ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wilderness First Responder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Grace Adventures

Health Officer

Mears, MI · On-site

Wilderness first responder * Responding to emergencies * Must have current CPR certification or training will be provided. * At least 18 years old.

Eagle's Nest Foundation

$12.25 - $16/hr

Wilderness First Responder Certification * At least 21 years of age, a citizen of the United States, a clean driving record, and a willingness and ability to drive participants and staff in vehicles ...

Nantahala Outdoor Center

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWilderness First Responder Jobs

Wilderness First Responder information

See salary details

$10

$30

$75

How much do wilderness first responder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness first responder in the United States is $30.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $41.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Wilderness First Responder job?

A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is trained to provide emergency medical care in remote and outdoor environments where professional help may be delayed. WFRs assess injuries, stabilize patients, and manage medical situations with limited resources. They often work as outdoor guides, park rangers, or emergency responders in wilderness settings. Their training includes CPR, wound care, splinting, and managing environmental emergencies like hypothermia or altitude sickness.

What can I do with a wilderness first responder certification?

A wilderness first responder certification qualifies individuals to provide emergency medical care in remote or outdoor settings, often enabling them to work as outdoor guides, park rangers, or emergency responders in wilderness environments. It demonstrates skills in patient assessment, trauma management, and CPR, which are valuable for roles requiring immediate medical assistance in the field.

What jobs make 10,000 a month without a degree?

Wilderness First Responders typically do not earn $10,000 a month; however, high-paying outdoor or adventure jobs such as freelance guides, outdoor instructors, or specialized rescue professionals can reach that level with experience, certifications, and working in remote or high-demand environments. These roles often require certifications, physical fitness, and the ability to work irregular hours.

What are the typical work environments and team dynamics for Wilderness First Responders?

Wilderness First Responders often work in remote or rugged outdoor settings, such as on expeditions, in camps, or during adventure travel programs, where access to immediate medical care is limited. Team structures can vary; you may work alongside guides, outdoor educators, or other medical specialists, and sometimes in solo roles. Daily responsibilities include patient assessment, emergency care, coordinating evacuations, and maintaining safety protocols for groups. Adaptability and clear communication with both peers and non-medical personnel are essential for effective teamwork. Being prepared for physically and mentally demanding conditions is a key aspect of the role.

How do I become a wilderness first responder?

To become a wilderness first responder, you must complete a certified training course that covers emergency medical skills specific to remote environments, typically lasting 16 to 24 hours. After training, you receive a certification that is valid for two years and may need to be renewed through refresher courses; skills include patient assessment, CPR, and trauma management in outdoor settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wilderness First Responder position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wilderness First Responder, you need strong emergency medical skills, knowledge of remote care protocols, and physical stamina, typically backed by certification from recognized organizations such as NOLS or SOLO. Familiarity with tools such as first aid kits, splinting materials, and communication devices like satellite phones is crucial. Outstanding problem-solving, calm decision-making, and effective teamwork are soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities are vital to ensuring safety, providing high-quality care, and managing emergencies in challenging outdoor environments.

How much do wilderness first responders get paid?

Wilderness First Responders typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the organization. Many work on a part-time or seasonal basis, often in outdoor or remote environments, and certification in first aid and CPR is usually required.
More about Wilderness First Responder jobs
What cities are hiring for Wilderness First Responder jobs? Cities with the most Wilderness First Responder job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wilderness First Responder jobs? The most popular types of Wilderness First Responder jobs are:
What states have the most Wilderness First Responder jobs? States with the most job openings for Wilderness First Responder jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wilderness First Responder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wilderness First Responder jobs are:
Wilderness First Responder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness First Responder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 7% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 85% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,233 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Wilderness Medicine Instructor (SOLO Program)

Wilderness Medicine Instructor (SOLO Program)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bryson City, NC • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

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.