Northwaters & Langskib is seeking exceptional Trip Leaders for our summer 2025 season to guide and inspire youth in the heart of the stunning Temagami backcountry. Our canoe tripping program is designed to challenge and empower youth ages 10 to 17 through unforgettable 10-to-20-day backcountry canoe expeditions. If you have a passion for the outdoors, a commitment to personal growth, and an eagerness to create life-changing experiences, we want you on our team.

What We’re Looking For

• Passionate leaders who thrive in the outdoors and enjoy helping others grow through adventure.
• Extensive backcountry canoe tripping experience, including extended expeditions (20+ days), with at least three seasons of experience, two of which should be as an Assistant Trip Leader.
• Current certification in Wilderness First Responder (WFR) with the ability to respond to medical and emergency situations in the field.
• Certification in Swiftwater Rescue Training (SRT) or equivalent, ensuring safety while navigating waterways.
• A strong background in community building, group facilitation, and experiential learning. You will teach outdoor skills, teamwork, and self-reliance in a dynamic and supportive environment.
• Proven ability to model honesty, integrity, and resilience in both challenging and rewarding situations.
• An enthusiastic, adaptable, and positive attitude that encourages others to push their boundaries.
• The ability to maintain a strong sense of safety – both physical and emotional – while managing a diverse group of young participants.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire youth during multi-day backcountry canoe expeditions, ensuring a safe, positive, and educational experience.
• Teach essential outdoor skills, including flatwater and whitewater canoeing, map reading, backcountry navigation, and living skills like campfire cooking and Leave No Trace principles.
• Facilitate group activities designed to build trust, foster communication, and develop leadership skills in participants.
• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all group members, providing support as needed in challenging and remote environments.
• Assist with pre-trip logistics, in-field planning, and post-trip debriefs to ensure smooth operations before, during, and after each trip.
• Foster a strong sense of community, respect, and mutual support within the group, while encouraging self-reliance and personal growth.
• Manage and care for all necessary equipment, ensuring it is maintained and ready for use throughout the trip.
• Share your knowledge and experiences, helping participants develop confidence, resilience, and a deep connection to nature.
• Mentor Assistant Trip Leaders in their development as guides.

Contract Details

• Preferred start date: June 19, 2025
• Duration: June 19 – August 19, 2025 (potential to extend through September 30).

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Room and board included.
• Opportunity to explore long-term career options, as many of our Trip Leaders return for multiple summers!

About Us
We’re a wilderness canoe-tripping camp that operates across two island base camps on Lake Temagami, in Northern Ontario. Our programs serve boys, girls, and all-gender youth, helping them build confidence, independence, and valuable life skills in the outdoors. We emphasize learning from nature, fostering mutual respect, and our commitment to high-quality programming has created a welcoming, vibrant community of staff, participants, and families. Visit our website at www.northwaters.com to learn more.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Northwaters & Langskib is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and minorities.

To Apply
Please send your letter of intent and resume, highlighting your relevant experience, to Jen Zahorchak at jen@northwaters.com.