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Wilderness First Aid Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Current Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification. * Current Wilderness First Responder or WEMT very strongly preferred. * Lifeguard Certification strongly preferred. * Documented skills in one or ...

SOLO Instructor

Bryson City, NC · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Primary responsibilities of instructors are to teach Wilderness First Aid (WFA), CPR, Wilderness First Responder (WFR), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) courses. Instructors are responsible for ...

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Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) a plus · Spanish bilingual ability is highly valued · Passion or interest in environmental studies, gardening, psychology, and/or ...

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Wilderness First Aid information

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How much do wilderness first aid jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness first aid in the United States is $21.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Wilderness First Aid providers in the field?

Wilderness First Aid providers often encounter challenges such as limited access to medical equipment, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need to improvise with available resources. Communication with emergency services may be difficult due to remote locations, making self-reliance and adaptability crucial. Additionally, providers frequently work in teams, requiring clear communication and collaboration to assess situations and prioritize care under pressure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wilderness First Aid responder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wilderness First Aid responder, you need a solid understanding of emergency medical protocols, injury assessment, and environmental hazards, typically gained through a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification. Familiarity with first aid kits, improvised medical tools, and communication devices like satellite phones is crucial. Strong decision-making, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that responders can provide critical care and manage emergencies effectively in remote or resource-limited settings.

What is the difference between Wilderness First Aid vs Wilderness EMT?

AspectWilderness First AidWilderness EMT
CertificationsWFA certificationWFA + EMT certification
Work EnvironmentBackcountry, remote outdoor settingsMore advanced medical scenarios, outdoor and remote areas
Skills & ScopeBasic first aid, CPR, patient assessmentAdvanced medical procedures, medication administration
Employer & IndustryOutdoor education, adventure guides, rescue teamsSearch and rescue, outdoor medical services

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) provides foundational first aid skills for outdoor settings, while Wilderness EMT (WEMT) offers more advanced medical training suitable for emergency medical situations in remote areas. WFA is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and guides, whereas WEMT is suited for those seeking a higher level of medical intervention in wilderness environments.

What is Wilderness First Aid?

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is a specialized form of medical training that prepares individuals to handle medical emergencies in remote or outdoor settings where professional help may be delayed. The training covers essential skills such as patient assessment, treatment of injuries and illnesses, and improvisation with limited supplies. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, guides, camp staff, and anyone who spends time in areas far from immediate medical assistance. Completing a WFA course equips you to respond effectively to emergencies in the wilderness and can be a valuable asset during outdoor adventures.
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What cities are hiring for Wilderness First Aid jobs? Cities with the most Wilderness First Aid job openings:
What states have the most Wilderness First Aid jobs? States with the most job openings for Wilderness First Aid jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wilderness First Aid jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wilderness First Aid jobs are:
Wilderness Medicine Instructor (SOLO Program)

Wilderness Medicine Instructor (SOLO Program)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bryson City, NC • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation.

JOB SUMMARY

SOLO Instructors conduct courses in the fields of wilderness medicine, CPR, first aid, wilderness survival, and emergency medicine. Primary responsibilities of instructors are to teach Wilderness First Aid (WFA), CPR, Wilderness First Responder (WFR), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) courses. Instructors are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures, leading, and moderating classroom discussions, running hands-on scenarios, and administering and grading examinations and practical assessments. The instructor is expected to provide positive student interactions/experiences and to take all precautions to keep guests and other instructors prepared and safe.


Responsibilities and Duties:
• Plan, prepare, and deliver instructional activities that facilitate active learning experiences.
• Develop lesson plans and establish/communicate clear objectives for all learning activities.
• Observe and evaluate student's performance and development and provide appropriate feedback on work.
• Prepare classroom for class activities and check equipment and paperwork prior to start of class.
• Instruct and monitor students in the use of learning materials and equipment.
• Complete end of course activities in a timely manner including, but not limited to, end of course paperwork and classroom/equipment clean-up.
• Assist in maintaining social media accounts and post relevant content
• Assist with inventory control and equipment maintenance
• Research and develop classroom resources for instructors
• Answer phones in a professional manner
• Train instructors as prescribed by the Manager and Assistant Manager
• Stay updated with developments in subject areas and make relevant changes to instructional plans and activities.


Position Qualifications

Outdoor and Medical Background
• Experience leading trips in back-country settings
• Worked for more than one season as a head guide/trip leader
• Medical provider: EMS, ski patrol, military, rescue squad or other channels

Teaching Experience:
• Experience teaching in a classroom and an outdoor environment
• Knowledge of concepts and experience teaching to adult learners
• Understanding of methods and principles of experiential education
• Medical teaching experience is preferred

Education:
• High School diploma or equivalent required - College degree preferred
• Current medical certification – EMT minimum requirement; EMT, RN, Paramedic, MD preferred
• Previous wilderness medicine training or equivalent required

Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs
• Must be able to walk 3 miles over uneven terrain


The above noted job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of this position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of this position.

Please note that as an employer with over 100 employees, NOC will be required to comply with any OSHA Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard should that standard be enacted.

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.