Outward Bound Canada Instructors

Help young people build confidence, resilience and connection through outdoor adventure.

Outward Bound Canada (OBC) welcomes instructors from a wide range of backgrounds, including outdoor education, university programs and other career paths. We value teaching ability, group facilitation, lived experience, sound judgement and compassion alongside technical outdoor skills.

The Role

Instructors lead safe, inclusive outdoor learning experiences for youth. Responsibilities include teaching outdoor skills, supporting group dynamics and participant well-being, managing risk, and completing program preparation, equipment care, documentation and wrap-up.

Opportunities vary by region and may include urban, base-based, wilderness and overnight programs. Assignments depend on program needs, your availability and qualifications. Work may involve weekends, extended time outdoors, variable weather and responsibility for participants during overnight programs.

What You’ll Need

- Legal eligibility to work in Canada.
- A satisfactory criminal record and vulnerable sector check appropriate to the role.
- Current first aid and CPR certification for your program area, including an 80-hour Wilderness First Responder certification where required.
- Strong communication, facilitation and group management skills.
- A commitment to participant safety, inclusive learning and working respectfully with youth from diverse backgrounds.

Additional technical qualifications depend on the activities and location. Tell us about your transferable skills and experience, even if your background does not follow a traditional outdoor education path.

What We Offer

Meaningful work Support youth through challenges,



reflection and new experiences that can have a lasting impact.

Pay and flexible opportunities Pay reflects the role, program location, relevant experience and qualifications. Hourly or daily rates and assignment details are confirmed before work begins. Availability and schedules vary by region and program.

Well-being support Employees have access to OBC’s Employee Assistance Program. Any extra benefits depend on the position and eligibility and will be outlined in your offer.

Training and development Build your skills through mentorship, feedback, regional training and opportunities to learn alongside experienced outdoor educators.

Field support Instructors have access to program and emergency support, activity-appropriate communication equipment, and participant information to support planning and risk management.

How to Apply

Complete the application questions and upload your résumé and trip log as one PDF. The questions will ask about your:

- Preferred regions, program interests and availability.
- Relevant certifications and expiry dates.
- Experience teaching, facilitating groups or working with youth.
- Outdoor experience and the perspectives you would bring to the role.

Your trip log helps us understand your experience; you do not need an extensive expedition history to tell us what you can contribute.

We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities and perspectives. Please let us know if you need an accommodation during the hiring process.

For more information, visit OBC’s Careers page and the Instructor Recruitment Guide.

Questions? Contact [email protected].

Apply using the application button on this page.

📌 OBC Instructor (Canada)
🏢 Outward Bound Canada
📍 Canada