Rustic Pathways is a student travel organisation that offers the world's finest experiential education, community service, cultural immersion and adventure travel programs. We empower students through innovative and responsible travel experiences to positively impact lives and communities around the world. Our destinations stretch from the white-sand beaches of Fiji to the rainforest canopies of Costa Rica; the high Atlas mountains to the Great Barrier Reef; and many places in between. We provide superior quality travel and service in some of the most welcoming countries for students around the world. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of our operations, insists on quality in all aspects of our programs, and places strong emphasis on the protection, safety, and well-being of our students and staff.

Rustic Pathways is currently hiring Program Leaders in Australia to lead school group programs in 2021.

The Position

As a Program Leader, you are ultimately responsible for ensuring a life-shaping experience for our students on every program. This entails keeping students safe; following the program itinerary; providing appropriate supervision; implementing Rustic Pathways’ core learning values and framework; and creating a positive work environment for other staff members. You have the opportunity and great responsibility to engage with amazing communities and change the lives of youth across Australia.

Your primary responsibility is the care and wellbeing of our students while they travel. You are a primary responder in all escalated situations, incidents and emergencies. In partnership with your co-leaders, you’ll collaborate to create a safe and successful program experience for all Rustic Pathways students. You’ll work directly with local staff, community partners, activity operators and Rustic Pathways managers. Expect to spend long days in some of the most exciting destinations in Australia.

Community service professionals, globally-conscious travellers, outdoor educators, logistics lovers, teachers and youth development facilitators are encouraged to apply. Rustic Pathways is committed to increasing diversity in our staff and recognises the benefit of having a diverse, inclusive work environment. We believe in the value of diverse perspectives and experiences represented in our leaders.

Must be safety-oriented with a passion for experiential education. The position requires a lot of physical and emotional stamina.

You Are…

  • Exemplar of our mission, vision, and values
  • Pro-active communicator and problem-solver
  • Experienced in group management
  • Passionate about experiential education for youth

Responsibilities

  • Lead each program in its entirety, as outlined in the detailed itineraries provided by your manager
  • Take responsibility for the success of your program
  • Manage day-to-day logistics for a smooth and successful program
  • Act as a role model and mentor for students
  • Monitor and manage student health and well-being
  • Respond calmly and respectfully to any issues as they arise
  • Follow and implement all safety protocols
  • Follow and implement Inbound Australia’ core learning values & framework
  • Represent Rustic Pathways with integrity in all communities where we visit and work
  • Drive and maintain cleanliness of Rustic Pathways' vehicles to transport students during the program
  • Facilitate food shopping, meal preparation and clean-up to cater for students and staff
  • Any other tasks in accordance with operational requirements as directed by your manager

Key Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Excellent communication and presentation skills with ability to adapt according to context
  • Lateral thinking and problem solving skills with a positive mental attitude
  • Detail-oriented in all aspects of your work
  • Patient, enthusiastic, analytical, flexible, and solution-oriented
  • Believes in the value of experiential education and cultural exchange
  • Able to maintain excellence under pressure and ever-changing conditions

Requirements

  • Valid employment Working with Children's Check
  • Outdoor leadership qualifications and/or demonstrated experience
  • Strong experience working with youth and/or high school groups
  • WFR, WFA or Level 2 First Aid and CPR certified before start of work
  • Valid unencumbered driver’s license (ability to drive manual highly desirable)
  • Light Rigid, Medium Rigid or Heavy Rigid vehicle license highly desirable