California Expeditions Backpacking Specialist

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. This is a field position that runs Sundays through Fridays throughout the summer. 

Due to California regulations, in order to drive our 15-passenger vans, staff must either possess a CDL or non-CA based drivers license. Candidates who do not meet our age criteria or possess a CA driver's license will be considered for nearby Day Camp programs or one of our few hybrid Day Camp/Expedition positions.

In this role you will

• Provide 24-hour support with guidance, supervision, safety and comfort for participants during all activities.

• Co-lead an activity group of up to 13 campers; guide an overnight experience, ranging from an 1-night overnight onsite to a 5-day backpacking trip.

• Serve as a role model and guide campers by exhibiting appropriate behavior, attitudes, and activities.

• Follow and educate campers on safety protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants. 

• Provide exceptional customer service to parents and all participants in our programs.

• Transport up to 13 campers to and from program areas with company passenger vans

Job Requirements

• Must be at least 20 years of age and be eligible for a driver position by the start of training. Valid drivers' license is required.

• In order to qualify to driver position for our California camps, you must either possess a CDL or a non-California drivers license

• By the start of training, must have an active CPR and Wilderness First Responder (WFR, EMT, or W-EMT) certifications

• 1+ years of experience leading kids on multi-day camping or backpacking trips.

• Passion for outdoor expeditions! Must be comfortable with multi-day camping excursions and the 24-hour supervision expectations of this position. 

Important Details

• Work Schedule: Sunday morning - Friday afternoon.  Scheduled time off is Friday evening and all day Saturday.

• Position Duration: Training will take place in California (transportation to and from training will be provided!) May 13. Programs run June 15 and August 9

• Compensation: Pay is determined based on position, additional responsibilities, relevant certifications, and staff tenure. Starting hourly are below: 

  • Specialists: $984/week

  • Relevant Certification Bonuses: $100- $400 per certification (up to $1000) 

Our Interview Process

After you submit an application, here is what you can expect next: 

• Step 1: Complete a one-way video interview

• Step 2: 20-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 application.

Why Avid4 Adventure?

• We were again voted by Outside Magazine as one of the 50 Best Places to Work.

• We are the only summer camp in the world that is a Certified B Corp (Benefit Corporation).

• We truly live by our Core Values.

• We are committed to improving inclusion, diversity, justice, and equity both internally and in the outdoor industry as a whole. You can learn more about our JEDI commitments and progress here.

• Benefits - Access to affordable health insurance, access to free gear, discounted pro deals on gear, professional development, public transportation reimbursement to/from camp, and more!