Careers
Work with us!
Join a passionate team dedicated to transforming lives through outdoor adventure. At Outward Bound Canada, we believe in the power of challenge, connection, and personal growth. Explore rewarding career opportunities that make a lasting impact on youth, communities, and the future of outdoor education.
Values
Compassionate Leadership
Belonging and Inclusion
Adventure and Discovery
Connection to Nature
Perks/Benefits of Working With Us
At OBC, we know our people are our greatest strength. Whether you’re leading groups in the field, supporting teams in the office, or working on a seasonal contract, you’ll have access to benefits that support your well-being, growth, and connection to our mission.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
From health and dental coverage for eligible staff to wellness resources and supports for seasonal and contract team members, we want everyone to feel cared for.
Time to Rest & Recharge
Vacation, wellness days, and sick leave are available across roles and contract types, because we know time off is essential for bringing your best self to work.
Future-Focused Support
For eligible staff, we provide retirement savings contributions, with resources and tools available to help all team members plan for the future.
Learning & Development
We invest in our people through training opportunities, leadership development, and hands-on learning experiences that help you build skills and grow with us.
A Mission-Driven Community
Be part of a values-driven team making a difference for youth across Canada. No matter your role, you’re contributing to life-changing experiences in nature.
Inspiring Work Environments
From home offices to program bases to wilderness expeditions, our work adapts to where it makes the most impact.
Current Openings
Explore our current job openings and join a mission-driven team passionate about empowering youth through outdoor adventure, leadership, and connection to nature.
Who We Are
Outward Bound Canada (OBC) is a charity that equips youth for the future through adventures in nature. These experiences develop resilience, social and emotional intelligence, and environmental leadership to prepare youth with skills to contribute to a better, more compassionate, and resilient society. Read about the impact of our work and our statement on Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.The Training Academy for Outdoor Professionals is an OBC initiative to address challenges within the outdoor sector related to high unemployment by providing training for aspiring outdoor instructors. Equally importantly, it addresses barriers to access for marginalised populations to ensure Canada’s next generation of outdoor sector employees reflect Canada’s diversity.
Context
The Outward Bound Canada Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program is an innovative new program funded through the federal Youth Employment and Skills Strategy grants. The program combines highly engaging outdoor education experiences that challenge youth in unique learning environments and fosters self-growth, empowerment and develops socio-emotional competencies and also serves as a catalyst to re-engage youth with their inner potential. The outdoor component of the program is layered with experiential centre-based training that further develops employability and future skills along with relevant entry level outdoor industry certifications.
Each region (Ontario, BC and Alberta) will serve 20 youth (aged 15-29) participants who will be selected through the outreach and intake process each year. This program is designed to specifically serve youth that are not in education, employment or training, particularly those with multiple barriers that have not experienced success in traditional educational and training models.
Outward Bound Canada’s Youth Career Catalyst program features an individualised intake process to ensure youth are matched with the right training experience, in addition to wrap-around supports that provide mentorship, coaching and career mapping. The goal is to provide the participants with the necessary skills and assets to prepare them to successfully compete for and retain quality work employment opportunities.
The Role
As a Youth Career Facilitator, you will play a pivotal role in guiding and empowering regional youth cohorts throughout the year. This impactful position involves delivering comprehensive employment skills training in both immersive backcountry expeditions and engaging classroom environments. A deep understanding of experiential outdoor education is vital, as you will adapt and deliver the curriculum in unique settings. Additionally, you will collaborate with local youth organizations to recruit participants, support them through the admissions process, and provide ongoing mentorship and coaching as they transition into meaningful employment opportunities. By fostering hands-on experiences, life skills, and leadership development, you will equip marginalized and underserved youth with the tools they need to achieve long-term career success and make a lasting positive impact on their lives.
What We Offer
- Location: Ontario. Position is remote, preferably close to one of our Ontario operating areas: Toronto, Minden
- Salary: $50,000 – $60,000
- Benefits: OBC provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes three weeks of paid time off, additional sick and wellness days, a group RRSP plan, and employer-paid extended health and dental care.
