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Wilderness Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

SOLO Instructor

Bryson City, NC · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as ... Instructors are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures, leading, and moderating ...

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How much do wilderness instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Wilderness Instructor job?

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 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.

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

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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Wilderness Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Wilderness Instructor jobs are:
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Wilderness Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

2026 Field Instructor (Backpacking Ministry)

Seeds Wilderness Therapy

Montrose, CO • On-site

$164/day

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Seeds Wilderness Way (Seeds) works with families with troubled teens. We take teens on an intensive 40-day backpacking experience. The process includes our model: Retreat, Restore, Revive. Seeds is distinctly Christian and as such combines the best practices in wilderness and therapy with the teachings of Jesus and solid discipleship.
Field Instructors are the hands and feet of Seeds; they are the ones serving Christ to each teenager! Field Instructors are responsible for the individual care of each student in the wilderness. The Field Instructor is to love and serve the student, and help them find their potential in Christ. Each instructor will disciple 2-3 students, watching their therapeutic, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Field Instructors will teach and role model both hard skills (backpacking, cooking, fire, safety) as well as soft skills (mental and emotional health, spirituality, understanding of the client's complaining 'issues'), as delegated by the Field Director or Therapist. Changes in cognitive, affective, and behavioral growth will be individually coached and reported to the Field Director. Field staff work with the Therapist to help formulate, implement, and measure therapeutic/spiritual directives. The field staff report to the Field Director, who will balance logistical and therapeutic intents. Field staff are also expected to participate in Seeds' Aftercare discipleship program by 1) mentoring 2-3 students once a week via zoom for three months after graduation (This can be done from your home, and not in Colorado.) and 2) by visiting the family in their home six months after graduation. Field staff will be invited to participate in other trips and experiences in the 3 year aftercare program as available.
Qualifications for all Field Instructors
  • Must be at least 21 years old, and 3 years older than the oldest student
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and problem solving skills. Willingness to receive and give feedback to your staff team.
  • Willingness to follow all Policies and Procedures as stated in staff manual
  • Able to complete shift work of 8 days on: 6 days off (8:6 rotation).
  • Clear background check by state and federal authorities
  • Must be sober from any substance abuse, or any dangerous/harmful activities to yourself or others. (If past addiction is present, documented sobriety for 3 years.)
  • Basic first aid and CPR
  • Able to carry a 75 pound pack over steep, rocky, and uneven ground
  • Provide 3 references (name, phone number, email address)
  • Must hold a valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.
  • Previous wilderness experience or experience working with troubled teens is beneficial, but not required

Location
MONTROSE, CO
Department
Field Staff
Employment Type
Seasonal (Full-time May - August), shoulder season work potentially also available.
Minimum Experience
Past experience in at least one of the following:
1) hard skills for backcountry living and travel (outdoor leadership, risk management, first aid/WFR, navigation, ect.),
2) soft skills such as counseling and discipleship (previous mental health service, ministry, or mentorship experience, etc.), or
3) life transformation through following Jesus in your own story.
Compensation
Starting rates 164 (Top Instructors can be promoted to $322) per field day

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