SUMMARY
Outward Bound is an international educational movement dedicated to the belief that people are capable of far more than they know. Founded in 1992, Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS)’s mission is to change lives through challenge and discovery. POBS – serving PA, NJ, and northern DE – is one of 10 regional Outward Bound USA schools. A robust, non-profit educational organization, POBS annually engages more than 7,000 youth and adult participants in single and multi-day experiential education programs that inspire character development, leadership, and community service.
Philadelphia Outward Bound is seeking Challenge Course Facilitators for POBS’ day-long team-building programs. Challenge Course Facilitators will instruct in a variety of sites including POBS’ Wissahickon Valley Challenge Course, The Discovery Center, or offsite at local schools and organizations. Challenge Course Facilitators will design progressions and program plans which include ground games and initiatives as well as high adventure challenge course elements.
REQUIREMENTS
- ACCT Level 1 facilitator certification or equivalent (minimum of 40 hours of challenge course experience).
- Experience working with children.
- Familiarity with the concepts of Challenge By Choice and group dynamics.
- Experience leading cooperative games and challenge course elements.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Must attend mandatory program prep (paid at per diem rate) and participate in ongoing staff development workshops and training (paid at training rate).
- Availability from March 10 – November 20, 2025
ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY
- Must procure and pass an FBI Criminal Records Check.
- Must obtain Criminal and Child Abuse clearances for Pennsylvania.
- Must be 21 years or older.
- Ability to carry, lift, and move a 40 lb ladder.
- Able to comfortably work at heights of 30-40 feet.
- Irregular work hours as necessary including the ability to work Saturday programs.
CERTIFICATIONS
- First Aid/CPR/AED (or higher) certification required or this can be completed upon hire.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- 21 years or older
- Procure and pass Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History, Child Abuse Clearance, FBI Background Check
- Able to be on feet most days, occasionally for up to 16 hours
- Valid driver’s license for a minimum of 3 years and a willingness/ability to drive large vans/trailers (we provide driver training)
- Able to carry, lift, and move a minimum of 50 pounds.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Mandatory Training, $80 per day.
- Starting rate for full-day programs is $116 or $125 per day. Rate determined by prior challenge course experience.
- Pro-deals for outdoor gear
and have the following documents ready to upload:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Challenge Course Portfolio documenting challenge course hours
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The Philadelphia Outward Bound School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.