Frequently Asked Questions
WA staff members have a combination of outdoor/wilderness skills as well as experience working with youth. Many of our staff members have worked in a camp setting or have led wilderness trips at their college or university. Each WA trip is a bit different, so the specific hard skills you need will vary on each program. Some trips require significant backcountry experience, knowledge and training, and others require less as they are more introductory in nature.. For technical skills (i.e. rock climbing, whitewater rafting, canyoneering, etc.), subcontractors join the group to lead these activities so expertise in these areas is not necessary.
Students face challenges and growth throughout their WA experience, but they also have a lot of fun! Being a WA trip leader requires energy, enthusiasm, and excitement to motivate students at all times. Flexibility, strong communication, decision-making skills, and a joyful outlook are all key attributes to being a successful WA trip leader!
Minimum Requirements for Trip Leader:
- Minimum of 21 years old by employment start date.
- Applicants must have and maintain an excellent driving record with no major infractions of unsafe conduct. You will be required to drive a 15-passenger van towing an 8-foot utility trailer if leading one of our domestic trips.
- A minimum certification in Wilderness First Responder by employment start date. (You can apply and then complete the certification before June or through our sponsored course).
- College graduate or in the process of completing a degree.
- Quality experience teaching/leading in a variety of settings, ideally with students in grades 5-12.
Minimum Requirements for WALI Trip Instructor:
- College graduate.
- Applicants must have and maintain an excellent driving record with no major infractions of unsafe conduct. You will be required to drive a 15-passenger van towing an 8-foot utility trailer if leading one of our domestic trips.
- A minimum certification in Wilderness First Responder by employment start date. (You can apply and then complete the certification before June or through our sponsored course). Advanced certifications are welcomed.
- Quality experience teaching/leading in a variety of settings, ideally with students in high school and older.
No. WA hires Trip Leaders throughout the winter and spring months. Once the entire trip leading staff has been hired, trip placement occurs. Trip Leaders will receive their trip placement (itinerary, pack list) as well as their co-leader information in the late-spring.
Placement on a Wilderness Adventures trip is based on age, experience, skills, and staffing needs. Considering an applicant’s application, references, resume, interview, and past experience, we place new staff on trips applicable to their skill sets and with co-leaders that will complement both their skills and personality. Most first-year staff members will co-lead with a returning staff member. This allows first-year staff members to have the chance to lead any of the trips we offer in any location, worldwide.
