Teach wilderness medicine in the stunning Nantahala Gorge and beyond!

Posted: Aug 28, 2026

SOLO Wilderness Medicine Instructor

Nantahala Outdoor Center

North Carolina

Wages/Pay
$17.00 - $21.00 / hour
Experience Level
Some experience required
Job Start Date
Aug 28, 2026

For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation. 

JOB SUMMARY

SOLO Instructors conduct courses in the fields of wilderness medicine, CPR, first aid, wilderness survival, and emergency medicine. Primary responsibilities of instructors are to teach Wilderness First Aid (WFA), CPR, Wilderness First Responder (WFR), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) courses. Instructors are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures, leading, and moderating classroom discussions, running hands-on scenarios, and administering and grading examinations and practical assessments. The instructor is expected to provide positive student interactions/experiences and to take all precautions to keep guests and other instructors prepared and safe.

Responsibilities and Duties:
 • Plan, prepare, and deliver instructional activities that facilitate active learning experiences.
 • Develop lesson plans and establish/communicate clear objectives for all learning activities.
 • Observe and evaluate student's performance and development and provide appropriate feedback on work.
 • Prepare classroom for class activities and check equipment and paperwork prior to start of class.
 • Instruct and monitor students in the use of learning materials and equipment.
 • Complete end of course activities in a timely manner including, but not limited to, end of course paperwork and classroom/equipment clean-up.
 • Assist in maintaining social media accounts and post relevant content
 • Assist with inventory control and equipment maintenance
 • Research and develop classroom resources for instructors
 • Answer phones in a professional manner
 • Train instructors as prescribed by the Manager and Assistant Manager
 • Stay updated with developments in subject areas and make relevant changes to instructional plans and activities.

Position Qualifications

Outdoor and Medical Background
 • Experience leading trips in back-country settings
 • Worked for more than one season as a head guide/trip leader
 • Medical provider: EMS, ski patrol, military, rescue squad or other channels

Teaching Experience:
 • Experience teaching in a classroom and an outdoor environment
 • Knowledge of concepts and experience teaching to adult learners
 • Understanding of methods and principles of experiential education
 • Medical teaching experience is preferred

Education:
 • High School diploma or equivalent required - College degree preferred
 • Current medical certification – EMT minimum requirement; EMT, RN, Paramedic, MD preferred
 • Previous wilderness medicine training or equivalent required

Physical Requirements:
 • Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs
 • Must be able to walk 3 miles over uneven terrain

The above noted job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of this position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of this position.

Please note that as an employer with over 100 employees, NOC will be required to comply with any OSHA Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard should that standard be enacted. 

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.

How to Apply

Apply Now

Contact Info

Nantahala Outdoor Center

For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures and provides unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services.

Location
North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee
Season
Spring, Summer, and Fall
Staff size
500-700
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Rustic campground style cabins shared with a roommate. Showers, bathrooms, kitchens, and hangout areas are all communal and in a separate building from the cabins. Limited pet friendly units available.
Family housing available
No
Single occupancy housing available
No
Pet friendly
Yes
Meals
Some meals / discounts
Cell phone service
Some, ask for details
Internet access
Good
About CoolWorks

Since 1995, CoolWorks has connected adventure-seekers with job opportunities in amazing places—from national parks to ski resorts, summer camps to dude ranches. We help people trade screen time for real time—meaningful experiences that spark connection and growth. Your next great adventure is waiting. More About CoolWorks

Need Help?

Check out our Help Center for FAQ's and helpful articles on how to use CoolWorks. For more in-depth information on how to navigate the world of Jobs in Great Places®, whether you're a Job Seeker or an Employer, visit our Resources page.
Scroll Less. Live More.