Careers

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 national charity that equips youth with the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive through powerful, life-changing experiences in nature. Our programs combine outdoor adventure with intentional learning to build leadership, social and emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of responsibility to community and the environment. 

We are committed to breaking down barriers to access and creating meaningful opportunities for youth who have been historically underrepresented in outdoor and leadership spaces. Equity, inclusion, and belonging are central to our work, and we actively strive to ensure the outdoor sector reflects the full diversity of Canada. 

The Role

The Sales & Partnerships Coordinator (Urban Wild – Toronto) supports the full participant and partner journey – managing registration, intake, and communication while contributing to outreach and relationship development with schools, community organizations, and families. This role ensures a seamless, equitable, and well-coordinated experience from first connection through program delivery.

Reporting to the Operations Manager (Urban Wild) and working closely with the sales and intake, the Coordinator sits at the intersection of outreach, sales coordination, and program operations. They play a key role in expanding access to Urban Wild programs across the Greater Toronto Area while maintaining strong partnerships and high operational standards.

This is a hybrid role, based between home and OBC’s Toronto-area base, with regular in-person engagement with partners and occasional presence on program days to build relationships and deepen understanding of participant experience.

What We Offer

• Location: Hybrid role based in Toronto, with a mix of work from OBC’s Toronto base, home, and in-community engagement across the GTA
• Salary: $50000 – $59000
• Benefits: OBC provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes three weeks of paid time off (plus two weeks of year-end closure), additional sick and wellness days, a group RRSP plan, employer-paid extended health and dental care, and Employee Assistance Plan
• Term: This is a full-time, permanent position (37.5 hours per week). Work schedules are flexible and aligned with program delivery needs. Evening and weekend work will be required as part of supporting programs and teams in the field.
• Supervisor: Principal & Urban Wild Program Manager
• Anticipated Start Date: March 9, 2026
• Application Deadline: February 22, 2026

Key Responsibilities

Outreach & Partnership Support

• Support sale efforts through outreach to schools, school boards, and community organizations across the Greater Toronto Area.
• Assist with follow-up, relationship cultivation, and coordination to support participation in Urban Wild and other Toronto-based programs.
• Represent OBC at community events, info sessions, and partner meetings as needed.
• Communicate the value of OBC programs to partners who may be new to outdoor or experiential education.

Participant Intake, Registration & Coordination

• Coordinate participant registration, intake forms, waivers, and pre-course communications.
• Act as a liaison with teachers, community leaders, and families to ensure clarity, readiness, and a positive participant experience.
• Coordinate contracts, booking confirmations, and onboarding materials for partner organizations.
• Support invoicing and payment coordination in collaboration with internal teams.

Pipeline, Systems & Administration

• Maintain accurate records of outreach, partnerships, bookings, and participant data using OBC’s CRM and internal systems.
• Support pipeline tracking, reporting, and follow-up in collaboration with the Sales & Partnerships Manager.
• Assist with evaluation, partner feedback collection, and post-program follow-up.

Equity-Centred Engagement

• Support relationship-building with organizations serving Indigenous, Black, newcomer, low-income, and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
• Gather partner and participant feedback to help improve accessibility, inclusion, and program relevance.
• Contribute to culturally responsive outreach approaches and materials.

Internal Collaboration & Program Engagement

• Work closely with the Urban Wild team, program staff, marketing, and operations to support smooth program delivery.
• Approximately 10–15% of time is student facing, occasionally joining program days to build relationships with partners and better understand participant experience.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and cross-functional planning sessions.

Qualifications & Experience

• 2+ years of experience in outreach, sales coordination, community engagement, partnerships, or youth-serving programs
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills
• Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of systemic barriers to access
• Clear and confident communication skills, including public speaking and presentations
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Comfort using CRM systems or databases to track relationships and activities

Additional Assets

• Experience in outdoor education, education, youth employment, or nonprofit sectors
• Lived experience and/or strong community ties within the GTA
• Event coordination or project management experience
• French language proficiency
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel occasionally if required.

Required Certifications

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 national charity that equips youth with the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive through powerful, life-changing experiences in nature. Our programs combine outdoor adventure with intentional learning to build leadership, social and emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of responsibility to community and the environment. 

We are committed to breaking down barriers to access and creating meaningful opportunities for youth who have been historically underrepresented in outdoor and leadership spaces. Equity, inclusion, and belonging are central to our work, and we actively strive to ensure the outdoor sector reflects the full diversity of Canada. 

Program Context

 The Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program combines outdoor education with career and skills development for youth facing barriers to employment. Participants gain employability skills, industry certifications, and access to meaningful and supported work experiences, preparing them for sustainable employment. 

