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 does not precisely match the job description for this role. Your experience, skills, and passion will set you apart — 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

Outward Bound Canada is seeking a Director of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership and steward the long-term financial health of our organization. This is a senior role with real scope, supporting a dedicated team working every day to connect young people with transformative experiences in nature.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Finance is responsible for the financial strategy, operations, compliance, and risk management of OBC across all regions and program areas. Working closely with senior leadership and the Board, this role provides the financial foundation that allows OBC to make informed decisions, fulfill its obligations to funders, and deliver on its mission.

Are you an executive finance professional seeking greater balance and flexibility in your career? We welcome applications from accomplished leaders interested in a fractional role with a flexible arrangement. This opportunity is ideal for candidates who bring significant strategic leadership, deep financial expertise, and a desire to contribute at a high level while maintaining work-life balance.

What We Offer

• Location: Remote, work from home
• Salary: $80,000 to $90,000, commensurate with experience. Up to an additional $5,000 is offered for a CPA, CFA, or CFP designation.
• Benefits: Four weeks paid time off plus two weeks year-end closure, additional sick and wellness days, group RRSP, employer-paid extended health and dental, and Employee Assistance Plan
• Term: Full-time permanent (37.5 hrs/week), or fractional by arrangement. Flexible schedule aligned with organizational needs.
• Supervisor: Executive Director
• Anticipated Start Date: June 2026

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Reporting

• Lead the annual operating budget development process in consultation with Executive Director, leadership team and work with Treasurer to present the annual budget to the Finance Committee and Board.
• Prepare monthly forecasts adjusting for program scheduling and fundraising activity.
• Prepare and present monthly financial statements to the Finance Committee, including balance sheets, income statements, cash flow, variance and amortization schedules.
• Monitor and report on investments and restricted cash, including bursaries and grants.
• Prepare and present annual financial statements to the Finance Committee and annual budget to the Board.

Strategic and Operational Support

• Support the Executive Director in translating financial data into clear, actionable insights for organizational decision-making.
• Collaborate with the Executive Team and national departments to support organizational performance within OBC’s strategic plan.
• Identify and flag cost-saving opportunities and operational efficiencies for leadership consideration. 

Audit and Compliance

• Oversee the annual external audit process and serve as the primary relationship with outside auditors, preparing all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and well-supported audit.
• Ensure compliance with all government and charitable filing requirements, including multi-jurisdictional HST, corporate, and charitable filings.
• Develop, document, and continuously improve financial policies and procedures.

Risk Management

• Oversee OBC’s enterprise risk management framework, ensuring financial and operational activities align with risk protocols.
• Ensure all program-related financial functions are conducted in compliance with OBC’s risk management policies.
• Identify, assess, and escalate financial risk to the Executive Director and Board as appropriate.
• Assist in reviewing and strengthening operational and financial controls across the organization.

Grants, Restricted Funds, and Funder Relations

• Partner with the Development team to ensure aligned donation tracking between QuickBooks and Keela (donor CRM).
• Manage financial aspects of grants and contribution agreements, including budgeting, cash flow planning, and reconciliation.
• Oversee preparation, submission and tracking of monthly invoice and drawdown processes with funders. Assist the Grants Manager in tracking and reporting on the use of grant and other funding resources, both internally and externally.
• Serve as primary liaison with funders during grant and contract monitoring, and ensure compliance with all granting and government regulations as well as other applicable requirements related to charitable organizations.

General Accounting

• Oversee all accounting functions: process/review expenditures, payables and receivables, monthly.
• Monitor and manage cash flow and all banking relationships.
• Ensure financial information used for decision-making is accurately maintained, well-documented, and consistent with applicable accounting standards.

Facilities, Contracts, and Procurement

• Support facilities and contract management including insurance, leases, and vendor agreements.
• Oversee procurement processes to ensure financial accountability and alignment with organizational policies.
• As OBC grows its finance function, this role will have the opportunity to build and manage a small team, providing mentorship and oversight to future finance staff.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is required.
• CPA, CFA, or CFP designation is preferred and recognized with additional compensation.
• Strong background in nonprofit or charitable sector financial management, including knowledge of Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations.
• Experience managing audits, multi-jurisdictional compliance, and charitable reporting requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to track restricted funds, meet grant requirements, and produce clear financial reports for donors and funders.
• Proficiency in accounting software, with experience in QuickBooks or similar platforms considered a strong asset.
• Ability to translate complex financial information into clear, actionable insights for non-financial audiences.
• Familiarity with payroll administration and working knowledge of payroll compliance across multiple provinces.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A collaborative leadership style and genuine commitment to OBC’s mission.

