TrailWalker

TrailWalker (Field Staff) – Wilderness Program

Overview

As a TrailWalker, you will live and work in the backcountry for 8-day rotations, guiding and supporting a small group (band) of youth and young adults on “The Trail.”

You will play a critical role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and personal growth of those in our care while hiking through rugged Arizona terrain. TrailWalkers serve as mentors, role models, and steady support for individuals navigating challenges such as substance use, emotional and behavioral struggles, and family difficulties.

This is not just a job—it is an immersive, purpose-driven experience that challenges you physically, emotionally, and personally.

What You’ll Do

• Guide and support clients through daily wilderness living and personal growth experiences


• Ensure the physical safety and emotional well-being of all group members


• Hike up to 10 miles per day carrying a ~40 lb pack


• Teach and model:
  
  
  
  • Wilderness survival skills
  
  
  • Healthy communication and relationships
  
  
  • Personal responsibility and leadership
  
  
  
  


• Maintain communication with field leadership (RidgeWalker) multiple times daily


• Collaborate weekly with therapists regarding client progress


• Teach and apply ANASAZI curriculum and principles

Schedule & Lifestyle

• 8 days on the trail / 6 days off


• Live outdoors full-time during your rotation


• Work in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)


• Minimal technology—fully unplugged environment

Qualifications

• 21+ years old


• High school diploma or higher


• Ability to pass:
  
  
  
  • Drug screen
  
  
  • Background check & Arizona fingerprint clearance
  
  
  
  


• Physically able to:
  
  
  
  • Hike long distances daily
  
  
  • Carry a 40 lb pack in rugged terrain
  
  
  
  


• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills


• Dependable, punctual, and adaptable


• Willingness to grow personally and professionally


• Commitment of at least 6 months

Our Standard (What Makes This Different)

At ANASAZI, we believe who you are matters more than what you do.

We ask our staff to live by high personal standards because the youth we serve are deeply influenced by authenticity. We strive to model the same growth, accountability, and integrity we invite from them.

As part of this commitment, staff are expected to abstain from substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, and to maintain a lifestyle aligned with our values.

Training Process

Training includes three parts:

Part I – Backcountry Training (5–6 days)

• Learn the ANASAZI Way


• Wilderness skills, safety, and medical training


• Fully immersive field experience


• Unpaid (food and gear provided)

Part II – Office Training (2–3 days)

• Policies, procedures, and program structure


• Unpaid (housing/food not provided)

Part III – Field Week (Paid)

• Join a team on the trail with clients


• Apply everything you’ve learned in real-time

Hiring Process

1. Submit application


2. Initial call (typically within a few weeks of training)


3. Interview (virtual or in-person)


4. Invitation to training (or notice of non-selection)


5. Conditional employment after Part I & II


6. Final hiring decision after Part III

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting pay: $15.15/hour + overtime (OT)


• Average: ~$210+ per day (with overtime)


• Food provided while on the trail


• Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification


• Initial gear provided


• Potential insurance benefits after 6 months (if seasonal position transitions to regular full-time)


• Access to pro-deals (outdoor industry discounts)

Important Considerations

• Upfront costs (approx. $200) may include:
  
  
  
  • Physical exam
  
  
  • TB test
  
  
  • Immunizations
  
  
  • Fingerprint clearance
  
  
  
  


• Some medications are not permitted on the trail
  
  
  
  • Contact our nurse with any questions before applying
  
  
  
  

Why This Role Matters

Being a TrailWalker is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles you can step into.

You will:

• Build meaningful relationships


• Develop leadership and resilience


• Be part of life-changing experiences—for others and yourself

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking for something real, meaningful, and transformative, we invite you to apply and begin the journey.