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Wilderness Instructor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Wilderness Instructor information

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$8

$19

$32

How much do wilderness instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness instructor in Tennessee is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.83 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 the most commonly searched types of Wilderness Instructor jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Wilderness Instructor jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

Wilderness Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Instructor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,028 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Climbing Instructor

CLIMB NASHVILLE LLC

Nashville, TN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Expectations

  • Maintain a thorough understanding of Climbs Mission - To be a catalyst for community through personal transformation - and how it applies to instruction

  • Instruct in an effort to enact Climbs Vision - Connect People + Movement

  • Show excellent dedication to customer service, organization, and risk management

  • Display high levels of responsibility, accountability, and reliability

  • Provide and receive constructive feedback in a professional manner

  • Display professionalism and a positive attitude when working with clients and staff

  • Maintain a thorough understanding of training philosophies specific for climbing technique, skill, and strength development

  • Keep relevant certifications and proficiencies up to date and current with support from Climb

  • Stay knowledgeable on all Climbs policies, procedures, and operations

  • Maintain a thorough, evolving knowledge of best practices and equipment in the industry so equipment can be appropriately managed and monitored

Responsibilities

  • Conduct lead and top rope climbing and belay lessons while displaying the utmost level of expertise, knowledge of best practices, and adherence to Climb policies

  • Provide climbing and belay test-outs to Climb customers with a strict adherence to Climbs policies and attention to customer service

  • Assume a leadership role in Climbs community. Work hard to be present, build connections between community members and the instruction department and community members

  • Use heightened levels of experience and climbing knowledge to provide high levels of instruction to clients of all ability levels

  • Be able to work with groups in the gym, including lead climbing clinics and certifications

  • Be self-motivated: Identify instructable moments and act upon them

  • Be able to lead clients through activities in a professional manner

  • Have a general understanding of training specific philosophies for climbing including, but not limited to

    • Skill Development (body positioning, tension, dynamic movement, footwork, etc)

    • Finger Strength & Contact Strength

    • Proper Warm-Up & Recovery

    • Endurance for Different Types of Climbing

    • Tactical Approach to Maximize Climbing Ability

  • Communicate with the General Manager regarding any program needs

  • Assist other gym departments with miscellaneous tasks including cleaning, helping customers at the front desk, retail, etc.

  • Maintain an intermediate to advanced level of fitness and climbing ability

  • Be able to coach youth team and/or other youth programs in the gym

  • Maintain familiarity with modern climbing equipment and its application with regards to a climbers individual needs

Desired Qualifications

  • AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor certification (SPI Certification preferred)

  • Wilderness First Aid certification (WFR certification preferred)

  • Performance Climbing Coach Certification (preferred)

  • USA climbing safesport certification

  • Experience working with youth and large groups

  • Experience offering climbing lessons/training to groups or individuals

  • Team building experience

Hours

  • Part time hours only

  • Ability to work weeknights and some weekends

Compensation/Benefits

  • Climb membership

  • Climb-provided equipment for use during scheduled hours

  • Opportunities for continuing education

Apply