Backpacking Counselor

Position:

Backpacking Counselor Reports to:

Explorers Program Manager FLSA Status:

Seasonal, Exempt Salary:

$1,120 - $1,200 weekly depending on experience

Updated:

March 2026

Training Dates:

6/22/2026 - 6/26/26

Camp Dates :

6/29/2026-7/31/2026

SUMMARY:

The Backpacking Counselor will help facilitate leadership and outdoor experiences in the Lake Tahoe basin with a group of ten 5th to 7th grade youth. This position is responsible for leading five weekly backpacking trips over the five weeks of camp. The trips will slowly increase in length from 2 days/1 night, 3 days/2 nights to a 4 days/3 night excursion on the final week. The Backpacking Counselor will guide campers through safe and fun backpacking adventures and teach the principles of Leave No Trace, basic outdoor and First Aid skills, cooking outdoors, identification of safe water and how to purify water, gear care and repair, map & compass navigation, leadership and teambuilding, and much more! This position connects youth to the outdoors, provides real life skills to help empower and educate them in healthy choices, and creates opportunities for development of social emotional and problem-solving skills.

MINIMAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid (training paid by employer if necessary recert)
• Epipen Autoinjector Certified
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is a plus
• 21+ years
• Advanced backpacking and outdoor experience in the backcountry
• Ability to handle difficult terrain, weather changes, and unexpected challenges
• Prior camp counseling, teaching, mentoring, or coaching experience
• Ability to manage group dynamics and keep morale high
• Conflict resolution and group management abilities
• Confident leading groups in unfamiliar environments while teaching outdoor skills
• Experience Planning multi‑day itineraries with realistic mileage and elevation & Coordinating trip logistics (food, gear, water sources, and resupply needs)
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally competent service delivery methods preferred.
• Supportive of a culturally diverse environment and staff, and 3+ years of experience working with children, youth and families from diverse backgrounds in outdoor education
• Serve as a positive role model for campers.
• Ability and willingness to take initiative, responsibility and work independently to accomplish goals and objectives as set forth by the Camp Manager
• Ability to hike short distances, lift/carry up to 40 lbs, and participate in active outdoor programming
• Prepare for and actively participate in staff training, meetings, projects, and evaluation
• Successful completion of State of Nevada and FBI background checks and Child Abuse Prevention Training Backpacking Counselor - Duties and Responsibilities Programming Duties Camper Experience and Engagement Lead daily backpacking activities, lessons, and group discussions.

Teach outdoor skills including navigation, campcraft, Leave No Trace practices, and backcountry cooking. Facilitate team‑building activities, group games, and evening programs. Support campers' emotional and social needs using trauma‑informed and culturally responsive approaches. Safety and Risk Management Monitor group well‑being, hydration, pacing, and morale. Respond to injuries or issues using first aid training and established protocols. Maintain safe group travel practices and manage hazards on trail. Make real‑time decisions regarding route adjustments, weather conditions, and group needs. Monitor campers for signs of physical distress or illness (e.g., dehydration, sunburn, insect bites, fatigue) and report concerns immediately to the Camp Manager. Youth Development and Behavior Support Model positive behavior, communication, and leadership. Manage group dynamics and resolve conflicts constructively. Encourage participation while recognizing physical or emotional limitations and providing appropriate alternatives. Create an inclusive, supportive environment for campers of all backgrounds. Provide mentorship and promote personal growth and confidence. Camp Life and Logistics Lead campsite setup, cooking, and cleanup. Manage group gear and ensure proper use and care. Maintain cleanliness, safe food storage, bear awareness and environmental stewardship. Trip Planning Duties Itinerary and Route Planning Plan multi‑day routes with appropriate mileage, elevation, and difficulty based on camper ability and comfort. Identify campsites, water sources, bailout routes, and emergency access points. Prepare alternative plans for weather, trail closures, or group needs. Gear and Equipment Preparation Check, organize, and pack group gear including tents, stoves, and first aid kits. Ensure campers have appropriate personal gear and assist with outfitting. Coordinate gear repairs or replacements as needed. Food and Supply Logistics Develop meal plans and pack food for multi‑day trips. Organize safe food storage systems. Plan resupply strategies when necessary. Administrative and Safety Preparation Review permits, regulations, and land‑use requirements. Complete risk assessments and emergency action plans. Communicate itinerary and safety protocols with the Camp Manager. Prepare camper medical information, emergency contacts, and group rosters. Transportation Coordination Assist with arranging drop‑off and pick‑up logistics. Load and unload vehicles with gear and supplies. Additional Trip Planning Responsibilities Maintain and organize storage of camp equipment and supplies; notify the Camp Manager of equipment needs or replacements. Maintain thorough knowledge of assigned hiking routes and communicate plans, timing, and route details to Camp Manager prior to departure. Maintain regular communication with the Camp Manager via satellite phone while in the backcountry. Make independent decisions regarding the intensity and pacing of the backcountry experience based on distance, elevation gain, camper ability, and group readiness. Modify activities for campers with additional needs to support full participation. Maintain situational awareness of the location, activity, and safety of each camper in the group. Help youth develop outdoor skills that support leadership development and confidence. Monitor weather and emergency situations with the team; follow established emergency and evacuation procedures. Maintain safety and health protocols to ensure a safe camp environment and backcountry experience. Safety and Record Keeping Keep accurate records and reports regarding unusual activities, injuries, illness, or conflict, and share them with the Camp Manager. Maintain confidentiality of staff and camper health and personal information. Understand and follow child abuse reporting guidelines; ensure that corporal punishment or any inappropriate exertion of power is never used. To apply or for more information, please contact sarahs@tahoefamily.org 775-413-5145 Tahoe Family Solutions 774 Mays Blvd #13,

Incline Village NV Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $1,120.00 per week Application Question(s): What experience do you have working with youth? Do you have advanced backpacking and outdoor experience in the backcountry?

Language:

Spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Wilderness First Responder Certification OR WFA (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person