The Apprenticeship Program is for an experienced individual interested in becoming an Assistant and Lead Instructor with our At-Risk program in Florida. It is designed to provide an understanding of Outward Bound philosophies and operations while providing experience to work hands-on with students as an apprentice on wilderness expeditions. An Instructor Apprentice should be an individual who plans to make a commitment to working as an instructor across multiple seasons following the apprenticeship. This position is located at our base camp in Mims, Florida.

Length of FL At-Risk Programs Apprenticeship

The 2020 Summer Apprenticeship Program will begin in early May.  The Program begins with a 12-day wilderness expedition to train apprentices in technical skills, safety and risk management, self-care, student management, and behavioral theory. Additional trainings and skill development days will also occur intermittently throughout the apprenticeship to support individual development needs. During the apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to instruct on one to two courses and work towards demonstrating the skills necessary to promote to an Assistant Instructor (AI) position. A third course as an Instructor Apprentice prior to work as an AI can be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The time it takes for you to transition into the Assistant Instructor role depends on scheduling, prior experience, and your drive to demonstrate growth. However, most times Instructor Apprentices can attain the AI position in three to four months. The Staffing Manager and trainers will intentionally place you on courses that will offer the most challenge and potential for advancement based on the skills you bring to the position. A stipend of $500 per month is provided until a promotion to AI occurs.

The Next Step

NCOBS Florida At-Risk programs run year-round. After moving to the position of Assistant Instructor, you may apply for full-time work. Full-time work requires a commitment of 18 months and is compensated with additional benefits like salary pay, priority in scheduling, a per-course bonus, and a housing stipend. Instructors generally work in the AI position for one to three consecutive seasons (4 months – 1 year) before being considered for promotion to Lead Instructor.

Requirements:

• Minimum 21 years old
• Experience working with youth – preference is given to applicants with experience working with at-risk populations.
• Current first aid and CPR certifications – preference is given to applicants with a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. **Individuals MUST be certified WFRs before working as Assistant Instructors.
• Valid driver’s license
• Experience in the outdoors – preference is given to applicants with experience guiding others.
• Ability to participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity, including but not limited to running, swimming, and canoeing.
• Ability to lift and move a minimum of 75 pounds 

Compensation and Benefits:

• $500 monthly stipend
• Room and board at a base camp
• Travel stipend for required travel between base camps
• Gear discounts