SOLO Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Instructor Bryson City, North Carolina

Overview

Job Description

For more than five decades, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has been a leader in the outdoor recreation industry, guiding more whitewater rafting trips and training more paddlers than any other organization of its kind. In addition to water-based adventures, NOC offers aerial and trail experiences, wilderness medicine training, retail services, dining, lodging, and trip planning support.

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Position Summary

SOLO Instructors are responsible for teaching courses in areas such as wilderness medicine, CPR, first aid, survival skills, and emergency care. A primary focus of this role is delivering Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training programs. Instructors may also lead courses including Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Basic Life Support (BLS), EMT refresher courses, CPR, first aid, and other related topics as needed.

This position involves preparing and presenting course material, guiding classroom discussions, facilitating hands-on training scenarios, and evaluating student performance through written and practical assessments. Instructors are expected to create a positive, engaging learning environment while maintaining high safety standards for both participants and staff.

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Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver engaging lessons that promote active participation, following guidance from program leadership
• Develop lesson plans and clearly communicate learning objectives
• Assess student progress and provide constructive feedback
• Prepare classroom spaces, materials, and equipment prior to instruction
• Supervise and support students in the use of training tools and resources
• Complete all course-related documentation and ensure proper cleanup of classroom and equipment
• Assist with social media content and communication efforts
• Support inventory management and maintain training equipment
• Contribute to the development of instructional materials and resources
• Participate in training and mentoring of other instructors
• Stay current with industry updates and incorporate new information into teaching practices

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Qualifications

Medical Background

• Experience delivering emergency medical care
• Current EMT certification or higher

Teaching Experience

• Prior experience teaching in classroom or alternative learning environments
• Familiarity with adult education principles and experiential learning methods
• Background in medical instruction is preferred

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college education preferred
• Current medical certification (minimum EMT; higher-level credentials such as RN, Paramedic, or MD are a plus)
• Previous training in wilderness medicine or a comparable field required

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Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Capability to walk at least one mile across uneven terrain

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Additional Information

This description outlines the general scope of the role and may not include every task or responsibility. Duties may evolve based on organizational needs.

As an employer with over 100 staff members, NOC complies with applicable OSHA regulations, including any vaccination and testing requirements if enacted.

Nantahala Outdoor Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic. The organization values diversity and strives to maintain a respectful, discrimination-free environment for all employees and partners.