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Wilderness Survival Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

SOLO Instructor

Bryson City, NC · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

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 ...

Prevailance

Junior SERE / ECAC Instructor

TX · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Prevailance is seeking a Junior SERE / ECAC Instructor to deliver advanced Survival, Evasion ... First Aid / CPR or Wilderness First Responder certification * Familiarity with USAF SERE program ...

Prevailance, Inc.

Prevailance is seeking a Junior SERE / ECAC Instructor to deliver advanced Survival, Evasion ... First Aid / CPR or Wilderness First Responder certification * Familiarity with USAF SERE program ...

Prevailance, Inc.

Prevailance is seeking a Senior SERE / ECAC Instructor to deliver advanced Survival, Evasion ... First Aid / CPR or Wilderness First Responder certification * Familiarity with USAF SERE program ...

Prevailance

Senior SERE / ECAC Instructor

TX · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Prevailance is seeking a Senior SERE / ECAC Instructor to deliver advanced Survival, Evasion ... First Aid / CPR or Wilderness First Responder certification * Familiarity with USAF SERE program ...

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Wilderness Survival Instructor information

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How much do wilderness survival instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for wilderness survival instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wilderness Survival Instructor vs Outdoor Education Instructor?

AspectWilderness Survival InstructorOutdoor Education Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, survival skills certificationsCPR, outdoor leadership certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote wilderness, survival scenariosCampgrounds, outdoor classrooms
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, survival schoolsSchools, youth camps, outdoor programs

Wilderness Survival Instructors focus on teaching survival skills in remote environments, often requiring specialized certifications. Outdoor Education Instructors provide broader outdoor learning experiences, including environmental education and safety. While both roles involve outdoor settings, Wilderness Survival Instructors emphasize survival techniques, whereas Outdoor Education Instructors focus on educational activities in outdoor environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wilderness survival instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wilderness Survival Instructor, you need expertise in outdoor skills such as shelter building, fire making, navigation, first aid, and often a background in environmental science or outdoor education. Familiarity with GPS devices, wilderness first responder (WFR) certification, and knowledge of survival gear are crucial for teaching and ensuring safety. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help instructors guide diverse groups and manage unexpected challenges. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively teach survival techniques and ensure participant safety in unpredictable outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges wilderness survival instructors face when leading courses in remote locations?

Wilderness Survival Instructors often encounter unpredictable weather, varying group skill levels, and the need to manage safety in remote environments. Adapting lesson plans on the fly and keeping participants engaged while ensuring their well-being are key challenges. Instructors must also be prepared for medical emergencies and possess strong leadership and communication skills to foster teamwork in challenging conditions. Collaborating effectively with co-instructors and local guides is essential for a safe and rewarding experience.

What does a wilderness survival instructor do?

A Wilderness Survival Instructor teaches individuals or groups essential survival skills needed in remote or wild environments. This includes techniques like building shelters, starting fires without matches, finding and purifying water, identifying edible plants, and basic first aid. Instructors also emphasize safety, navigation, and how to respond to emergencies. Their goal is to prepare students to handle unexpected situations and confidently spend time in nature.
More about Wilderness Survival Instructor jobs
What job categories do people searching Wilderness Survival Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wilderness Survival Instructor jobs are:
Wilderness Survival Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Survival Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Wilderness Medicine Instructor (SOLO Program)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bryson City, NC • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 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.