So, you went on an Outward Bound course and it was amazing and transformative. So much so, that now you want to work with us?
At NCOBS, we are always on the look out for vibrant, diverse and accomplished educators to fill our ranks. If you have prior experience leading outdoor expeditions, we encourage you to head over to our Field Staff Page on our website to look over general requirements and available positions.
If you haven’t yet logged many hours in leadership, facilitation and outdoor technical skills we encourage to start gaining those skills by doing one, or all of the following!
Complete an Internship: Currently, Outward Bound schools across the country offer a variety of internship programs designed to provide a greater understanding of Outward Bound philosophy and operations as well as an opportunity to develop technical and group facilitation skills. Find out more about internships across the Outward Bound system.
For individuals interested in working with our at-risk programs, the process is a little different. Because these programs rely on strong student management skills, we ask individuals interested in working as at-risk instructors to participate in our at-risk apprenticeship and work one to three courses in the apprentice position before being considered for an Assistant Instructor position. Depending on the level of commitment and performance, apprenticeship may lead to a position as an assistant instructor or support staff. Find out what at-risk apprenticeships are available.
Become Support Staff: Other applicants may be considered to begin working for the school as support staff. These staff members coordinate and execute the behind-the-scenes logistical needs to support students and staff in the field. Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for a Support Staff position.
Take an Outdoor Educator Course: This 50-day course is often used as a feeder course for hiring NCOBS instructors. On course, students take part in hands-on learning and gain an understanding of the technical and facilitation skills needed for a career in outdoor education. Students also earn their Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification on this course, which is a minimum requirement for instructor work at any Outward Bound school. At the end of course, your instructors will provide a written performance evaluation which will help clarify appropriate next steps in your professional development. *NCOBS also offers scholarships for those who qualify, and full scholarships for people of color.
Get More Technical Skills: Whether you’re considering becoming a classic or at-risk course instructor, go outside! Explore wilderness areas to hone your navigation and outdoor living skills. Spend more time rock climbing and paddling to increase your technical competency. Take a Wilderness First Responder course to gain the medical certification required of most outdoor education programs. Spend a season leading wilderness trips for a summer camp to gain experience managing groups, teaching, and facilitating outdoor adventure experiences. There are a variety of pathways into this type of work and our staff come a wide range of backgrounds.
