California Expeditions Backpacking Program Guide
Does the outdoors call to you? Do you feel a genuine connection to nature and can’t wait to inspire youth to find their own love for the outdoors? As a Backpacking Specialist with our Expeditions Program, you will do exactly that by guiding kids on multi-day backpacking adventures. You will spend the majority of your summer leading a group of campers to different campsites each night all while teaching campers teamwork, Leave No Trace principles, and how to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors.
California Expeditions: Need housing? Talk to your TA Specialist about local housing options and Avid support available.
Important Details
Work Schedule: Sunday 7 am - Friday 6 pm. Scheduled time off is Friday evening and all day Saturday.
Position Duration: Training takes place in Colorado May 16- June 5, position depending. Transportation and lodgings for training provided! Programs run June 14 - July 31
Compensation: Pay is determined based on position, additional responsibilities, relevant certifications, and staff tenure. Starting Rate: $984/week
$350 BONUS for Wilderness First Responder/EMT Certification at end of season
$100-$400 additional certification bonuses available!
Due to California regulations, in order to drive our 15-passenger vans, staff must either possess a CDL or non-CA based drivers license. California candidates who do not meet our age criteria or possess a CA driver's license will be considered for our Colorado Expeditions Program, Logistics Support roles, nearby Day Camp programs.
Job Duties
Guide a 5-night overnight experience, from Sunday to Friday weekly. Provide 24-hour support with guidance, supervision, safety and comfort for participants during all activities.
Throughout the Summer, will also co-lead other daily outdoor programming including: backpacking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, SUPing and Leave No Trace principles.
Safety is key!! You will be responsible for risk management and teaching our campers how to recreate safely
You are a role model for our campers; you will demonstrate and guide campers in appropriate behavior, attitudes, and activities
Provide exceptional customer service to our campers, parents, and Avid families
Your Background
Must be at least 20 years of age, 3-year valid driver’s license, and have a clean driving record
1+ years of experience leading multi-day camping or backpacking trips
Experience working at a youth overnight, expedition, or day camp strongly preferred
Passion for outdoor expeditions! Must be comfortable with multi-day camping excursions and the 24-hour supervision expectations of this position
By start of training, must have an active CPR certification + Wilderness First Responder/EMT Certification
Specialized certifications eligible for end-of-season bonuses! $100 - $400 per certification
Our Interview Process
After you submit an application, here is what you can expect next:
Step 1: We review your application for qualifications
Step 2: Invitation to complete a one-way video interview
Step 3: 40-minute live virtual interview and submit three references (personal and/or professional)
Final decision!!
This process moves quickly so be ready to hear from us shortly after you submit your