- Term: Jan 2026 – Oct 2027 (21 months). This is a full-time, contract position. Work schedules are flexible and aligned with program delivery needs. Some evenings and weekends will be required as part of supporting programs and teams in the field.
- Supervisor: Director of Grant Programs
- Anticipated Start Date: January 12, 2026
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Application Link: Application Link
Duties and Responsibilities
Youth Outreach & Recruitment
- Lead outreach and recruitment efforts in collaboration with local youth-serving organizations to recruit youth for the program.
- Build a network of partners to support recruitment efforts and map community-based supports
- Work in collaboration with regional Admissions Manager to ensure all processes are followed, medical/risk assessments are completed and individual needs are reported
Program Delivery
- Lead or support in the delivery of a 14-day wilderness expedition to regional youth cohorts
- Deliver and coordinate in person and in person classroom workshops based on program curriculum – including communication & conflict resolution, social emotional & leadership skills, problem solving, professional ethics & self awareness, personal life management, resilience building, career pathways, and other work related skills.
- Support in the delivery of specialized topics as needed (interpretation skills, first aid, mental health first aid, & technical skills training).
- Support participants with goal setting, career pathways and strength mapping.
Curriculum Development
- Liaise and collaborate with the Curriculum Manager to refine curriculum through recommendations and observations.
- Support the design and further development of program curriculum based on participant needs and program feedback.
Participant Support & Employment Coaching
- Manage a caseload of 10-20 program participants over a six month period post-program.
- Provide coaching and mentorship, track participant progress, complete individual assessments, and ensure surveys are filled out at the conclusion of the program.
- Support participants through their work placements, including job applications, online training and peer to peer support
- Provide one-on-one life skills coaching, essential employment skills development, and advocacy as needed.
- Provide referrals to other supports as needed outside of scope of program – i.e. mental health supports, specific job related training, access to local community supports, etc.
Work Placement & Employer Relations
- Support the Employment Partnerships Manager to create close relationships with employers and point of contact communications
- In collaboration with the Employment Partnerships Manager ensure employers have access to training and resources to support a youth inclusive work culture
- Support employers in understanding participant needs, and creating a supportive and beneficial working culture through relationship development, and providing resources.
Administrative Duties
- Maintain participant records, reports, and data as required.
- Collaborate with the grant team and other regional staff to ensure seamless program execution.
What You Bring
OBC recognizes relevant skills and knowledge can be gained through volunteer and life experiences as well as professional and educational backgrounds. Please outline in a brief cover letter how you have gained the following experiences, and how you would apply them to this role:
REQUIREMENTS
Leadership/Coaching
- Ability to direct and develop the performance of others to achieve desired results. This includes mentoring and guiding participants through various stages of employment readiness, providing tailored coaching to individuals with barriers to employment, and offering life skills workshops and coaching that enhance job performance and quality of life.
Service Strategy
- Demonstrates the ability to identify the needs and goals of participants and respond effectively to enhance their overall experience. This includes collaborating with employers to identify workplace needs, and ensuring ongoing support through job coaching and life skills development. Experience working and serving youth with diverse needs is essential context for this role.
Negotiation/Communication/Interpersonal Skills
- Strong communication skills are critical, including the ability to deescalate conflict situations, coach participants through challenges and tailor teachings to the audience. Furthermore, professional communication skills are required to build a network of external stakeholders.
Initiative/Enthusiasm/Innovation
- Demonstrates leadership through initiating new strategies to achieve and exceed goals. This could involve arranging job observations for job seekers in various settings or designing customized services to assist individuals in attaining meaningful employment.
Self-Management
- Effectively manages emotions and maintains composure under pressure. This is especially important when working with clients in crisis, where the ability to stay focused and provide timely, supportive services, such as advocacy, service referrals, or life skills coaching, is critical.
Teamwork/Cooperation
- Works collaboratively with other team members and external partners to achieve shared goals. This includes participating in community meetings, supporting clients through employment placements, and cooperating with peers to create opportunities for participants to gain meaningful future employment.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check.
