Program Instructor

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.

POBS offers 2 paths for applicants interested in joining our work, based on your prior experience in the outdoor industry and youth program facilitation. The 12 week Apprenticeship is a job training program for those just beginning their career as an outdoor experiential educator. Those with prior experience are encouraged to apply for the Assistant Instructor (AI) position. Upon successful completion of the Apprenticeship, individuals transition into the Assistant Instructor role at the start of the following season. Both positions are on the pathway for promotion to Lead Instructor and receive training to varying capacities, dependent on experience.

TRAINING

• Classroom training in Outward Bound history and philosophy, student management, conflict resolution, safety and risk management, diversity and inclusion, curriculum development, and more
• Technical skills training: Backpacking, canoeing, top-rope rock climbing, high ropes, Aerial Teams Course.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Instruct participants in Insight programs: single day center-based team building programs with a high ropes element
• Instruct participants on Expeditions: multi-day backpacking and canoeing courses
• Logistics: Gear maintenance and repair, vehicle maintenance, driving students and gear, vehicle shuttles, base site projects

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS 

• Passion for working with youth
• Commitment to Outward Bound’s mission and values
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Commitment to equity, justice, inclusion, and anti-oppression
• Enthusiasm for serving participants with a diversity of identities, backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences
• Ability and willingness to deliver and receive feedback
• Ability to respond creatively, flexibly, and compassionately to the needs of our participants

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 

• Apprenticeship: $1500/month stipend
• Assistant Instructor compensation is per diem: starting rate is $116 or $125/day (dependent on applicable external experience); pay increases on a set scale based on number of days worked and logging of technical skills)
• Optional staff housing is available at no cost during the apprenticeship. All other instructor levels pay $125/month for a bunk room
• Philadelphia Outward Bound School curriculum, facilitation, and technical skills training
• In-house and external professional development opportunities
• Pro-deals on outdoor gear