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Wilderness Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CHADWICK SCHOOL

Outdoor Education Instructor

CA · On-site

$20/hr

Appropriate course area backcountry wilderness experience, both personal and professional * Experience with students ranging from grade 7-12 * Instructors must have and maintain a clean driving ...

All JobsWilderness Instructor JobsWilderness Instructor Jobs in California

Wilderness Instructor information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$35

How much do wilderness instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness instructor in California is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wilderness instructor?

A Wilderness Instructor is responsible for leading and educating groups in outdoor environments, teaching survival skills, navigation, and environmental awareness. They facilitate safe wilderness experiences, often working with youth programs, adventure camps, or outdoor education organizations. Their duties include risk management, first aid, and fostering teamwork. Wilderness Instructors need strong outdoor skills, leadership abilities, and knowledge of safety protocols.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a wilderness instructor?

To thrive as a Wilderness Instructor, you need expertise in outdoor skills, risk management, group leadership, and a foundational knowledge of environmental science, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with navigation tools (maps, compasses, GPS), safety equipment, and emergency communication systems is essential. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities help instructors effectively support and motivate diverse groups in unpredictable environments. These competencies ensure safety, foster learning, and create positive outdoor experiences for participants.

What are the common challenges faced by wilderness instructors?

Wilderness Instructors often face unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and unexpected emergencies, all while maintaining group morale and safety. Adapting lesson plans or routes on-the-fly and managing group dynamics in remote settings can be demanding but highly rewarding. Strong problem-solving skills and physical endurance are essential to handle these situations effectively. These challenges are part of what makes the job dynamic and fulfilling, as they provide opportunities to develop leadership and resilience while making a positive impact on participants' outdoor experiences.

How to get a job as a wilderness instructor?

To become a wilderness instructor, candidates typically need relevant outdoor experience, such as guiding or teaching outdoor skills, and certifications like Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Many employers also require a background check and strong communication skills, with some positions favoring prior experience in outdoor education or adventure programs.

What are popular job titles related to Wilderness Instructor jobs in California?

For Wilderness Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wilderness Instructor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Wilderness Instructor jobs in California are:

Wilderness Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,525 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Bushcraft & Wilderness Survival Instructor

Firstsource

Hayward, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Firstsource rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 72 rated call and contact centers

Job description

Calling All Outdoor Survival, Primitive Skills & Bushcraft Enthusiasts

Do you spend your weekends practicing friction fire, carving wood, rigging tarp shelters, tying functional knots, and navigating backcountry terrain? We are seeking a knowledgeable Bushcraft and Wilderness Survival Instructor to lead a hands-on workshop series for a small group of adult learners.

Contract Type: 1099 Independent Contractor

Duration: Approximately 2 months

Location: San Francisco Bay Area, CA

Class Size: 5 adult learners


What You Will Be Doing

  • Lead practical demonstrations across core survival topics including knife and saw safety, shelter building, firecraft, knots, campcraft, and water filtration basics.
  • Use a talk-aloud teaching approach to explain what you are doing, how you are doing it, and why.
  • Mentor and coach learners as they practice techniques in a safe environment.
  • Assist in developing a 10-lesson curriculum outline and supporting reference materials.


Who We Are Looking For

  • Experienced bushcraft, wilderness survival, or outdoor education instructors with strong hands-on expertise.
  • Individuals who can both develop a structured curriculum and deliver engaging instruction to beginner learners.
  • Confident communicators who enjoy teaching, mentoring, and breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-follow lessons.
  • Safety-focused professionals with experience leading outdoor skills training, workshops, classes, camps, or guided learning experiences.
  • Reliable instructors who can lead a 10-lesson program from planning through delivery.

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