Bike & Boat
River Safety Guides - Part-time, as needed

Description:  

Wildlands Conservancy is currently seeking River Safety Guides to assist with our Bike & Boat Program. This program involves canoeing non-whitewater stretches of the Lehigh River through the Lehigh Valley and bicycling along the Lehigh Navigation Canal Towpath (the D & L Trail). Trips are educational in nature; our program uses the River corridor to educate schools, other private groups, and the general public about river ecology and history themed concepts. Our programs runs from late April to October with our busiest months being May, June and July.

Essential Functions of the Position  

• Work on a seasonal, part-time, as needed basis with an emphases on weekends;
• Safety guidance and professional leadership on Bike & Boat trips;
• Assist with education components and lessons;  
• Oversee equipment use related to programming and perform routine and as-needed maintenance to bikes, canoes, trailers, PFD’s, paddles, etc.;
• Conduct safety presentations and demonstrations as needed;
• Interact with students, teachers, and general public in a responsible, friendly, and professional manner;
• Work together with the program team, including a trip leader, other paid guides, river safety volunteers, and full-time Wildlands Conservancy staff;
• Responsible for trip logistics from start to finish

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Degree in a related field or currently seeking a degree in a related field preferred;
• Preference given to candidates with previous experience as a river guide and/or with additional relevant trainings or certifications (lifeguard, Wilderness First-Aid/ First Responder, water rescue trainings, etc.);
• Excellent verbal communication skills - ability to deal professionally with all customers;
• Ability to remain calm and confident during potentially stressful situations;
• Knowledge and experience with recreational aquatic activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing;
• Knowledge of educational opportunities as they relate to our program including history, geology, biology, and ecology of the Lehigh River and surrounding area;
• First Aid/CPR Certifications (or willingness to obtain) required;
• PA child Abuse and FBI clearances by the start of the season required;
• Must attend all Wildlands Conservancy orienteering and program training sessions;
• Must be available to start weekends during late April and all days by mid-May;
• Valid driver’s license required;
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Working Conditions

Bike and Boat Programs go rain or shine as long as conditions are safe. Successful candidates can expect to work outside, 4-10 hour days and should be aware that there is a possibility of trips during inclement weather. Trip occurrence is inconsistent at times; our busiest seasons are during May and June. There is significant weekend work, sometimes exclusively during the summer months. Candidates must be aware that this is a part-time, as needed position and hours will fluctuate.

Submission Information

Interested applicants should complete an application and mail or email with supplemental information (if necessary) to the address below. Positions will be filled by April 15th, 2012. For more information contact:

Outdoor Recreation Manager
Wildlands Conservancy
3701 Orchid Place
Emmaus, PA 18049-1637
610-965-4397 ext. 135
kfister@wildlandspa.org