Trip Leader

Are you ready to make unforgettable memories, lead transformative backcountry adventures, and inspire future outdoor enthusiasts? As a Chewonki Trip Leader, you’ll be at the core of the Camp Chewonki experience, guiding participants through canoeing, sea kayaking, and backpacking adventures! We’re looking for kind, empathetic, and adventurous individuals who excel at creating safe, fun, and enriching environments. If you’re passionate about adventure, mentorship, and making a difference, this is your chance to lead and inspire!

• Location: Wiscasset, Maine (On Campus, Residential-Seasonal)

• Schedule/ 2025 Dates: June 13, 2025 - August 17, 2025

• Reports to: Director of Outdoor Programs

• Exempt/Non-exempt: Exempt

Essential Responsibilities:

• Trip Planning and Preparation:

  • Finalize trip itineraries, resupply dates, and logistical details.

  • Pack food and gear suitable for the trip’s discipline and duration.

  • Familiarize yourself with potential evacuation locations and scenarios.

  • Connect with participants before departure.

• While leading assigned trips, effectively implement the following:

  • Hold the risk management and group management for the duration of the trip.

  • Teach applicable technical and interpersonal skills.

  • Professionally represent Chewonki while in the field. 

  • Appropriately communicate with the trips office as planned and as needed.

  • Hold responsibility for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of participants.

• Develop a positive co-leader dynamic between other trip leaders and/or cabin leaders.

• Support other trip programs when not in the field by assisting with equipment repair, food stocking, teaching watercraft lessons, driving, or other tasks as needed. 

• Maintain professional presentation and communication with participants and their families, co-workers, and the public.

• Complete all necessary paperwork, i.e. incident reports, camper reports, trip reports, etc.

• Instill joy and enthusiasm into the daily life of camp, both on campus and on trip.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 21 years old*

  • *We have the capacity to hire a few trip leaders each summer who are under 21 years old, particularly those who have whitewater kayaking experience.

• Must pass Criminal Background Check.

• Valid driver’s license and driving record approved by Chewonki’s Insurance Carrier required, preferred. 

• Current Wilderness First Responder Certification.

• Experience in the outdoor or experiential education field, preferred.  

• Additional certifications or training in relevant fields (Registered Maine Guide, American Canoe Association Instructor, Swiftwater Rescue, etc), preferred. 

• Ability to live and work in a small community.

• Attend required onboarding and training sessions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lb at a time.

• Must be able to work in an active, outdoor environment in a variety of weather conditions.

• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.

• Able to maintain attention and a high level of energy or excitement for extended periods of time.

SALARY & BENEFITS

Starting Salary (Camp Chewonki Trip Leader): $4500 for the approximate 9 week season, increases based on prior leadership experience and relevant certifications (Registered Maine Guide, American Canoe Association Instructor, Swiftwater Rescue, etc).