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Backpack Guide Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Backpack Guide information

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Backpack Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backpack Guide, you need strong outdoor survival skills, wilderness navigation experience, and certifications in first aid or wilderness medicine. Familiarity with GPS devices, map and compass navigation, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles are typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help guide groups safely and foster a positive experience. These abilities are crucial for ensuring client safety, managing unexpected challenges, and delivering memorable outdoor adventures.

What is the difference between Backpack Guide vs Tour Guide?

AspectBackpack GuideTour Guide
CredentialsOften requires outdoor or adventure certifications, first aid, and sometimes language skillsTypically needs tourism or hospitality certifications, language skills, and local knowledge
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, trekking routes, adventure parksIndoor and outdoor sites, museums, city tours
Employer & IndustryAdventure travel companies, outdoor tour operatorsTravel agencies, sightseeing companies, museums
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing outdoor adventure rolesPeople interested in city or cultural tours

The main difference between a Backpack Guide and a Tour Guide lies in their work environment and required skills. Backpack Guides focus on outdoor, adventure-based settings, often requiring outdoor certifications, while Tour Guides typically operate in urban or cultural sites with hospitality or tourism credentials. Both roles serve travelers but cater to different experiences and settings.

What are some common challenges faced by backpack guides during multi-day trips?

Backpack guides often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, ensuring group safety, and managing diverse skill levels among participants. They must be well-prepared to handle unexpected situations, like injuries or route changes, while keeping morale high and maintaining a positive group dynamic. Effective communication, sound judgment, and strong leadership are essential for successfully overcoming these obstacles and providing a memorable, safe experience for all participants.

What does a backpack guide do?

A backpack guide is a professional who leads individuals or groups on multi-day hiking or trekking trips, often in remote or wilderness areas. Their responsibilities include planning routes, ensuring the safety of participants, providing information about the local environment, and helping with camping logistics such as setting up tents and preparing meals. Backpack guides are trained in first aid, navigation, and outdoor survival skills to handle emergencies and enhance the experience for their clients. They also educate hikers about Leave No Trace principles and the natural or cultural history of the areas visited.
What are popular job titles related to Backpack Guide jobs in Ohio? For Backpack Guide jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Backpack Guide jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Backpack Guide job openings:

$17.78/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
The Transitions Case Manager provides comprehensive case management services to individuals impacted by substance use disorder who are participating in the Transitions Program and returning to the workforce. Reporting to the Workforce & Business Development Case Management Coordinator, this role is responsible for assessing eligibility, developing individualized employment and training plans, coordinating supportive services, and guiding participants toward sustainable employment. The Transitions Case Manager works collaboratively with recovery agencies, behavioral health providers, employers, training providers, and community partners to support long-term recovery, workforce reintegration, and program success.
Program Delivery
Estimated Effort: 50%
  • Screen and assess applicants for WIOA eligibility in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines; gather and verify all required documentation to ensure compliance.
  • Assist participants with completion of intake and enrollment requirements, including Eligibility Applications, OMJ Backpack setup, WorkKeys testing, TABE testing, Future Plans assessments, and other career-related evaluations.
  • Enter and maintain accurate client data in the ARIES case management system, including documentation of services, barriers, Individual Employment Plans (IEPs), progress monitoring, performance measures, monthly case notes, and follow-up surveys.
  • Evaluate applicants to determine appropriateness for services, ensuring resources are targeted effectively and aligned with program goals and eligibility standards.
  • Provide ongoing case management services, including regular client reviews, follow-ups, attendance monitoring, and issue resolution to support successful completion of service plans.
  • Identify client needs and provide referrals to supportive services and community resources, including CAC programs, social service agencies, recovery agencies, behavioral health providers, and other partners addressing barriers such as housing, childcare, transportation, healthcare, and recovery support.
  • Facilitate placement into post-secondary training and/or unsubsidized employment by maintaining proactive communication with training providers, employers, and clients.
  • Assist clients with resume development, cover letter preparation, interview practice, and job readiness activities; provide retention services to support employment stability.
  • Coordinate work experience placements under supervision of the Coordinator, including employer recruitment, participant matching, monitoring performance, and maintaining employer relationships.
  • Contribute to the development and delivery of life skills and educational workshops designed to support recovery, employability, and long-term self-sufficiency.
  • Work toward achieving WIOA performance outcomes, including placement at exit, employment retention in the 2nd and 4th quarters post-exit, credential attainment, median wage gains, and measurable skill increases.
  • Support achievement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aligned with the agency's strategic plan.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and protect Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in compliance with agency policies and state and federal regulations.
Case File Management
Estimated Effort: 30%
  • Maintain complete, accurate, and compliant case files in accordance with State and Federal WIOA regulations, including eligibility documentation, service records, training accounts, purchase orders, and invoices.
  • Perform data validation to ensure consistency between case files and the ARIES case management system.
  • Ensure timely and thorough case note documentation, with at least monthly updates detailing client activities, services provided, progress toward goals, and outcomes.
  • Adhere to all CAC, ODJFS, and Workforce Development Area #1 policies and procedures related to documentation standards, confidentiality, and file management.
  • Maintain accurate and compliant files for Special Grant programs (e.g., Car Repair Program), ensuring audit readiness at all times.
Outreach Delivery
Estimated Effort: 10%
  • Participate in outreach and recruitment activities to increase awareness of OhioMeansJobs Pike County and Transitions Program services.
  • Attend community events, OMJ Van events, and outreach initiatives to connect with potential clients, employers, recovery agencies, and community partners.
  • Communicate with employers, social service agencies, recovery agencies, and behavioral health providers to align workforce opportunities with client needs.
  • Provide backup support in the OMJ Center as needed, including greeting clients, assisting with intake paperwork, referring clients to services, and supporting job search activities.
  • Attend meetings, conferences, and trainings related to workforce development, recovery services, and case management and communicate relevant information to stakeholders.
  • Distribute program information through flyers, presentations, and direct outreach efforts.
Service and Other Responsibilities
Estimated Effort: 10%
  • Adhere to all agency safety policies and procedures.
  • Serve on CAC committees and collaborate to promote service coordination and continuous improvement.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor to support program and organizational goals.
Minimum Requirements
Education:
  • Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification with an active Ohio license OR
  • Associate degree in Social Work, Human Services, Specialized Studies with a Case Management concentration, or a related field, with the ability to obtain CDCA certification within six (6) months of hire.

Licenses, Certifications, and Accreditations:
  • Valid Ohio driver's license
  • Ability to be insured under agency insurance
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with diverse populations in varied settings
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with strong Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
  • Knowledge of client case management, workforce development, and recovery-oriented services
  • Experience using client tracking or case management systems
Working Conditions
This position operates in a well-lighted office environment and requires occasional local and regional travel (up to 40%). Evening and weekend work may be required. The role is fast-paced and involves managing multiple priorities, detailed documentation, and coordination with recovery and workforce partners, with low-to-moderate levels of stress.