Work For OP
Outdoor Pursuits is always on the lookout for hardworking, open-minded, and passionate students to join our dynamic team. As part of OP, you’ll find a tight-knit, supportive community that thrives on exploring, learning about, and sharing the wonders of the outdoors. If you’re ready to grow as a leader, create meaningful connections, and embrace adventure, we’d love to welcome you to the team!
APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN. Please read below about our interview policy and important dates for 2025. Applications for 2025 close February 14 at 11:59pm. Check out the job description here.
Outdoor Pursuits Positions
Being a part of OP is a fun and fulfilling job. As a part of our team, you’ll work as a trip leader with the opportunity to plan and lead trips ranging from afternoon climbing at Pilot Mountain to Spring Break backpacking in the Grand Canyon. You’ll also get the chance to work at our Rental Center and Climbing Wall during the week.
Interviews are offered to all applicants that can commit to attending OP’s Leadership Trip, working Wilderness to Wake, and attending All Staff Training. For applicants unable to attend these programs interview offers will be considered on a limited basis.
Leadership Trip, May 7-17
OP’s 10-day Leadership Trip will cover all the necessary skills and competencies to lead an OP overnight trip, like a backpacking trip, as well as introduce leaders to the skills necessary to lead rafting and climbing trips. In order to hone these skills we will embark on a 5-day backpacking trip circumnavigating the Linville Gorge Wilderness, a 2 day intro to whitewater and raft guiding on the Nantahala River, and 2 days of outdoor rock climbing and an intro to site management. Other skills covered will include: trip planning & pack-out, front country and backcountry cooking, risk management, group dynamics, and much more.
Wilderness to Wake, August 10-21 (Program & Training)
Wilderness to Wake is OP’s flagship program, in which OP Leaders welcome 100 incoming freshmen to Wake Forest through 5 days of outdoor adventures and community building in western North Carolina.
All Staff Training, August 22-23
This training covers required knowledge and skills for working the Rental Center and Climbing Wall.