Outdoor Inclusion Coalition Apprentice Pittsburgh, PA · Part time Company website

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The Outdoor Inclusion Coalition is seeking youth applicants for its Guide Development Program; a leadership and workforce pathway designed for young people age 15-19 who are ready to grow from outdoor recreation participant to leader. This opportunity is intended for youth who want to build outdoor skills, strengthen leadership capacity, support younger participants, and gain meaningful work experience in outdoor recreation and youth development. The program will run from June 2026 through March 2027 with hour reductions during the school year and will fluctuate based on seasonal interest.

Apprentices will assist with program delivery across after-school, weekend, and seasonal outdoor experiences. Participants in this role will receive mentorship, hands-on leadership experience, and access to workforce development opportunities that will include certifications, job readiness training, and exposure to future employment pathways in outdoor recreation, environmental education, camps, and youth-serving organizations.

WHAT AN APPRENTICE WILL GAIN

• Paid leadership experience
• Mentorship from OIC staff and outdoor professionals
• Hands-on experience supporting real program operations
• Job readiness and transferable skill development in areas such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and professionalism
• Opportunities for workforce training and industry-recognized certifications 
• Exposure to future pathways in outdoor recreation, camps, environmental education, and youth development
• Professional references and practical experience that can support future jobs and opportunities
• Opportunities for direct part time or full time employment at the conclusion of the program 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in leadership development sessions, trainings, and workforce readiness opportunities
• Support OIC staff with the delivery of outdoor programs, events, and seasonal activities
• Serve as a positive role model for younger participants
• Assist with group management, activity setup, transitions, and participant engagement
• Help reinforce program expectations around safety, teamwork, communication, and accountability
• Support activities such as hiking, biking, camping, climbing, environmental learning, and seasonal recreation based on program assignment
• Demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and a willingness to learn in outdoor and team-based settings
• Contribute to a positive and inclusive environment where all participants feel welcomed and supported

DESIRED APPLICANT

This opportunity is ideal for youth who:

• Age 15-19
• Are interested in outdoor recreation, leadership, and supporting peers
• Want meaningful paid experience and incremental responsibility
• Are interested in receiving credentials and certifications relevant to the outdoor industry 
• Are ready to grow in confidence, communication, and teamwork
• Can serve as a dependable and encouraging presence for younger participants
• Are open to coaching, feedback, and skill development
• Are interested in future employment pathways connected to the outdoors, camps, recreation, education, or community-based work

PROGRAM AREAS YOUTH MAY SUPPORT

Depending on season, skill level,  and recreational interest, Apprentices may support the following activities across after school programming, weekend excursions and summer camp programs. 

• Backpacking and camping experiences
• Rock climbing activities 
• Skiing and snowboarding programs 
• Whitewater rafting and kayaking 
• Fishing programs

EXPECTATIONS

• Show up on time and prepared
• Participate fully in trainings and leadership development activities
• Treat peers, staff, and participants with respect
• Follow safety guidance and program procedures
• Communicate clearly with staff when support is needed
• Represent OIC with professionalism in community and outdoor settings

REQUIREMENTS

• Work permit (where applicable) 
• Ability to work well independently and be part of a team
• Comfortable managing and communicating with groups
• Strong verbal communication 
• Comfort and interest in working with youth ages 8-17