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: Relocation bonus available for qualifying staff! 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 18 - 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