This position supports program delivery across Ontario, Vancouver Island, and Alberta, providing leadership and support to the YCC delivery team, overseeing and managing program implementation and logistics, supporting and onboarding of contract staff and ensuring the highest quality experience for youth participants. 

The Role

 Reporting to the Director of Wilderness Programs, the Grant Program Manager is a term role responsible for overseeing multiple grant-funded programs, with a current focus on the Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program, which operates in Ontario, BC (Vancouver Island), and the Rockies. Preference will be given to candidates based in the Rockies (Calgary–Canmore) or near other OBC operational bases. 

This role is closely tied to program delivery and requires hands-on oversight of regional staff, facilitators, and program operations (for field and centre-based programming) . You will ensure that programs are delivered safely, effectively, and in alignment with OBC’s mission and implemented in accordance to grant requirements. You will manage scheduling, bookings, staffing, and logistics, and serve as a key contact for participants, families, delivery staff, regional operations and partner organizations. 

The Grant Program Manager will also contribute to program development, evaluation, and continuous improvement, ensuring the highest quality outcomes for students and alignment with funding objectives across multiple programs. 

What We Offer

• Location: This is a hybrid role with flexibility to work from home (outside of program delivery times), complemented by travel to OBC operational bases across Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia. Preference will be given to candidates based in the Rockies (Cochrane/Calgary–Canmore corridor) or near other OBC operational bases to support regional program delivery and facilitate on-site leadership. 
• Salary: $60000 – $70000 
• Benefits: Comprehensive package including three weeks paid time off, additional sick/wellness days, group RRSP, employer-paid extended health and dental, and Employee Assistance Plan 
• Term: February 2026 – October 2027. This is a full-time, term position (37.5 hours per week). Work schedules are flexible and aligned with program delivery needs. Evening and weekend work will be required as part of supporting programs and teams in the field. 
• Supervisor: Director of Wilderness 
• Anticipated Start Date: February 2026
• Application Deadline: February 10, 2026 
• Application Link: CLICK HERE 

Key Responsibilities

The Grant Program Manager ensures the safe, effective, and high-quality delivery of OBC’s grant-funded programs across regions. You will: 

•  Oversee delivery of the Youth Career Catalyst program in Ontario, BC, and the Rockies, including student experiences, facilitator team supervision and support, and operational logistics. 
• Manage other grant-funded programs across the organization as needed, ensuring alignment with funding requirements and educational objectives. 
• Lead scheduling, staffing, permits, and bookings for regional grant programs, ensuring adequate staff coverage and operational readiness. 
• Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise program staff, facilitating a positive team culture and supporting professional development. 
• Lead program debriefs.
• Maintain and supervise all logistical elements, including site agreements, transportation, food services, route planning, and curriculum implementation. 
•  Serve as the point of contact for students, families, delivery staff, and partner organizations. 
• Monitor and enforce risk management practices in line with OBC National Safety Policy, acting as regional safety officer where required. 
• Work collaboratively with other regional managers and directors to ensure smooth implementation of grant programs within regional contexts. 
• Support program delivery as needed to ensure program continuity and quality. 
• Support program administration, including reporting, incident documentation, evaluations, and operational planning. 
• Lead and mentor delivery staff in project and task management strategies.
• Contribute to program development, budget management, improvement initiatives, and grant reporting. 
• Ensure implementation of data collection tools and track metrics to ensure grant deliverables are achieved.
• Represent grant programs in national OBC meetings, retreats, and planning sessions.
•  Perform other related duties as assigned to support program delivery, organizational priorities, and emerging needs.

Qualifications & Experience

•  Post-secondary education in education, recreation, therapy, or related field 
• Minimum 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role, ideally managing program staff or facilitators 
• Experience in adventure-based or experiential education program delivery 
• Strong project management skills 
• Strong technical knowledge of wilderness program oversight, risk management, and safety standards 
• Excellent organizational, scheduling, and logistical planning skills 
• Ability to recruit, mentor, and maintain a cohesive and professional team culture 
• Deep understanding of equity, diversity, inclusion, trauma informed practice and anti-oppressive practices 
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and crisis management skills 
• Flexible and willing to work hours outside of a Monday to Friday workweek, including weekends, or holidays as required to meet program deliverables 
•  Eligible to work in Canada and able to travel nationally 

Required Certifications

•  Experience with risk management and participant information systems
• Police background check, including Vulnerable Sector Check 
• Class 4 Driver’s Licence & abstract (or willingness to obtain after hire) 
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) 80h with CPR-C 

Additional Assets

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.

The Role

The Seasonal Instructor plays a central role in delivering Outward Bound Canada’s Toronto Urban Wild programming, an urban outdoor education program that complements OBC’s wilderness expeditions. Programs take place in and around the Greater Toronto Area and integrate canoeing, backpacking, urban navigation, and experiential education to create continuous journeys through natural spaces within the city.

