Local Italy Program Leader

Local Italy Program Leader (Summer 2027)

Rustic Pathways is a student travel organization that offers the world's finest experiential education, community service, foreign language, and adventure programs. 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 a strong emphasis on the protection, safety, and well-being of our students and staff. We empower students through innovative and responsible travel experiences to positively impact lives and communities around the world.

Local Italy Program Leader at Rustic Pathways

The Position
As a Local Program Leader, you live in the country of operation, Italy. Your primary responsibility is the care and well-being 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 international leaders, community partners, activity operators, and Rustic Pathways managers. You are a liaison between the program experience and all stakeholders, providing trip updates and managing communication with parents and the global Rustic Pathways team. Expect to spend long days in some of the most welcoming communities on the planet. Community service professionals, customer service experts, globally conscious travelers, logistics lovers, and youth development facilitators are encouraged to apply. Rustic Pathways is committed to increasing diversity in our staff and recognizes the benefit of having a diverse, inclusive work environment. We actively encourage those from equity-seeking groups to apply. We believe in the value of diverse perspectives and experiences represented by our leaders.

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

This is a seasonal position.

Responsibilities

Embody Rustic Pathways' mission, vision, and values

Act as a role model and mentor to students

Protect the safety of students and children by abiding by our zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior

Monitor and manage student well-being

Follow Rustic Pathways' protocols while on the program

Address any student health issues and communicate action plans with parents

Respond calmly to issues as they arise with a focus on customer service and safety

Demonstrate responsible leadership and judgment, including cultural sensitivity

Create positive and inclusive group dynamics

Ensure students understand the history, culture, and context of the places visited

Model responsible travel by adhering to Rustic Pathways' sustainability protocols

Facilitate discussions drawing from your own personal experience and Rustic Pathways' discussion guides

Serve as the primary communicator with local vendors–including restaurants, transportation providers, and activity partners–using the local language as needed

Coordinate daily logistics with drivers, guides, and other service providers to ensure smooth program operations

Support translation and cultural mediation between students, staff, and local partners to enhance cross-cultural understanding and ensure clear communication

Job Qualifications

Experience:

At least 2 years of relevant experience in service-learning, tourism, outdoor leadership, youth mentorship, customer service, or experiential education.

At least 2 years of experience working with young adults and/or adolescents

At least 6 months of experience living and/or working in an international, multicultural, or cross-cultural environment

Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university OR equivalent work experience

Requirements:

Must be 22 years of age or older before your start date

Demonstrated maturity and leadership skills

Fluency in English and Italian

Basic CPR and First Aid certification from a licensed provider

NOTE: Certifications must ONLY be obtained through classroom