Backpacking Trip Leader

Job Title: Wilderness Leader

Employment Dates: May 23, 2024 - August 10, 2024

Every program in the Wilderness Department is designed both to create stronger, well-bonded groups and to foster a respect, appreciation and stewardship of nature. Wilderness leaders rotate during the summer through a combination of the four roles, outlined below.

Backpacking Trip Leader Job Responsibilities

• Solo lead groups of 12 campers and 2 counselors on 1-2 night backpacking trips in the Yosemite area and surrounding wilderness areas. You are the primary leader on these trips.
• Get camper medical info, meds, and diet/allergy info. Stock and carry a first aid kit.
• Transportation: Know departure and pick-up times and route, drive safely.
• Maintain safety throughout trips.
• Provide fun, experiential and educational outdoor programming.
• Challenge Course Leader
  • Lead each bunk through a full day of initiatives, low and high elements on the Camp Tawonga Challenge Course.
  • Set up and take down the course daily and maintain equipment to ensure safety.
  • Meet with counselors to review the goals of the day, their role, and belay skills.
  • Facilitate sharing, listening, safe risk-taking, reflection and fun.
  • Check in with your co-facilitator(s) each day. 

Qualifications

• Must be 21 or older
• Must have current certifications:
  • Lifeguard Certification (LGT) 
  • Wilderness First Responder Certification (WFR)
  • ServSafe Certification
  • A safe driving record 
  • Experience with children and prior experience backpacking are essential. 
  • Experience with rock climbing and belaying, natural history, environmental education, and Judaic knowledge are helpful.
  • Be able to lift 50 lbs

* If you do not possess these certifications Tawonga may help cover the costs of obtaining them. 

Day in the Life (Backpacking)

• 6:00AM – Wake up early to mountains and rivers in the backcountry; pack personal backpack and get water boiling.
• 6:45AM – Wake up bunk and help them get packed up.
• 7:30AM – Yummy backcountry breakfast as the sun hits your breakfast spot.
• 9:00AM – Stretch and get hiking! Hike through the Yosemite wilderness.
• 12:00PM – Lunch at the trailhead, meet your driver and load those packs!
• 2:30PM – Back at camp, unload and take a break.
• 4:00PM – Greet your next bunk and help them get prepared for backpacking.
• 6:00PM – Dinner at Camp, prep for your backpack trip and get a good night's rest!

Tawonga requires staff to be up to date on vaccinations and staff may be required to participate in COVID-19 testing and health screening.