“I love working with Outward Bound because I get to challenge young people and see them break down the barriers of what they thought they could do. I’ve grown at Outward Bound in exactly the same way we push the participants to grow. I’m continually stretched into doing things I thought I couldn’t do.”
Outdoor Education Jobs: The Perks
We’re all about growing together! We’re ready to support your journey with plenty of training, certifications, and hands-on learning to level up throughout your career.
- All Group Leaders must have a current Wilderness First Aid which we supplement with annual scenario-based training and first aid refreshers, as part of our internal training and development.
- Depending on your passions and strength, we support professional development with opportunities to attain Swift Water Rescue, and Rafting Guide qualifications, roping, caving and canoeing training and refreshers as well as more internal activities training.
- Did we mention you get up to 10 paid training days per year?
Experience the warm and fuzzies as you help others reach within themselves to find strength, courage, and confidence. Theres nothing like watching someone push past their limits and come alive with curiosity and resilience!
Check out the impacts we have on students.
Enjoy an enviable workspace within wide-open skies, lush landscapes, and the magic of untouched Australia! Stay energised and connected to nature, working in places that most people only dream of exploring.
Pack your bags and get ready for adventure! With us, you can explore new parts of Australia and beyond. Flexible, seasonal roles mean fresh experiences and a healthy balance of work, play, and wanderlust. Over the Winter period, our crew can be seen travelling overseas, working the slopes or completing epic adventures!
This is not your standard day job. OBA ensures that the leadership team are born and bred outdoor educators so they can support and acknowledge the intricacies of being in the field.
Be part of something bigger than yourself.
Wearing the OB logo connects you to a global legacy. Whether you’re walking through a city or hiking a remote trail, you’re bound to hear, “I went on a program with you!”, “I used to work there!” or “That’s such a cool job!” From the deserts of Oman to the beaches of Costa Rica, our international colleagues are united by a shared belief: there is more in you than you know. Wherever we are in the world, we’re bound by a love of outdoor education—and the life-changing impact it creates.
Looking to get qualified?
If you’re looking to enter the outdoor industry, we recommend starting with a qualification in Outdoor Leadership. Contact your local Tafe, University or Outdoor peak body to see what options are available around you.
Get to know all of our crew
They’re the friendly faces, expert guides, and passionate adventurers who make it all happen.
Jobs
Program Coordinator
About the Role
As a Program Coordinator, you’ll play a key role in planning, coordinating, and supporting the safe and effective delivery of outdoor education programs.
You’ll work closely with our Head of Operations, Senior Program Coordinators and field teams to ensure programs are well designed, logistically sound, and meet the educational and wellbeing needs of participants.
This is a dynamic position combining office-based planning with field engagement and occasional hands-on delivery support — ideal for someone who enjoys both operational organisation and outdoor leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and coordinate high-quality outdoor education programs that align with client objectives.
- Manage program logistics, including equipment, food, transport, and safety documentation.
- Communicate with clients, staff, and stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and strong relationships.
- Support and mentor Group Leaders, Instructors, and new staff in program delivery.
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with all safety procedures.
- Step into field delivery as needed to support programs.
- Complete all program documentation, reports, and feedback accurately and on time.
About You
You’re a natural organiser and communicator who thrives in outdoor environments and collaborative teams. You can manage logistics, people, and details — while keeping sight of the bigger purpose: helping others grow through challenge and adventure.
You’ll Bring:
- Experience coordinating outdoor education or expedition-based programs.
- Demonstrated experience in leading or facilitating multi-day journeys with diverse groups.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in digital systems (Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint, etc.).
- Commitment to safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- A proactive, hands-on, and professional attitude.
Qualifications:
- Certificate IV or Diploma in Outdoor Leadership (or equivalent).
- Wilderness First Aid & CPR.
- Working with Children Check (WWCC/WWVP).
- Manual Driver’s Licence (Light Rigid preferred or ability to obtain).
- Additional qualifications such as Swiftwater Rescue, Roping, Canoeing, or Mountain Biking will be highly regarded.
Why Join Outward Bound?
- Be part of a national organisation shaping the future of outdoor learning.
- Work in a role that blends coordination, leadership, and purpose.
- Collaborate with passionate, skilled professionals in a supportive team.
- Enjoy a stunning natural work environment and make a tangible impact every day.
Ready to take the next step in your outdoor leadership career?
Apply now with your CV and cover letter telling us why you’d be a great fit for the Outward Bound team.
Group Leader
Outward Bound Australia is accepting ongoing applications for Group Leader positions as part of our bi-annual intake process.
Group Leaders are responsible for the faciliatation of safe and high-quality outdoor education programs.
Those programs are varied in their lenght, location, type and client groups. Outward Bound Australia delivers journey-based outdoor education programs in the ACT, Victoria, NSW and WA. Outward Bound also delivers centre-based programs out of its National Base, the Tharwa Campus.
Working with Outward Bound is the ultimate outdoor adventure! It offers industry-leading professional development.
A variety of contracts are available with great working conditions.
Skills and Experience Desired
• Cert IV in Outdoor Leadership or equivalent - with the following electives preferred: bushwalking, abseil, top-rope climbing, high ropes elements, canoeing, rafting, mountain biking
• Current Wilderness First Aid and CPR
• Current WWCC or WWVP.
• Manual driving license, unrestricted (preferred but not essential).
• Bronze medallion (preferred but not essential)
• Experience with client groups to deliver technical outdoor activities.
• Experience working with client groups to deliver facilitated activities and outcomes supported by outdoor activities.
• Experience in leading and facilitating multi-days expedition programs.