- Ability to travel regionally for outreach, expeditions, and work placements.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Valid Wilderness First Responder (80 hour) & CPR certification.
- Strong mentorship abilities and an empathetic approach to working with young people.
- Experience delivering or leading outdoor education and/or wilderness experiences.
ASSETS
- Experience and knowledge in working with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit youth and community members.
- Knowledge of local networks, employers and youth serving organizations within local and regional context.
- Experience using IT tools: Google Suite and Camp Brain.
- Career Development Certificate.
- Previous experience with Outward Bound Canada or similar programs.
- Wilderness leadership/guiding experience & outdoor leadership certifications.
- Ability to adapt to dynamic environments and lead by example.
Outward Bound Canada is passionate about building and sustaining representation and diversity within the outdoor industry. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. BIPoC, 2SLGBTQ+, and candidates living with a disability are highly encouraged to apply, even if your experience doesn’t precisely match the job description for this role. Your experience, skills, and passion will set you apart so tell us about your achievements and journey to date, and the things you learned along the way.
Outward Bound Canada is passionate about building and sustaining representation and diversity within the outdoor industry. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. BIPoC, 2SLGBTQ+, and candidates living with a disability are highly encouraged to apply, even if your experience doesn’t precisely match the job description for this role. Your experience, skills, and passion will set you apart so tell us about your achievements and journey to date, and the things you learned along the way.
Who We Are
Outward Bound Canada (OBC) is a charity that equips youth for the future through transformative adventures in nature. These experiences develop resilience, social and emotional intelligence, and environmental leadership, preparing youth with skills to contribute to a better, more compassionate, and resilient society.
We are deeply committed to addressing barriers to access and creating opportunities for marginalized populations. We believe in fostering diversity and inclusion so that the outdoor sector reflects the rich diversity of Canada.
Context
The Outward Bound Canada Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program is an innovative program funded through the federal Youth Employment and Skills Strategy grants. The program combines highly engaging outdoor education experiences that challenge youth in unique learning environments and fosters self-growth, empowerment and develops socio-emotional competencies and also serves as a catalyst to re-engage youth with their inner potential. The outdoor component of the program is layered with experiential centre-based training that further develops employability and future skills along with relevant entry level outdoor industry certifications. Each region (Ontario, BC and Alberta) will serve 20 youth (aged 15-29) participants who will be selected through the outreach and intake process each year. This program is particularly relevant to youth that have not experienced success in traditional educational and training models or are dis-engaged with the labour market.
Outward Bound Canada’s Youth Career Catalyst program features an individualised intake process to ensure youth are matched with the right training experience, in addition to wrap-around supports that provide mentorship, coaching and career mapping. The goal is to provide them (participants) with the necessary skills and assets to prepare them to successfully compete for and retain employment.
The Role
The Supported Work Experience Coordinator with the Youth Employment Skills Strategy (YESS) grant plays a key regional role in connecting program participants to meaningful employment experiences and supporting both participants and employers throughout the work experience phase.
This hybrid position combines elements of program facilitation, case management, and employer coordination. The Coordinators will maintain close relationships with local employers, manage the logistical and administrative aspects of participant placements, and provide ongoing mentorship and support in collaboration with regional Facilitators and the Grant Work Placement Manager.
What We Offer
- Location: Hybrid within Canada, with preference given to candidates located near one of Outward Bound Canada’s operating regions (Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island, BC; Calgary, AB; or Haliburton, ON). This role requires flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends to support program and participant needs, as well as travel and in-person program delivery.
- Salary Range: $50000 – $60000
- Benefits: Health Care Spending Account Fund & Employee Assistance Plan
- Term: February – October 2026 (9 month contract), possibility of extension based on funding
- Supervisor: Grant Work Placement Manager
- Anticipated Start Date: February 2, 2026
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Application Link: Application Link
Duties and Responsibilities
Work Experience Coordination & Employer Engagement
- Build and maintain relationships with local and regional employers to create inclusive, supportive work experience opportunities for YCC participants.
- Coordinate and track required work placement documentation, including contracts, evaluation forms, and reimbursement submissions.
- Support employers with onboarding, workplace inclusion, accommodations, and communication strategies to ensure successful placements.
- Visit placement sites (virtually or in-person) to foster positive relationships and address emerging challenges.
- Collaborate with the Grant Work Placement Manager on national employer engagement, communications, and reporting.
Participant Support & Case Management
- Work closely with instructors and facilitators to support participants through their journey, ensuring successful completion of the program and readiness for work placements.
- Collaborate with regional Facilitators to identify and address barriers to retention, providing individualized supports or referrals where needed.
- Assist with the development and distribution of resources, including toolkits and mentorship materials, to enhance participant experiences.
- Maintain accurate participant records, progress notes, and outcome data in program tracking systems (eg. CampBrain, Google Suite).
Program Support & Collaboration
- Collaborate with regional Facilitators during the training phase to understand participants’ needs, strengths, and career goals.
- Support the delivery of selected training components (eg. career readiness workshops, workplace communication sessions).
- Support Facilitators in tracking participant workplace learning goals, completing evaluation surveys, and reflecting on career growth.
- Contribute to team meetings, debriefs, and shared case management discussions to ensure coordinated support across the program.
- Provide feedback on curriculum and program delivery to inform continuous improvement.
Administrative & Reporting Duties
- Maintain organized digital files for employer and participant documentation.
- Support accurate and timely submission of grant-related data, including hours verification and placement outcomes.
- Contribute to progress summaries and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Track and monitor completion of surveys and evaluations from both employers and participants.
What You Bring
OBC recognizes relevant skills and knowledge can be gained through volunteer and life experiences as well as professional and educational backgrounds. Please outline in a brief cover letter how you have gained the following experiences, and how you would apply them to this role.
REQUIREMENTS
Education
Education or training in a relevant field (such as social services, career counselling, education, or human resources) or equivalent combination of training and lived/professional experience supporting youth, employment, or outdoor programs.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with youth, employers, and community partners
- Experience mentoring or coaching young people through employment, education, or life transitions
- Demonstrated organizational and time management skills, with attention to detail in coordinating multiple tasks and maintaining accurate records
- Experience supporting employers with onboarding, communication, and inclusion practices
- Ability to problem-solve, stay adaptable, and respond to evolving needs with creativity and professionalism
- Collaborative team member who contributes to a positive and supportive working culture
- Understanding of trauma-informed, strength-based, and equity-centered approaches to youth and community work
- Proficiency with Google Workspace and virtual communication tools
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check and ability to travel regionally
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check
- Ability to travel regionally for outreach, training, and support
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Standard First Aid and CPR certification
- Familiarity with Google Suite and online communication platforms
ASSETS
- Experience or knowledge of working with equity denied groups, particularly Indigenous, racialized, disabled & those part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
- Knowledge of regional youth-serving organizations and local employer networks
- Experience with CampBrain or similar program databases
- Career Development Practitioner training or certification
- Wilderness First Aid or equivalent certification
- Previous experience with Outward Bound Canada or similar experiential learning programs
Outward Bound Canada is passionate about building and sustaining representation and diversity within the outdoor industry. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. BIPoC, 2SLGBTQIA+, and candidates living with a disability are highly encouraged to apply, even if your experience doesn’t precisely match the job description for this role. Your experience, skills, and passion will set you apart so tell us about your achievements and journey to date, and the things you learned along the way.
Who We Are
Outward Bound Canada (OBC) is a charity that equips youth for the future through adventures in nature. These experiences develop resilience, social and emotional intelligence, and environmental leadership to prepare youth with skills to contribute to a better, more compassionate, and resilient society. Read about the impact of our work and our statement on Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. The Training Academy for Outdoor Professionals is an OBC initiative to address challenges within the outdoor sector related to high unemployment by providing training for aspiring outdoor instructors. Equally importantly, it addresses barriers to access for marginalised populations to ensure Canada’s next generation of outdoor sector employees reflect Canada’s diversity.
