Ontario wilderness course director
Outward Bound Canada is committed to inclusion and strives to have broad representation that reflects the diversity of Canada.We encourage applications from candidates who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Colour or People of the Global Majority, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and all other equity-deserving groups.
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
The Ontario Wilderness Seasonal Course Directors will help oversee and manage Outward Bound courses; from course planning and preparation, to implementation and wrap-up, serving as the primary support team for the instructors. This is a great position for those who have spent considerable time leading expeditions and are looking for a coordination role working with a diverse group of instructors and clientele. You will be working closely with our full-time year-round Program Manager, who will provide you with mentorship, guidance and support. Our expedition areas range from Algonquin Park to Western Quebec and Northern Ontario. Please note that experience with Outward Bound Canada is not required to apply to this role. Training will be provided to the successful candidate to ensure their success in this position.
what we offer
Location: Ontario Wilderness Base – Kinark Outdoor Centre – Minden, ON
Salary: Full Time, 4 month contract term, pay range $47,000 – 52,000/yr (prorated to duration of contract)
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package and Employee Assistance Plan
Term: Full Time Fix-Termed Contract (37.5/hours weekly)
Supervisor: Ontario Wilderness Course Director
Application Deadline: May 26, 2024
Anticipated Start Date: July 1, 2024
Anticipated End Date: October 31, 2024, with the possibility to extend
duties and responsibilities
● Serve as an integral link between program management and instructors
● Serve as a trainer, mentor and coach to the instructor team
● Translate pertinent information from clients and/or the Admissions Department to instructors
● Support in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all employees
● Assist instructor team in all aspects of course delivery
● Oversee instructor field communications during on-call shifts and coordinate emergency response with support from the Regional and National Safety Officers when necessary
● Promote adherence to OBC’s safety policies, standard operating procedures and local operating procedures
● Assist in the coordination and implementation of instructor training programs
● Assist in managing the functionality, safety and cleanliness of buildings, vehicles, equipment and other assets
● Oversee and manage course preparation, implementation, and wrap-up, ensuring completion of all course-end tasks
● Ensure that all documentation is completed according to OBC’s requirements
● Facilitate courses and/or programs in an instructor role should the need arise
● Transport staff and/or equipment to off-site locations while adhering to OBC’s National Transportation Policy
● Perform reconnaissance of new course areas when necessary
REQUIREMENTS
- Required
- Valid Ontario G-Class drivers license or other provincial equivalent
- Clean Driver’s Abstract
- Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR – 80hrs) or willingness to obtain prior to contract start date
- Assets
- Current Bronze Cross or NL certification through Lifesaving Society
- Current Whitewater Rescue Technician (WRT) certification
- Post-secondary education in outdoor education, recreation, therapy or other related fields
ASSETS
- 2+ years as an Outdoor Educator/Instructor or facilitator in either expedition settings and/or facility based programs
- Keen attention to detail with strong organizational skills
- Strong technical skills and experience specific to canoeing, backpacking, and wilderness expedition
- Demonstrated success in developing and maintaining relationships with peers and other support staff
- Experience in mentoring, training and/or coaching, with the ability to instruct individuals with diverse learning styles
- Prior experience working with staff with backgrounds different than one’s own
- Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects at a time
- Strong written and oral communication skills, with demonstrated commitment to using inclusive language
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is required
- Familiarity with wilderness tripping areas in but not limited to Central Ontario, Northern Ontario and Quebec
- Must be willing and able to work evenings and weekends
- Must be eligible to work in Canada
- Must have or be willing to get a Vulnerable Sector Check before the contract start date
Application deadline: May 26, 2024 or until the position is filled; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
- Finalize your cover letter and resume in one pdf file.
- Fill out this webform above.
- Attach your cover letter and resume 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 in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodations.