FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What positions do you hire for?

We hire for a range of positions. Our remote admin roles open as needed. Our seasonal program roles open annually in October. This includes our San Francisco Challenge Course Apprenticeship and Instructor roles. At our Midpines basecamp (located outside of Yosemite), we hire annually for our Program Interns, Alpine Backpack Instructors, and Logistics Coordinators. We also sometimes hire a Program Manager or Associate Logistics Manager.

What do I need to include in my application?

All applications require a resume. A cover letter is optional for most of our outdoor positions (and required for our administrative positions). You can expect some short answer questions on each application. Please check each application for the specifics.

A Technical Experience Log is required for all High Sierra Instructor and Intern applications.

An ACCT Portfolio is required for all Challenge Course Lead Instructor & Site Manager applications.

What is does the hiring timeline look like?

BAY AREA

Hiring Season: Applications open in mid-October and close mid November to early December. See each job for specifics.

Training Begins: mid/late January

HIGH SIERRA

Hiring Season: Applications open in mid-October and close Jan 1st - Jan 15. See each job for specific timeline.

Training Begins: first week of May

*Occasionally we will hire staff and offer training in other seasons as needed. Applications are accepted only for open positions.

Does OBCA consider international applicants?

Most years we have a very limited number of J-1 visas for our Alpine Backpacking Instructor position. Unfortunately, we cannot consider international applicants for other positions as they do not meet the J-1 visa requirements.

I can't make the start date. Can I still apply?

For our Alpine Backpack, Logistics Coordinator, and Internship positions, the start date unfortunately is not very flexible. Our season begins with our required training, which takes place in the backcountry. Our training season is a critical part of preparing our staff to deliver high quality and transformative programs for our students. It also plays an important role in connection & community at our basecamp. As a result, if an applicant is unable to make it to training, they are not properly set up for success. 

What do you look for in an instructor application? How do I become qualified?

 While there are many different skills and experiences that make our staff qualified, we've put together a document that generalizes what we look for and how to obtain those qualifications.

I'm having trouble accessing the application and/or have more questions!

Please email [email protected] with questions regarding the application or the hiring process.

 Outward Bound California is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Outward Bound California also promotes respect for all people, and will not tolerate harassment based on any of these characteristics.