Overview
MOUNTAINEERING STAFF are seasonal, full-time, non-cabin staff members who instruct adventure trips for our campers. This staff member should be skilled in (or passionate about) one or more of the following: backpacking, outdoor living or “survival” skills, rock climbing, caving, and challenge course facilitation/management. Mountaineering instructors facilitate trips ranging from 1/2 Day to 5 days, on Merrie-Woode’s campus as well as all over the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina.
This position is a great entry point for anyone interested in working as an outdoor educator or instructor. There are opportunities to gain experience with teaching, group management, and especially development of technical outdoor skills.
For interested applicants with notable outdoor/instruction experience, or previous experience with rations, trip prep, or gear repair, leadership opportunities and competitive pay are available.
Mountaineering Staff live in staff-only housing, and have 1-2 days off per week.
JOB DUTIES: Essential duties include but are not limited to the following
Instruction:
– Actively lead/assist with all Mountaineering programs, including: hiking/backpacking, rock climbing and caving
– Instruct on trips of 1/2-5 days in length, with participants ages 7-17
– Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers within scheduled activities.
Trip Planning/Clean Up:
– Plan trips, including choosing location, organizing lessons and itinerary, & food and gear selection
– After the completion of trips lead/participate in any relevant clean-up
Risk Management:
– Be aware of and implement safety guidelines and risk management.
– Assist with any instances off campus requiring the application of first aid
General:
– Act as a positive role model to campers and staff in attitude and behavior.
– Lead camp initiatives related to the environment and nature, specifically around the implementation of Leave No Trace principles.
– Participate actively and enthusiastically to positively promote all camp activities.
DATES for SUMMER 2025:
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (Optional): May 16 – 19
Boating/Mountaineering Orientation: May 20 – 25
All Staff Orientation: May 26 – 31
June Session: June 1 – 21
Main Session: June 23 – July 27
August Session: July 29 – August 8
BENEFITS:
– $300/wk starting pay, negotiable up to $700/wk dependent on experience
– Housing, meals, and laundry provided for all staff
– Reimbursement opportunities for any related certifications
PERKS:
– Access to industry Pro Deals
– Availability of gear during time off
– Technical skill growth opportunities available
Qualifications:
- Wilderness First Aid Certification or higher (Or the willingness to obtain)
- 18 years or older (21+ preferred)
Required Skills:
- Experience with (or passion for) at least one (1) of the following: hiking/backpacking, rock climbing, outdoor living skills, caving, or rope/challenge courses
- Excellent team member and effective communicator
- Capacity and desire to work with children
- Physical ability to work outside all day, maintain long periods standing and walking, and to lift up to 50 lbs
- Organizational skill and flexibility
- Must be available for Staff Orientation
Preferred Skills:
- Competence in multiple areas of programming
- Previous work experience with children, especially with instructing, guiding, or teaching
- Knowledge of gear repair & organization
- Experience with trip pack-outs/prep
- Experience with leading groups or public speaking
About Camp Merrie-Woode
Founded in 1919, Camp Merrie-Woode is a residential all-girls summer camp located in Sapphire,
North Carolina. CMW’s Adventure Programs teach campers real outdoor skills and give them access to
amazing opportunities for whitewater and flatwater boating, rock climbing, backpacking, caving, ropes
courses, and more!
