Trip Leader

Camp Chewonki Trip Leaders are kind, empathetic, thoughtful, and fun adults who are responsible for caring for the health and well-being of a  group of campers for the duration of each trip. The Trip Leader position is an integral part of the Camp Chewonki culture. Trip Leaders are ultimately responsible for the safety of the participants and execution of all trip details. This includes preparing itinerary, evacuation, and resupply information; packing group gear and well balanced meals; ensuring the participants are prepared with correct gear and knowledge of trip; facilitating a positive learning environment; and teaching age appropriate technical, interpersonal, and natural history skills. Our backcountry trips focus on one or more of the following disciplines: canoeing, sea kayaking , whitewater kayaking and backpacking.

The Trip Leader must also be prepared to be an exemplary role model, establish group expectations and values, and have a commitment to working through all conditions with their participants, both environmentally and emotionally.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plan and prepare for assigned trips; this includes:

  • Finalize itinerary, potential resupply dates, and all other logistics

  • Pack food and gear appropriate for discipline and duration of trip

  • Familiarize self with potential evacuation locations and scenarios

  • Connect with participants prior to departure

• While leading assigned trips, effectively implement the following:

  • Hold the risk management and group management for the duration of the trip

  • Teach applicable technical and interpersonal skills

  • Professionally represent Chewonki while in the field 

  • Appropriately communicate with the trips office as planned and as needed

  • Hold responsibility for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of participants; this includes:

    • Develop healthy and appropriate relationships with participants

    • Manage risk and maintaining the safety of participants

    • Provide direct supervision of participants as assigned

• Develop a positive co-leader dynamic between other trip leaders and/or cabin leaders

• Support other trip programs when not in the field by assisting with equipment repair, food stocking, teaching watercraft lessons, driving, or other tasks as needed. 

• Be an active member of the Chewonki community

• Practice professional presentation and communication with participants and their families, co-workers, and the public

• Complete all necessary paperwork, i.e. incident reports, camper reports, trip reports, etc

• Instill joy and enthusiasm into the daily life of camp, both on campus and on trip

• Learn and uphold the Chewonki Foundation’s mission, DEI statement, and Chewonki protocols as stated in the Staff Handbook and Outdoor Programs Protocols.  

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At Least 21 years old*

• Current Wilderness First Responder Certification

• Pass Background Check

• Ability to lift up to 50 lb and work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions

• Ability to live and work in a small community

• The Chewonki Foundation requires that 100% of staff are vaccinated against COVID-19, as allowed for by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Proof of completed COVID-19 vaccination will be required upon acceptance of a job offer.  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid Driver’s License approved by Chewonki’s Insurance Carrier in order to drive Chewonki vehicles and participants

• Experience in the outdoor or experiential education field 

• Additional certifications or trainings in relevant field (Registered Maine Guide, American Canoe Association Instructor, Swiftwater Rescue, etc)

CLICK HERE to apply.