Canada Summer Jobs  |  Outward Bound Canada

We’re hiring for 9 positions across our programs, regions, and national teams this summer. All roles are funded through Canada Summer Jobs and open to youth aged 15–30. We strongly encourage applications from BIPoC, 2SLGBTQ+, Indigenous, and equity-deserving youth. Select any position to view the full job description and apply.

BC Island  —  Courtenay–Alberni

Logistics Coordinator – Courtenay, BC Island

Location: BC Island  |  On-site
Compensation: $18.25/hr  |  11 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Keep programs running smoothly behind the scenes. This role supports the operational backbone of OBC’s BC Island programs through gear management, transportation coordination, and base logistics.

• Equipment prep, inventory management, and gear maintenance
• Transportation and shuttle coordination for courses and staff
• Base setup, takedown, and daily operational support

View full job description and apply →

Ontario  —  Minden, ON

Logistics Coordinator – Ontario North 

Location: Kinark Outdoor Centre, Minden ON  |  On-site
Compensation: $17.60/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Support the operational side of OBC’s Ontario North programs during a key rebuilding season. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives on keeping things organized and moving.

• Equipment prep, inventory management, and gear logistics
• Transportation and shuttle coordination for courses and staff
• Base operations support and daily program logistics

View full job description and apply →

National Teams  —  Remote (provincial requirements detailed below)

Program Assistant – Education 

Location: Remote (BC). Proximity to our operating bases in Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island operating base is an asset.
Compensation: $18.25/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Support the development and refinement of OBC’s experiential education programs from behind the scenes. This research-focused role sits at the intersection of curriculum design and environmental education.

• Research curriculum connections across environmental issues, ecological literacy, and experiential learning theory
• Assist in developing lesson plans, activity guides, and facilitation resources for instructors in the field
• Support digital content development and updates to curriculum handbooks and manuals
• Connect with environmental organizations and Indigenous communities to enrich OBC’s programming

View full job description and apply →

Mental Health and Youth Support Worker

Location: Remote (BC). Proximity to our operating bases in the Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island operating base is an asset.
Compensation: $18.25/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Build OBC’s capacity to support the well-being of youth participants, instructors, and program staff across BC Island programming.

• Develop wellness resources, check-in tools, and debrief frameworks for field staff
• Contribute to mental health policy and incident protocol development
• Provide on-the-ground support to students and instructors during active programs

View full job description and apply →

Admissions Program Assistant  × 2

Location: Remote (Ontario). Proximity to our operating bases in Minden or Toronto is an asset.
Compensation: $17.60/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  2 positions
A key point of contact for youth applicants and their families as they prepare for an OBC program. You bring a genuine commitment to making every young person feel ready before they arrive on course.

• Conduct applicant interviews and support medical screening with care and cultural humility
• Coordinate course documents and enrolment tracking across regions
• Contribute to inclusion-focused improvements to the admissions process

View full job description and apply →

National Teams  —  Remote (provincial requirements detailed below)

Digital Marketing Coordinator

Location: Remote (Ontario). Proximity to our operating bases in Minden or Toronto is an asset.
Compensation: $17.60/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Support OBC’s marketing team in bringing our programs and stories to life online. A creative role for someone who thinks in campaigns and captions and wants their work to connect to a mission that matters.

• Create and schedule content across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok
• Support email campaigns, website updates, and participant storytelling
• Monitor analytics and help shape content strategy

View full job description and apply →

Fundraising & Development Administrative Assistant

Location: Remote (Ontario). Proximity to our operating bases in Minden or Toronto is an asset.
Compensation: $17.60/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Support the Development team across donor engagement, campaign coordination, and the administrative work that keeps fundraising programs running. A role for someone detail-oriented who wants their work to connect to something they believe in.

• Maintain donor database and support acknowledgment and stewardship processes
• Assist with fundraising events, campaign logistics, and grant research
• Help draft donor communications and impact storytelling content

View full job description and apply →

Human Resources Assistant

Location: Remote (Ontario). Proximity to our operating bases in Minden or Toronto is an asset.
Compensation: $17.60/hr  |  8 weeks  |  35 hrs/week  |  1 position
Support OBC’s People & Culture team across recruitment, onboarding, employee records, and engagement initiatives. A role for someone organized, discreet, and genuinely curious about how people and organizations work well together.

• Assist with recruitment coordination, onboarding materials, and HR documentation
• Support employee engagement initiatives and staff recognition
• Contribute to HR policy projects and process improvement

View full job description and apply →

All positions are subject to Canada Summer Jobs eligibility requirements. Applicants must be between 15 and 30 years of age, Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons, and legally entitled to work in Canada. A clear Criminal Record and/or Vulnerable Sector check will be required for roles working directly with youth.

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