The Role
Outward Bound Canada operates an urban outdoor program in and around the GTA as a complement to our wilderness programming. This program pairs canoeing, backpacking, and urban navigation to provide continuous journeys through the natural spaces in and around our cities. We are striving to provide life-changing outdoor educational experiences that are accessible, relevant, and contribute toward a better world. Our students include both school and community groups as well as individuals looking for a journey in their own backyard ranging from 1-15 days long. Outward Bound Canada is looking for enthusiastic, hardworking individuals who have the credentials and capacity to work at the Toronto Urban Centre providing exceptional educational programming to students, teachers, and schools on a part-time or on-call basis. This casual position offers the flexibility to create a schedule that suits your lifestyle, all while making a meaningful impact through exceptional educational programming at the Toronto Urban Centre.
Opportunity for Impact
- Responsible for the health and well-being of students while on program.
- Develop program plans and curriculum for expeditions.
- Effectively utilize group and risk management skills, maturity, and role modeling to create a safe and supportive environment for student-centered learning.
- Provide direct customer care for participants and their families/teachers/agencies.
- Complete various program-related administrative documents and tasks.
- Manage in-field risk management decisions including the mitigation of infectious disease
- Coordinate the transfer of course information to the Program Manager and Course Director.
- Organize and facilitate the program evaluation process.
- Participate in the training and mentoring of staff in program delivery procedures.
- Achieve the objectives of the Outward Bound Canada National Safety Policy.
- Complete risk management briefings and debriefings with the Program Manager and Course Director.
- Facilitate all incident reporting processes.
- Monitor, assess and evaluate students.
- This position will take place in Toronto, ON, and the surrounding GTA.
What You Bring
OBC recognizes relevant skills and knowledge can be gained through volunteer and life experiences as well as professional and educational backgrounds. Please outline in a brief cover letter how you have gained the following experiences, and how you would apply them to this role:
Requirements
- Ability to model and teach outdoor travel and living skills in Urban environments.
- Well-practiced in communicating effectively with a high level of professionalism.
- Technical and interpersonal excellence, effective in facilitating clients through the broad range of emotions experienced on our courses.
- Experience working with youth in an outdoor setting.
- Experience on extended wilderness trips.
- Ability to facilitate and lead both youth and adults of various abilities.
- Experience in adventure and experiential educational module delivery.
- Understanding and application of Outward Bound methods and philosophy.
- Skilled in behaviour management, crisis intervention, and problem-solving.
- Ability to facilitate and program ground initiatives, low ropes, rock climbing, and high ropes elements.
- Ability to develop and deliver creative cross-curricular programming.
- Focus on providing high levels of customer service.
- Ability to be a significant contributor to several small teams.
- Strong organizational skills, ability to prioritize, and multitask under deadlines.
- Strong written communication and computer skills, including Word, Excel, and database programs.
- Personal commitment to equity and inclusion in the outdoors
- Understanding of how systems of oppression take shape in workplaces and a desire to shift the balance of power and privilege to center underrepresented voices
- High level of cross-cultural competence, in recognition, that Outward Bound Canada works with students and partners from a diversity of communities and backgrounds
- Passionate about the Outward Bound Canada mission, an interest in outdoor pursuits, and a desire to help get young people outdoors for transformative experiences
Required Certifications
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR) OR Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) (an asset)
- CPR-C
- Bronze Cross or NLS
- Post-secondary education in one of the following fields: education, recreation, therapy (asset)
- Clear Vulnerable Sector Check
Assets
- Paddling Certification
- Certified Teacher (eg: OCT an asset)
- F-Class (or equivalent) Driver’s License
- Level I or Level II Ropes Course Instructor certification
Compensation
Casual/Per Diem Instructor, pay range: $20 – $30 hourly range is dependent on experience and certification + Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) and Employee Assistance Plan
At Outward Bound Canada we believe that communities that have been historically underrepresented in outdoor recreation must be centered in the work we do. Therefore, we strongly encourage applications from people who will increase representation, and invite applicants to outline how they will contribute to this in their application.
- Please provide your cover letter and resume in one pdf file. Please title the document using the following convention (First Name_Last Name_Job Title)
- Fill out the webform by clicking the “Apply Now” button above.
