Seasonal Instructor

3 Season Per-Diem Employment: March 9, 2026-November  20, 2026

Per-Diem Compensation Starting Rates:

  • Training Rate $100 per diem
  • Assistant Instructor $ 125 per diem
  • Assistant Facilitator $ 120 per diem
  • On-Base Logistics $ 96 per diem
  • In-Field Logistics $ 116 per diem

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 9 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. All programs are designed to inspire participants to realize their true potential.

Philadelphia Outward Bound School is seeking Seasonal Instructors to support expeditions, challenge course programs, and logistics. Instructors work a varied schedule that may include co-leading wilderness expeditions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, facilitating challenge course experiences for youth and adults at our Philadelphia locations, and supporting expedition logistics. Seasonal Instructors receive comprehensive training that includes classroom sessions on Outward Bound history and philosophy, student management, conflict resolution, safety and risk management, diversity and inclusion, curriculum development, and more. Staff also receive technical training in backpacking, canoeing, top-rope and indoor rock climbing, and challenge course facilitation.

Instructor Essential Eligibility

  • Must be 21 years or older.
  • Must procure and pass an FBI Criminal Records Check.
  • Must obtain Criminal and Child Abuse clearances for Pennsylvania.
  • Able to comfortably work at heights of 30-40 feet.
  • Able to carry a weighted backpack up to 14 days
  • Ability to work irregular hours as necessary including the ability to work Saturday day programs.
  • Ability to work in remote outdoor settings for extended periods.
  • 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 (upon successful completion of POBS driver training and assessment)

Qualifications

  • Minimum 21 years old 
  • Experience working with youth or adults in educational, leadership, or outdoor settings.
  • Strong communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in at least one outdoor skill area (backpacking, climbing, canoeing, challenge course etc.).
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in experiential education.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and development through feedback and application of the experiential learning cycle.

Expedition Instructor Responsibilities

  • Plan and co-lead multiday wilderness backpacking, rock climbing and/or canoeing expeditions (5 – 14 days in length)
  • Assist with course preparation & debriefing – including backpacking & canoeing equipment preparation, cleaning & repair; food packing; vehicle and trailer loading; and participant transportation
  • Facilitate group discussions, reflection activities, and lessons that promote Outward Bound values such as compassion, integrity, excellence, and inclusion.
  • Teach technical outdoor skills appropriate to the course type (e.g. trail & river navigation, camp craft, belaying, paddling strokes, knot tying, food storage).
  • Manage the physical, emotional and mental safety and wellbeing of a student group (6-12 participants) 24 hours/day throughout the expedition

Challenge Course Facilitator Responsibilities

  • Challenge Course Facilitators are responsible for facilitating and monitoring their groups’ day program activities including ground games, team initiatives and high ropes course activities.
  • Collaborate with other facilitators and Program Coordinators to plan, facilitate and debrief with participants to meet group goals.
  • Promote self-confidence, positive group dynamics, and problem-solving abilities amongst group members through thoughtful progression planning.
  • Set up technical challenge course elements and oversee participant safety and emotional well-being while up on the challenge course.

Logistics Responsibilities

  • Provide in-field support including shuttling vehicles, resupplying crews halfway through expedition, supporting crews in rock climbing, and responding to the needs of the expeditions in the field (includes multi-day base camping)
  • Support instructors during expedition prep, gear issue, cleanup, and de-issuing
  • Maintain outdoor equipment, including repair, laundry, and inventory
  • Transport crews and individual students into and out of the field along with urban transportation (I.e. School, train station and airport pick-ups and drop-offs).

Certifications

  • Current Wilderness First Responder or willing to complete certification prior to Lead Instructor promotion

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Optional staff housing for 4 instructional seasons: $125/month for a bunk room
  • In-house and external professional development opportunities
  • Pro-deals on outdoor gear

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

APPLY ONLINE by January 9, 2026

 

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.