Multi-Day Outdoor Tour Guide Application

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Title: Multi-Day Outdoor Tour Guide
Type: Seasonal/Temporary, Experiences and Guiding
Location: Trips in Shenandoah NP, Virginia; Washington, D.C. metro; New River Gorge
NP, West Virginia
Compensation: $17.67- $21.83 per hour
Application Window: Open until filled

ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO INC.

Pioneering the way for Black-community informed design insights in the outdoor industry, Outdoor Afro Inc. develops products and experiences that serve as creative solutions for anyone who loves to get outside and look good while doing it. Visit: http://outdoorafro.inc or @outdoorafroinc across all social media platforms to learn more. 

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION 

The Multi-Day Outdoor Tour Guide (Guide) represents Outdoor Afro Inc. in partnering with REI guides to lead groups of guests on multi-day outdoor experiences in various locations, including Shenandoah NP, Virginia; Washington D.C. metro area; and New River Gorge NP, West Virginia. Trip itineraries include hiking, river rafting, kayaking, ropes courses, and camping with accommodation styles ranging from basic camping to high-end lodge-based trips. Please note, these itineraries are separate and distinct from Outdoor Afro Org public events. The Guide leads trips for both adult groups and families. The Guide is a professional focused on providing exceptional customer service, quality food, and well-researched local interpretation, while facilitating safe and fun experiences for our guests. 

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

General

  • Take guests on multi-day outdoor tours, while demonstrating excellent customer service skills and ensuring a five-star guest experience. 

  • Engage with guests by holding conversations, reading social cues, and adjusting your presentation style. Facilitate introductions and connections between guests.

  • Ensure safe practices and procedures are followed at all times. 

  • Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and awareness. Share in-depth knowledge of regional destinations and/or cultural activities. 

  • Provide interpretation relevant to the location (e.g., geography, geology, local flora/fauna) to ensure a quality guest experience. Answer guests’ questions regarding the natural elements in the location. 

  • Prepare meals following safe food storage and handling procedures.

 

Communication

  • Communicate the itinerary and important information with all guests in a fun and engaging way (pre-trip, debriefs, orientation, safety talks, regional/cultural information, etc.).

  • Set and communicate clear expectations for the guests about the schedule, safety, and Guide responsibilities. Offer suggestions and give appropriate warnings when needed. Provide thorough feedback and ideas for improvement.

  • Be open and candid with teammates and Guides and be open to giving constructive feedback.

  • Communicate clearly and constructively with the REI guide who serves as the Lead Guide. Ask the Lead Guide questions and listen to instructions from them.

 

Trip Run Duties (as assigned)

  • Support the Lead Guide in making decisions about last-minute trip itinerary changes, crisis and risk management, compliance, conflict resolution, and group management.

  • Operate as head contact for the Outdoor Afro Inc. team on each assigned trip departure.Complete all documentation required by Outdoor Afro Inc. and REI for each assigned trip departure.

  • Respond to all communications received from the Outdoor Afro Inc. team and relevant REI team members in a timely manner. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • 2+ years experience in guiding active outdoor tours and/or outdoor educational skills/programs in a group setting. 

  • At least 18 years of age. 

  • Must have a valid, state-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving background. Able to pass a physical exam, drug screen, and background check. 

  • Must be skilled in at least two activities relevant for the experiences, such as hiking, camping, kayaking, river rafting, and climbing. 

  • Adult and child CPR Certification or ability to obtain. 

  • Wilderness First Responder certification or ability to obtain. 

  • Food Handlers certification or ability to obtain. 

  • Leave No Trace certification or ability to obtain. 

  • Able to attend training April 12-17, 2024 in West Virginia. 

  • Available for trips June 2024 – November 2024, as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk long distances, use hands to handle objects, balance, talk, and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move gear.

COMPENSATION 

$17.767 – $21.83 per hour, commensurate with experience. Guides are provided food and accommodations for the duration of each tour experience; accommodations may be shared with another guide who identifies as the same gender.

Transportation to and from the tour location is not provided and transportation is not compensated.

TO APPLY 

Email a cover letter explaining why you’d be a great fit for this position and your resume to: [email protected]. Please indicate if you are a current or former Outdoor Afro volunteer.

Please note that no resumes will be reviewed or accepted via LinkedIn or Facebook inbox.

Outdoor Afro Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.