About Accepting Other Organizations
Established in 2014, Accepting Others Organization (AOO) is a non-governmental, non-profit, and non-religious entity operating in federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Led by women and youth, our focus is on promoting and safeguarding human rights, particularly advancing women’s rights and empowerment nationwide. AOO is dedicated to fostering peaceful coexistence through tolerance and collaboration across diverse societal segments. Our efforts center on peacebuilding, social cohesion, and community engagement, believing in the power of dialogue to create inclusivity. A key aspect of our work involves advocating for crucial frameworks such as the Iraqi National Action Plan II and UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 2250, aiming to ensure gender equality and enhance women and youth participation in peacebuilding. Additionally, we provide support to governmental and non-governmental entities in developing policies aligned with international standards, striving to establish a just and equitable society. Through collaboration and community engagement, AOO seeks to drive positive change, promoting diversity, and inclusivity, and empowering women and youth to shape their communities actively.

Role of the Hiking Team Leader:

The Hiking Team Leader plays a central role in organizing and leading hiking expeditions, ensuring the safety, enjoyment, and well-being of participants while exploring natural landscapes and outdoor environments. They are responsible for planning routes, managing logistics, guiding participants, and facilitating memorable outdoor experiences.

Specific Tasks:

1. Route Planning and Preparation:
   • Research and plan hiking routes, considering factors such as distance, terrain difficulty, elevation gain, and trail conditions.
   • Conduct reconnaissance trips to assess trail suitability, identify potential hazards, and determine rest stops and campsite locations.
2. Logistics Management:
   • Coordinate transportation, accommodation, permits, and equipment rentals for hiking expeditions.
   • Ensure that participants are adequately informed about trip logistics, including meeting points, departure times, and required gear.
3. Safety and Risk Management:
   • Conduct pre-trip safety briefings, outlining emergency procedures, route details, weather forecasts, and wilderness etiquette.
   • Assess and mitigate potential risks and hazards, such as inclement weather, wildlife encounters, and navigation challenges.
4. Navigation and Orientation:
   • Lead hiking groups on designated trails, providing navigational guidance, route finding, and orientation along the way.
   • Educate participants on map reading, compass use, GPS navigation, and other outdoor navigation techniques.
5. Group Management and Leadership:
   • Foster a positive and inclusive group dynamic, encouraging teamwork, camaraderie, and mutual support among participants.
   • Lead by example, demonstrating good outdoor ethics, responsible behavior, and respect for the natural environment.
6. Environmental Education:
   • Provide interpretive commentary and information about the local flora, fauna, geology, and cultural heritage encountered during hikes.
   • Promote environmental stewardship and Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact of hiking activities on natural ecosystems.
7. Emergency Response and First Aid:
   • Be prepared to respond to emergencies and medical incidents on the trail, administering first aid, initiating evacuations, and seeking assistance as needed.
   • Maintain a well-equipped first aid kit and emergency communication devices, such as a satellite phone or two-way radio.

Essential Criteria:

1. Outdoor Leadership Experience:
   • Extensive experience in leading hiking or outdoor adventure activities, with a proven track record of successful expedition leadership.
   • Certification or training in wilderness first aid, outdoor leadership, or similar relevant qualifications is highly desirable.
2. Navigation Skills:
   • Proficiency in map reading, compass use, GPS navigation, and other outdoor orientation techniques.
   • Ability to navigate confidently in diverse terrain and environmental conditions, including forests, mountains, deserts, and coastal areas.
3. Safety and Risk Management:
   • Strong knowledge of outdoor safety practices, risk assessment, and emergency response protocols.
   • Ability to make informed decisions and adapt plans in response to changing weather, trail conditions, and group dynamics.
4. Interpersonal and Communication Skills:
   • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey instructions, information, and encouragement to participants.
   • Diplomacy, patience, and conflict resolution skills to manage group dynamics and address participant concerns or conflicts.
5. Physical Fitness and Endurance:
   • Excellent physical fitness and endurance to lead hiking expeditions over long distances, challenging terrain, and varying altitudes.
   • Ability to maintain a steady pace, set achievable goals, and support participants of different fitness levels throughout the journey.
6. Environmental Awareness:
   • Deep appreciation for the natural world and a commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable outdoor recreation practices.
   • Knowledge of local ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and conservation issues relevant to the hiking area.
7. Organizational and Logistical Skills:
   • Strong organizational skills to plan and coordinate logistics, including transportation, accommodations, permits, and equipment rentals.
   • Attention to detail and thoroughness in preparing trip itineraries, packing lists, emergency plans, and other essential documentation.
8. Adaptability and Problem-Solving Ability:
   • Flexibility and adaptability to unexpected challenges, setbacks, and changes in plans during hiking expeditions.
   • Resourcefulness and problem-solving skills to resolve logistical issues, navigate obstacles, and ensure the overall success of the trip.

These essential criteria outline the qualifications, skills, and attributes required for the successful candidate to fulfill the responsibilities of the Hiking Team Leader role effectively.

How to Apply

To apply for the position of Director of Programs at our organization, please submit your CV to HR@aooiraq.org

Please note the following guidelines:

CVs should be in standard document format (e.g., Word or PDF). Submissions in the form of images, pictures, screenshots, or links will not be accepted.

Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for further consideration.

Applications received after the expiration date of the advertisement will not be considered.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team. We look forward to reviewing your application.