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Wilderness First Aid Instructor Jobs in Virginia

Prevailance

Paramedic

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

First Aid / CPR or Wilderness First Responder certification preferred * Familiarity with USAF SERE program structure and hierarchy Education: * High School diploma or GED

Liberty

Hydaway Operations Assistant

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$12.77/hr

Wilderness First Aid Certifications, Challenge Course Certifications, and/or Swiftwater Rescue Certifications * Previous experience with outdoor recreation programming or facilities * Experience in a ...

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Wilderness First Aid Instructor information

What does a Wilderness First Aid Instructor do?

A Wilderness First Aid Instructor is responsible for teaching individuals and groups how to respond to medical emergencies in remote or outdoor settings where access to professional medical help may be delayed. They provide hands-on instruction in essential first aid skills, such as treating wounds, fractures, hypothermia, and other common wilderness injuries. Instructors also educate students on how to assess situations, prioritize care, and use improvised materials when standard medical supplies are unavailable. Their goal is to prepare people to handle emergencies confidently and effectively in the backcountry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wilderness First Aid Instructor?

To thrive as a Wilderness First Aid Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of wilderness medicine, strong instructional abilities, and certification in wilderness first aid or higher (such as Wilderness First Responder or EMT). Familiarity with training tools, first aid equipment, and outdoor navigation systems is important, as well as recognized instructor certifications (e.g., from NOLS or SOLO). Excellent communication, leadership, and adaptability help instructors engage diverse learners and manage unpredictable field scenarios. These skills ensure effective training delivery, participant safety, and the ability to handle emergencies in remote environments.

What are some common challenges Wilderness First Aid Instructors face when teaching in outdoor environments?

Wilderness First Aid Instructors often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying terrain, and limited access to traditional classroom resources. These factors require instructors to be adaptable and creative in delivering course material, often using hands-on scenarios in real-world settings. Additionally, instructors must be prepared to manage group dynamics and ensure student safety throughout practical exercises, all while maintaining engagement and meeting curriculum standards.

What is the difference between Wilderness First Aid Instructor vs Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician?

AspectWilderness First Aid InstructorWilderness Emergency Medical Technician
CertificationsWilderness First Aid (WFA) certification, instructor trainingWilderness EMT certification, advanced medical training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, training courses, wilderness programsRemote outdoor rescue, medical response teams, expeditions
Employer & IndustryOutdoor education providers, adventure programsSearch and rescue teams, outdoor medical services

Wilderness First Aid Instructors focus on teaching WFA courses and training others in outdoor emergency care, often working in outdoor education settings. Wilderness EMTs provide advanced medical care in wilderness environments, often responding to emergencies. While both roles require wilderness medical certifications, instructors emphasize teaching skills, whereas EMTs deliver direct medical treatment in the field.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Wilderness First Aid Instructor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Wilderness First Aid Instructor job openings:

Wilderness First Aid Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness First Aid Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Outdoor Adventure Instructor (Staff Wage)

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Virginiaexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The University of Virginia Recreation Department is currently looking for Outdoor Adventure Instructors to lead activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking. Programs typically range from 2-hour clinics to full-day trips.
Previous outdoor experience is required. Instructor certifications in kayaking and/or climbing programs are preferred. CPR, First Aid, and Wilderness First Aid certifications are also preferred, though these will be provided upon hiring.
This is a wage position which is not eligible for leave or other benefits and is limited to 1500 hours of work in a year. For more information, refer to the Wage Employment link: http://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-029 .
To apply, please submit an application online at https://jobs.virginia.edu and attach a current Resume . Search on requisition number: R0068794 .
Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Questions related to the application process may be directed to Keith Johnson, HR Specialist at fkj2t@virginia.edu.
The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This position will require a DMV Check.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: High school diploma
Experience: Previous outdoor experience is required.
Licensure: CPR/First Aid (provided once hired). Valid Virginia Drivers License required.
Preferred Certification: CPR/First Aid/Wilderness First Aid; Instructor certifications such as through ACA for paddling, and AMGA/PCIA/PCGI for climbing.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of outdoor recreation activities to be taught.
  • Strong communication skills, written and verbal. Ability to engage students and staff in a professional manner.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to lift 50 pounds, hike and/or kayak multiple miles in one day.
Job Profile
J1322 - Education and Outreach Operations and Service 2
Career Stream and Level
Operations and Service-O2
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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