- Attach your cover letter and resume pdf to the web form. Note: you cannot complete the webform without this step.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please let us know if you require accommodations at any stage during the hiring process, please inform us at hrsupport@outwardbound.ca in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.
Outward Bound Canada’s greatest asset is our instructional staff. Accomplished outdoor educators with extensive technical and facilitation skills and the passion and compassion to inspire students to learn, our instructors come from all walks of life with a vast array of talents and experiences. Some have worked extensively in outdoor education, while others come from university programs or other career paths. We value group facilitation skills, life experience, passion, dedication, resiliency, and teaching ability as highly as technical proficiency.
Experience and certifications required:
- Legally able to work in Canada
- Clear vulnerable sector police check
- WFR (80hrs)
Learn more about working for OBC: Instructor Recruitment Guide (downloadable PDF)
What We Offer Instructors
Make an Impact
Outward Bound Instructors create life-changing experiences for youth. Face-to-face, human interactions in nature have never been more important! By facilitating a positive course culture, coaching students in setting and reaching goals, teaching valuable life skills, and acting as role models, instructors truly profoundly impact students. Outward Bound Canada instructors recognize this great privilege and responsibility. Perhaps most significantly, the transformational process that students go through can also be experienced by instructors. Many instructors report experiencing not only professional but immense personal growth from working for OBC. Learn more about our impact.
Competitive Pay
OBC instructor day rates range from $160 to $260 depending on location, previous experience, certifications and performance. For full-time salaried instructors, the salary range is from $45,000 to $50,000 plus benefits.
Benefits Available
All employees of Outward Bound Canada can access support services through our Employee Assistance Program, which includes counselling, financial advising, and more. Additionally, instructors receive a benefits package that includes $10 per day towards a Health Care Spending Account to support their health and well-being.
Flexible Work Options
Instructors may work full-time or on a course-by-course basis, depending on instructor availability and interests.
Advance your Career
New instructors receive mentorship from more experienced co-instructors to develop skills and progress in your journey. Working with other outdoor professionals helps build a network as you become connected to many other well-established organizations in the industry. Feedback is ongoing, so there is ample opportunity to integrate your learnings along the way.
Expand your Skill Set
Each region runs in-house seasonal training for their instructors. Ongoing training is offered throughout the year, facilitated by external providers – past topics include: mental health wilderness first aid, trauma-informed care, emotional intelligence, leadership workshops, and more.
Support for Risk Management
Field staff can call office support 24/7 for coaching on navigating challenging situations and sharing updates from the field. Multiple two-way communication devices such as InReach, radios, and satellite phones are carried in the field. Our Admissions Department also conducts comprehensive medical and behavioural screenings for all participants before coming on course, setting instructors up for success in the field.
Diversity in Work
Outward Bound Canada runs programs across the country, with various populations, in numerous skill types. Check out our Course Offerings to see some of the open enrollment programs you could facilitate – we also offer many courses year-round directly through youth-serving organizations.
Questions? Please email us at hrsupport@outwardbound.ca.
Becoming an Outward Bound Instructor
Discover what it takes to lead life-changing outdoor adventures as an Outward Bound instructor.
WHAT IS AN INSTRUCTOR
Outward Bound Canada instructors are passionate, multi-talented professionals who inspire and empower youth through transformative outdoor experiences.
As an instructor, you’ll lead backcountry expeditions, deliver impactful outdoor education, and foster leadership and emotional growth in your participants. You’ll also provide vital emotional support, navigating the challenges and rewards of the wilderness alongside your team.
This isn’t just a job for a guide, teacher, social worker, or manager: it’s a calling for those with a versatile skill set and a dedication to creating lasting, positive change. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and embrace adventure, we’d love for you to join our team!
When instructors are hired, their role is assigned based on previous experience and training.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR
Build rapport with students and develop technical and facilitation skills.
INSTRUCTOR
Facilitate group processes and teach lessons.
LEAD INSTRUCTOR
Supervise the instructor team, ultimately responsible for risk management and overall course progression.
