Wilderness Leaders

Wilderness Leaders – Upper School

Cranbrook Kingswood Upper School is seeking Wilderness Leaders for the 2025 CK Wilderness Expedition. The dates of the expedition are March 5, 2025 – March 17, 2025.

For over 50 years, Cranbrook Kingswood Upper School has offered sophomores the opportunity of a life-changing backpacking trip in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. The trip is designed as a physical and mental challenge in a relatively unfamiliar & beautiful environment. This type of experience is designed to engender feelings of self-worth and achievement. We incorporate values of compassion, awareness, excellence, integrity, equity, and inclusion. 

The Wilderness Leader position includes a mix of responsibilities including, but are not limited to the following:  

• Ensure a safe and positive experience for all students and adults.  


• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people, to create an environment of inclusion and cooperation in the backcountry and at base camp.  


• Take initiative and carry out necessary tasks individually and work cooperatively as a team.   


• Ability to plan and facilitate activities, lessons, and group discussions. 


• Must possess a current CPR certification, valid through April 2025.  


• WFR/WFA (Wilderness First Responder/Aid) encouraged. 


• Must be sufficiently fit to participate in all duties as assigned and maintain ample energy and focus to aid students, volunteers, and staff. 


• Appropriately manage physical and emotional safety on course. Possess the mental stamina, adaptability, and emotional maturity to work and thrive in a remote & challenging environment while working with students and co-leaders 24/7. 


• Follow the culture, guidelines, procedures, and protocols of the program.