

Experience and Qualifications

• Understanding of experiential and outdoor education principles and ability to provide inclusive instruction for student groups of many ethnicities, races, socio-economics, genders, learning abilities, and ages
• Professional expedition, education, and/or youth development experience (Outward Bound, NOLS, or similar organization) including a minimum of 40 professional field days; some of which should include extended wilderness expeditions
• Required Certifications: Wilderness First Responder and CPR, Water Safety or Lifeguard Certification, Valid Driver’s License
• Expedition Skills: canoeing, backpacking, campcraft, navigation, expedition logistics, and leave no trace ethics
• Canoe Skills: can paddle a canoe in difficult conditions/moving water, perfom swimmer and canoe rescues and teach basic paddle strokes; whitewater experience helpful
• Teambuilding, top-rope rock climbing, or high/low ropes course experience
• Risk Management Skils: experience assessing student abilities and backcountry hazards to ensure all activities and travel options are safe and appropriate
• Maintains sound judgment in adverse situations and field emergencies

Job Requirements

• Sufficiently fit to participate in vigorous course activities, including but not limited to: running, swimming, backpacking, climbing, canoeing. Including ability to lift and move 40-60 pounds
• Flexibility to work 14+ days consecutively, including nights & weekends
• Participates in all required training
• Completes background & motor vehicle record check
• Minimum age: 21 years old

Compensation and Benefits

• Per diem pay according to VOBS’ Field Instructor Pay Scale for all preparation, execution, and wrap-up of coursework
• Field expedition training plus additional field skills development throughout the year
• Accident insurance & retirement plan available through VOBS
• Eligible for Pro-deal with various outdoor equipment companies

Dates

• Interviews begin in December; position will remain open until filled
• Summer staff training begins in mid-May

Application Details.

Please include a current resume, references, and technical skills log