As an instructor, you’ll be prepared to facilitate engaging discussions and teach valuable lessons on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:
Technical skills – backcountry camping, packing, expedition planning, cooking, fire building, weather systems, knots, tarp and tent set up, reading terrain, navigation, Leave No Trace, natural history and skills related to course type.
Interpersonal skills – conflict resolution, giving and receiving feedback, self-reflection, leadership styles, power and privilege, nervous system regulation, resilience, social-emotional intelligence, decision making.
Your ability to guide students through both technical and personal growth will be essential to their success in the program.
Most instructors work on a contract basis, meaning they are employed for the length of a course (typically ranging from 1-30+ days). The number of courses an instructor works is based on staffing needs and instructor preferences – some instructors work one course a year, while some work back-to-back courses all season. Explore our 2025 programs to discover the types of programs in each region.
- Instructors start work 2 days prior to student arrival to prep gear, food, lessons, and route plan.
- In the field, instructors work together to teach lessons, plan activities, lead group travel, and support student needs.
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Instructors wrap up a day after students leave, in order to clean and debrief.
Outside of working for OBC, instructors have many lifestyles and passions. Many work for other organizations in the outdoor industry as ski guides or in wilderness therapy, while others have full-time careers such as teachers or social workers. The possibilities are endless.
The pay scale was implemented in order to ensure transparency and recognize the diverse experience our instructor team brings to the field. All payscale categories add up to points that recognize your experience. Upon hire instructors fill a form to submit certification and experience, these will equate to points to find your OBC experience level.
Certifications
Each relevant certification adds additional points. Points correspond to the length and cost of the certification.
Education & Experience
University degrees, additional certifications, relevant work & OBC Online Training. Points correspond to the cost, relevance and duration.
Field Days
Each field day with OBC is worth 1 point. Other approved organizations and OBC training worth additional points.
Pay Range
OBC Experience Level ranges from 1 to 700+ points = $170 to $260 per day
All OBC regions require the following in addition to any regional requirements listed in the table on the following page:
- Legally able to work in Canada
- Clear vulnerable sector police check
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First Aid Requirements:
- Wilderness Programs: Wilderness First Responder (80hrs)
- Urban Toronto Programs: CPR-C & Standard First Aid
- Experience working with youth in an outdoor setting, with a strong ability to mentor, guide, and support their development in both technical and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of challenges youth face and experience applying inclusive strategies to support diverse groups of varying learning styles and backgrounds.
- Experience in outdoor environments with practical knowledge of backcountry travel, camping, and outdoor education.
NEED HELP FINDING CERTIFICATION COURSES?
Here are a few organizations that provide courses for certifications:
- First Aid: Wilderness Medical Associates, Raven Medical, Mental Health Wilderness First Aid (MHWFA)
- Paddle: Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC (SKGABC), Paddle Canada (PC), Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association (ORCKA)
- Hiking & Camping: Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG), Interpretive Guides Association (IGA), Outdoor Council of Canada (OCC)
*If you have considerable experience but no certifications, please apply, and we will assess
Emphasize life experiences. What unique perspectives are you bringing? How will you inspire youth from diverse backgrounds? At OBC, we can help new instructors gain technical skills. Your lived experience and the personal growth you’ve derived from it is unteachable.
- Include an accurate trip log – click this link for a great example. While you don’t need to have 100+ days in the field to be an instructor, sharing your outdoor and facilitation experience helps us understand your background and place you with effective co-instructors.
- Well written application. This job requires written documentation, which is a legal responsibility. Show us you have this skill.
- Indicate relevant interests. If you identify as part of an affinity group and want to support these communities with OBC, please let us know (ex: 2sLGBTQ+, Indigenous or BIPOC). Similarly, if you have a particular passion or area of expertise, we want to hear about it!
- Format documentation as requested. Upload your cover letter, resume, and trip log as one pdf document.
QUESTIONS?
Contact instructor_engagement@outwardbound.ca
Apply to Become an Instructor
Ready to inspire change through adventure? Apply today and start your journey with OBC!