Overview
The High Sierra Program Internship was created to increase access to career pathways in the outdoor industry, especially for those not historically represented in this line of work. This internship lays the foundations for a future as a High Sierra Alpine Backpacking Instructor or Logistics Coordinator. Interns have a hands-on introduction to the Outward Bound educational model through the programming lens of the organization.
Interns have two primary roles: Logistical Intern and Instructional Intern. 1-3 weeks will be spent in the world of the Logistics Coordinator, orchestrating the logistical needs to support courses. This will help set the foundation in understanding how our programs operate. Additionally, between 2-4 weeks of your time will be spent on our backpacking/rock climbing expeditions as you develop your Instructor skill set. The internship runs from May 5 through August 15.
What the Internship Offers:
Paid Training: This is a paid internship with a rate of $1,340/month (approx 22 work days/month).
Room and board: Food and housing is provided for the duration of the internship (May 5 through August 15)
Hands-On Technical Skill Development: You’ll gain technical backpacking & rock climbing skills, student support & facilitation skills, and a comprehensive understanding of running outdoor education programs through both a logistical and administrative capacity.
Gear Support: Interns will have full access to our gear library
Travel Support: We provide a $225 stipend to offset the travel cost
One-on-one Mentorship: Interns are paired with a program administrator who will support their career aspirations, assist with skill development, and professional development. Under the mentorship of our instructional staff, you will also gain direct experience facilitating programs with students.
Benefits: Pro deals, 401k after 1 year from your start date, Employee Assistance Program
Location
Our High Sierra base in Midpines, California, 30 miles east of Yosemite National Park. High summer temperatures can reach 80-100+ degrees Fahrenheit. The basecamp has a main building with an office, program gear sheds, a commercial kitchen, and weatherport living quarters (durable fabric structures). Trips generally take place in off-the-beaten-path locations within Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Sierra National Forest, and Yosemite National Park.
Qualifications:
Comfortable with camping & backpacking in mountain environments for extended periods of time
Required Skills:
First Aid & CPR/AED
Have had a valid US or Canadian driver’s license for at least three years
21 years of age or older
Preferred Skills:
Outward Bound or other multi-day program wilderness expeditionary experience
1-2 years prior experience in outdoor education programs or similar educational settings
Comfort navigating with map and compass on- and off-trail, through a variety of terrain and environmental conditions
About Outward Bound California
At Outward Bound California (OBCA), we use challenging outdoor experiences to teach social-emotional skills like teamwork, leadership, and compassion. We offer a wide range of programs, including high/low ropes activities at our San Francisco Challenge Course and multi-day rock climbing/backpacking trips in the High Sierra and Joshua Tree. Our programs encourage our participants (ages 12+, including adults and veterans) to embrace challenges and reflect on how they want to contribute to their communities and the world.
We are a part of the Outward Bound USA network with a 60-year history in the US as a leading provider of outdoor education. OBCA is a non-profit and is committed to increasing access for those who have traditionally been excluded from outdoor spaces. We work towards this goal with our 40 community partners and by offering scholarships to more than half of our students.
