Overview
Co-lead in the backcountry (with one other Trip Leader) a group of 6-10 campers on various backpacking, canoeing or biking trips that range from 3 to 8 days in length.
Manage the larger group in the front-country, including transporting campers in 15-passenger vans, purchasing and providing meals, planning trip logistics, prepping backcountry trips, communicating with Camp Directors.
All other aspects of trip management to ensure the physical and emotional safety of all campers.
Note: Due to insurance restrictions, Expedition Trip Leaders are usually 21+ years of age and must have a mostly clean driving record and the ability to drive a fifteen passenger van. Under 21 year olds are welcome to apply for our Trip Leader positions.
Qualifications:
-WFR certification or willingness to obtain (We certify WFR in late May)
-Previous wilderness experience as a leader or a participant including: meal and route planning and group skills.
-Minimal experience? Our in camp Trip Leader position may be a great fit for you.
-Desire to work and live with campers and act as a caregiver and trip leader.
-Fun, caring, and motivated with a desire to work and play in the outdoors.
Preferred Skills:
-Dependable -- more reliable than spontaneous
-People-oriented -- enjoys interacting with people and working on group projects
-Adaptable/flexible -- enjoys doing work that requires frequent shifts in direction
-Detail-oriented -- would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture
-Achievement-oriented -- enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail
-Innovative -- prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity
-High stress tolerance
About Camp Thunderbird
Camp Thunderbird consists of two brother/sister camps in beautiful Bemidji, Minnesota. We believe that camp is a great place to learn independence and decision-making, so we put kids in charge of their own daily schedule. Counselors provide guidance and encouragement for campers get the most out of the camp experience. This balance of structure and choice makes Thunderbird unique. Skills and interests developed at Thunderbird often last a lifetime. Staff are encouraged to make each activity their own, bringing their personality, creativity, and passion to every session. Beyond daily camp life, Thunderbird campers (and staff!) have the chance to join incredible trips—from rock climbing, biking, sailing, and whitewater rafting to visiting wolf and bear sanctuaries. Staff can even train to co-lead these adventures, something few camps offer. For those who stay and grow with us, the opportunity to lead expeditions across the U.S. and Canada.
