Camp Wojtyla Backpacking Instructor Details

Overview

Camp Wojtyla Backpacking instructors will serve on a team of experienced and qualified individuals to help lead young people through transformative experiences in the wilderness.

Job Description

Instructors can expect to be on a small and independent team of leaders who will spearhead the outdoor opportunities with Camp Wojtyla’s Outpost Program as well as take groups of inexperienced campers on 9-day backpacking trips in the Rocky Mountains.

These programs embrace wilderness living, as they are removed from the resources of our basecamp property. At their core, both the Outpost and Backpacking programs are steeped in faith-based growth and activities for campers. Instructors should be willing to model and lead technical backcountry/camping skills, practice superior risk management, as well as lead activities and discussions on the spiritual life (to be covered in training). The safety of staff and campers is a key element of these trips, and is the responsibility of each instructor. After a three week training period, instructors will lead campers at the Outpost Program in a variety of activities, including rock climbing and a summit attempt.  Then they will lead two 9-day backpacking trips in the Rocky Mountains. Backpacking instructors will report to the Backpacking Coordinator. Individuals in this position can expect long days and hard work; this investment is typically accompanied by an extremely rewarding summer filled with continued learning and growth, of the instructor. Food and living accommodations are included.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Experience leading multi-day backpacking trips

  • Great physical fitness (no limiting conditions)

  • Practicing Catholic

  • Desire to serve the Church and work with young people

  • Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Certification*

  • Minimum age: 19 (and at least one year out of high school)

Preferred Candidates

  • Experience serving with Camp Wojtyla or another outdoor or faith-based ministry/organization

  • Knowledge of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem and alpine travel

  • Excellent navigation skills

  • Multiple backcountry trip experiences of 6+ days

  • Open to work for multiple summers

DATES AND COMPENSATION

  • Summer Commitment: May 19 - August 4, 2025

  • Optional training: WFR* ( 6-10 days in the spring) this training to be discussed in interview

  • Compensation will be determined based on experience and certifications; instructors can expect $1500-$2000 for the summer. Despite the compensation, this is still considered a servant leadership position. Compensation is provided because CW recognizes that many of the experiences, certifications, and skills required for this position are obtained through an investment of time and money of the candidate. Candidates may also fundraise up to $8000.00 in order to supplement their stipend. (Click here for further details on the fundraising process.)

 

*Note on WFR certification: If you are interested but do not have the certification, discuss options with CW staff during application process.

 

To Apply

Submit the full Camp Wojtyla counselor application online (we will begin accepting applications for the 2025 summer on October 22, 2024) - click here for the link to the applications. Email proof of WFR certification (or date of intended certification) and a trip log with your outdoor experiences (see example below) to Meghan at mhadley@camp-w.com. Upon completion of your application, you will receive an email link to send to three references as well as further instructions regarding the online interview process. When submitting your references, please include one reference from an outdoor professional if you are able. Feel free to email with questions on application, position, or qualification requirements.

Example Trip Log