The Instructor is responsible for guiding students safely through their course experience while maximizing learning, growth, and group development. This role combines technical instruction, facilitation of group dynamics, and strong risk management in dynamic outdoor and urban environments. Instructors serve as teachers, role models, leaders, and mentors, bringing their individual style, creativity, and experience to each course.

What We Offer

• Location: Brickworks, Toronto.
• Salary: Full-time Seasonal Instructor: $45,000–$50,000 annually (prorated to contract duration)
• Per Diem Instructor: $160–$220 per day ($20 – $27 hourly), dependent on experience and certifications
• Benefits: Health Care Spending Account and Employee Assistance Plan
• Term: June – August, with possibility of extension
• Supervisor: Urban Wild Principal and Program Manager
• Application Deadline: Until position is filled; applications reviewed on a rolling basis
• Anticipated Start Date: June

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of students throughout the duration of each course.
• Lead and facilitate outdoor education programming in alignment with Outward Bound Canada’s mission, values, and National Safety Policy.
• Manage risk effectively through sound judgment, proactive decision-making, and adherence to established protocols.
• Teach technical skills including canoeing, backpacking, campcraft, navigation, and urban travel, using appropriate instructional methods for diverse learners.
• Facilitate group processes, including peer interactions, conflict resolution, reflection, and leadership development.
• Monitor, assess, and support student growth, engagement, and learning outcomes.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with students, co-instructors, and program staff.
• Complete required program documentation, reports, and administrative tasks in a timely manner.
• Support base and operational needs when not in the field, including equipment care, inventory, maintenance, and special projects.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Strong technical competence in canoeing, backpacking, wilderness travel, and associated risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with youth from diverse backgrounds and with varying levels of outdoor experience.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and group management skills.
• Commitment to student-centered learning, experiential education, and personal growth.
• Deep understanding of equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppressive practice, with a demonstrated commitment to dismantling systemic barriers.
• High level of cross-cultural competence and emotional intelligence.
• Eligible to work in Canada.
• Clear Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check by start date.
• Ability to work weekdays, weekends, holidays, and for extended periods in the field.

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.

The Role

The Seasonal Urban Wild Instructor (Evenings & Weekends) supports the delivery of Outward Bound Canada’s Toronto Urban Wild programming, an urban outdoor education program that complements OBC’s wilderness expeditions.

Programs take place in and around the Greater Toronto Area and are primarily scheduled during evenings and on weekends, making this role ideal for instructors seeking flexible, ongoing seasonal work. Programming integrates canoeing, backpacking, urban navigation, and experiential education to create meaningful journeys through natural spaces within the city.

Instructors are responsible for guiding students safely through their course experience while maximizing learning, growth, and group development. This role blends technical instruction, facilitation of group dynamics, and strong risk management in dynamic urban and outdoor environments. Instructors serve as teachers, mentors, leaders, and role models, bringing their individual style, creativity, and experience to each course.

What We Offer

• Location: Brickworks, Toronto.
• Salary: Per Diem or Hourly Instructor: $160–$220 per day ($20 – $27 hourly), dependent on experience and certifications
• Benefits: Health Care Spending Account and Employee Assistance Plan
• Term: Ongoing seasonal work; start anytime, based on program needs and instructor availability
• Schedule: Evenings and weekends
• Supervisor: Urban Wild Principal and Program Manager
• Application Deadline: Until position is filled; applications reviewed on a rolling basis

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of students throughout the duration of each course.
• Lead and facilitate outdoor education programming in alignment with Outward Bound Canada’s mission, values, and National Safety Policy.
• Manage risk effectively through sound judgment, proactive decision-making, and adherence to established protocols.
• Teach technical skills including canoeing, backpacking, campcraft, navigation, and urban travel, using appropriate instructional methods for diverse learners.
• Facilitate group processes, including peer interactions, conflict resolution, reflection, and leadership development.
• Monitor, assess, and support student growth, engagement, and learning outcomes.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with students, co-instructors, and program staff.
• Complete required program documentation, reports, and administrative tasks in a timely manner.
• Support base and operational needs when not in the field, including equipment care, inventory, maintenance, and special projects.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Strong technical competence in canoeing, backpacking, wilderness travel, and associated risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with youth from diverse backgrounds and with varying levels of outdoor experience.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and group management skills.
• Commitment to student-centered learning, experiential education, and personal growth.
• Deep understanding of equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppressive practice, with a demonstrated commitment to dismantling systemic barriers.
• High level of cross-cultural competence and emotional intelligence.
• Eligible to work in Canada.
• Clear Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check by start date.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends

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.

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.
• 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
• 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