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International Service Learning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

buildOn

Trek Director

Bronx, NY · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Trek Director leads buildOn's immersive international service-learning program - Trek. buildOn Trek, which is rooted in solidarity, brings U.S. students and buildOn supporters together with ...

buildOn

Trek Director

New York, NY · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Trek Director leads buildOn's immersive international service-learning program - Trek. buildOn Trek, which is rooted in solidarity, brings U.S. students and buildOn supporters together with ...

buildOn Inc.

Trek Director

Stamford, CT · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Trek Director leads buildOn's immersive international service-learning program - Trek. buildOn Trek, which is rooted in solidarity, brings U.S. students and buildOn supporters together with ...

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How much do international service learning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for international service learning in the United States is $27.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in international service learning programs?

Professionals in International Service Learning often encounter challenges such as navigating cultural differences, coordinating logistics across time zones, and ensuring ethical engagement with local communities. Adapting to diverse communication styles and managing expectations—both of participants and host organizations—are also key aspects of the role. Successful practitioners develop strong cross-cultural communication skills, flexibility, and a deep understanding of global service ethics to address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between International Service Learning vs International Development Worker?

AspectInternational Service LearningInternational Development Worker
Required CredentialsTypically high school or college-level; some programs may require specific courseworkBachelor's degree or higher in development, social sciences, or related fields
Work EnvironmentShort-term, volunteer-based projects often in community settingsLong-term projects, often with NGOs or government agencies in developing countries
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, NGOs, volunteer organizationsInternational NGOs, government agencies, development firms

International Service Learning focuses on short-term volunteer projects aimed at educational and cultural exchange, often involving students. In contrast, International Development Workers engage in long-term projects to improve infrastructure, health, and economic development in communities. Both roles require a passion for global service but differ in scope, duration, and professional credentials.

What is international service learning?

International service learning is a form of experiential education in which students or participants travel to another country to engage in community-based service projects while learning about local cultures and global issues. The programs typically combine hands-on volunteer work—such as teaching, building infrastructure, or supporting healthcare initiatives—with structured reflection and academic learning. This approach helps participants develop cross-cultural skills, global awareness, and a sense of social responsibility. International service learning experiences are popular among students seeking personal growth, professional development, and meaningful contributions to communities abroad.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in international service learning roles?

To thrive in International Service Learning roles, you need a background in education, community development, or social sciences, often supported by cross-cultural experience or relevant degrees. Familiarity with project management tools, data collection systems, and sometimes language proficiency or certifications in global engagement are commonly required. Strong communication, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity are vital soft skills for effective collaboration and relationship-building in diverse environments. These skills ensure meaningful, ethical contributions and successful partnerships that create sustainable positive impact in global communities.
More about International Service Learning jobs
What job categories do people searching International Service Learning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for International Service Learning jobs are:
International Service Learning jobs near you
Infographic showing various International Service Learning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,993 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Trek Director

buildOn

Bronx, NY • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Location: New York City or Stamford, CT
Travel: Up to 50% travel both in the US and to buildOn partner countries
Hours/FLSA: Full Time/Exempt
Schedule: Monday - Friday, Weekends for Trek Events
Salary: $85,000 -$95,000
Interested applicants must submit their resume and a cover letter.
buildOn is a global nonprofit that unites people through service and education to ignite opportunity (buildon.org). Service builds leaders. We mobilize communities in low-income countries to build schools. American youth transform their own communities through service and change the world by helping build these schools.
The Opportunity:
The Trek Director leads buildOn's immersive international service-learning program - Trek. buildOn Trek, which is rooted in solidarity, brings U.S. students and buildOn supporters together with underserved communities to build a school. The program is thoughtfully designed for participants to immerse in a rural community while exploring buildOn's Constructive Leadership Principles, which include: Courage, Empathy, Passion for the Possible, Resilience, and Solidarity.
The Trek Director oversees the full lifecycle of Trek experiences, from participant recruitment and pre-Trek preparation to the in-country Trek experience and post-Trek support and reflection.
The Trek Director leads a highly skilled global team across multiple countries to ensure Trek participants have a transformational experience rooted in service, solidarity, cultural humility, and safety.
The ideal candidate is an experienced leader who can balance strategic planning with operational execution, relationship-building, participant engagement, and risk management. Strong communication, cross-cultural competency, and attention to detail are essential.
This position requires frequent international travel and the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends during Trek seasons.
Key Responsibilities
  • Trek Program Leadership & Operations: Oversee the full planning, execution, and evaluation of buildOn Trek programs, ensuring experiences are impactful, well-organized, and aligned with buildOn's mission and service-learning model. Embed Constructive Leadership principles throughout the Trek experience in partnership with a cross-departmental taskforce. Work with the Operations Team to launch and maintain buildOn's participant preparation portal for seamless Trek onboarding. Utilize post-Trek participant surveys to drive continuous program improvement.
  • Safety & Risk Management: Ensure the safety of all Trek participants by training staff in risk management protocols and maintaining active partnerships with International SOS, the U.S. Department of State, and other risk-management partners. Coordinate emergency response protocols and serve as the primary point of accountability for participant safety across all in-country Trek experiences.
  • Staff Leadership & Development: Lead a team of U.S.-based Trek staff and globally distributed Trek professionals, providing coaching, feedback, and support to ensure Trek experiences are consistently high-quality. Conduct regular field audits and foster a culture of continuous improvement and Constructive Leadership development across the Trek team.
  • Partnership with Development: Partner with the Fundraising team on the Trek schedule for donors, managing logistics and experiences for high-profile individuals. Represent the Trek department with donors in meetings and at special events, serving as a key ambassador for the program.
  • buildOn U.S. Student Recruitment & Preparation: In partnership with buildOn U.S. leadership, lead recruitment efforts to increase the number of buildOn high school students who participate in Trek, with particular emphasis on the Bronx. Lead a team of Trek Specialists to facilitate participant onboarding, orientation, preparation sessions, and pre-Trek training. Develop curriculum rooted in Constructive Leadership principles to ensure a transformational Trek experience for all participants.
  • Financial Management & Administration: Develop and manage Trek budgets, monitor program expenses, and track participation metrics and operational data. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, travel requirements, and international protocols.
  • Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Partner across departments, including Development, Marketing, Finance, Programs, and Operations, to align Trek programming with broader organizational goals and ensure Trek's visibility and impact are reflected in buildOn's storytelling and fundraising.
Qualifications
  • Deep commitment to buildOn's mission, values, and youth-centered service-learning model.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in international program management, youth development, service-learning, or a related field, with a track record of leading student travel or immersive service programs.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-region projects and logistics across diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
  • Cross-cultural competency and experience working in international settings.
  • Calm under pressure with sound judgment in risk management and emergency decision-making.
  • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.

buildOn is an equal opportunity employer. For more information about buildOn, please visit: www.buildon.org
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
buildOn is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive environment that drives innovation, strengthens ONE buildOn and bolsters a culture where people truly feel valued, heard and respected. buildOn provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or veteran status.
To learn more about buildOn, please visit our website at www.buildOn.org.

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