Looking to get a job that involves hiking or backpacking? Despite the variety of positions that involve hiking or backpacking, there are some common certifications and training that are either necessary or can help enhance one’s qualifications for getting a hiking or backpacking job.
Medical Certifications for Hiking and Backpacking Jobs
If planning to work in the outdoors, having some basic medical training will be necessary. A backpacking guide may be required to provide aid to a group member, or a park ranger may have to treat a visitor. At the bare minimum, an applicant should have basic first aid and CPR training. In the United States, this can be obtained from organizations such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
More advanced training can include a wilderness first aid certification or wilderness first responder. These certifications incorporate medical training with an outdoors component, and teach students not only how to treat medical problems, but to manage these issues in the backcountry. Three groups that provide this training are the Wilderness Medicine Institute, Wilderness Medicine Association, and Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities (SOLO).
Training From the National Outdoors Leadership School and Outward Bound
Formal training in outdoors skills from organizations such as the National Outdoors Leadership School or Outward Bound can help enhance an applicant’s resume. These organizations are recognized in the U.S. and abroad for providing quality programs in both technical skills and outdoor leadership. These groups not only have courses that involve backpacking, but other skill sets such as rock climbing, canyoneering, water sports, sea kayaking, mountaineering, and other outdoor sports. They also have courses for those who are practicing or want to practice outdoor education.
Classes in Education, Counseling, and Natural Sciences for Hiking and Backpacking Jobs
People who hike or backpack for a living often incorporate other skills that are required for their positions. These skills are not necessarily outdoor-related. For instance, teaching is a common skill requirement for many jobs, whether it involves being a resource interpreter at a park or teaching hiking techniques as a guide. Also, many groups look for potential employees who have knowledge of flora, fauna, and the natural sciences to provide background knowledge of the environment to guests or clients. For those who work in the wilderness therapy industry as a field instructor, having some counseling, psychology, or sociology classes can be helpful for working in a therapeutic setting.
Law Enforcement Training for Park Ranger Jobs
Being a park ranger not only involves hiking in the park, but sometimes knowing how to handle situations with a cool head. Many parks at the state and federal level require that applicants have training in law enforcement in order to apply for some positions. Sometimes this training is provided by the hiring agency, while in other cases the applicant is required to possess this training before applying. Check with the local community college for law enforcement training certifications.
Trying to find a hiking or backpacking job isn’t enough. You must have the training needed in order to stand out from the crowd, and to land that job.
Bill Sassani - Bill Sassani is an outdoor enthusiast, educator, and writer with over 15 years' experience.
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