Leading the way down the first rapid of the Salmon River.
Guide Position Description
The guide team at LEAP is our most valuable asset. We expect our guides to work hard and be exceptional 100% of the time they are leading a program. As a guide at LEAP, your job is deeply dimensional. We are looking for guides who are passionate and eager to:
Work hard to acquire and refine the necessary technical skills to row a raft, guide groups in inflatable kayaks, navigate class II-IV whitewater, exemplify expedition mentality, rig boats, pack food, set up camp, and learn all aspects of our operation.
Express authentic curiosity and interest in participants on every program. Each week, we are facilitating the experience of a lifetime, and the guide team is essential in creating a positive community and environment for each group.
Be engaged with participants on and off the water. Guides are expected to lead with confidence and kindness on the water, lead games and activities in camp, share a love of the river and places we travel through, teach and support participants in camp set up and management, and participate in evening meetings.
Spend a thoroughly rigorous summer working long days in the field with a diverse array of participants and a close-knit team. This job asks that you give a lot, and you can expect a great deal in return.
Minimum Requirements:
At least 18 years old, over 21 preferred
Current (or ability to obtain) Wilderness First Aid & CPR certifications
Enthusiasm and interest in working with youth and adults in a wilderness context
Ability and enthusiasm to work a physical job for up to a 3-month period with minimal time off and limited personal time
Ability to diligently comply with our zero-substance use policy while facilitating programs
Ability to attend pre-season training and orientation in Oregon and Idaho
Ideal Candidates:
Solid experience working with youth in wilderness settings
Experienced whitewater kayak or raft guide/instructor, preferably multi-day excursions
Ability to connect with people of various ages and diverse backgrounds
Professional and/or personal multi-day backcountry excursions
Working understanding of trauma formation + trauma-informed care
Clean driving record
Expertise in Leave No Trace practices and principles
Wilderness First Responder Certification (required for some roles)
Benefits:
Opportunity to be a role model, mentor, and guide to specific and under-served communities
Professional Development: whitewater guide training & licensure, orientation and trauma-informed training for leading wilderness programs
Potential scholarship for medical certifications or recertification
Competitive field instructor salary
Spending your summer on the glorious Salmon and Deschutes Rivers
Professional purchase discounts via NRS and Prolink
Guide applications for the current season will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are submitted.
guide application process
1) Fill out our GUIDE APPLICATION.
2) Make sure to upload or email the following to programs@leapadventure.org:
A copy of your RESUME (including pertinent whitewater, wilderness, and guiding experience)
CURRENT CERTIFICATIONS (Wilderness First Responder, Swiftwater Rescue, Wilderness First Aid, etc.)
Names and contact information for two PERSONAL REFERENCES (letters of recommendation will not be accepted)
Our interview process typically consists of TWO INTERVIEWS to ensure we are a good fit for each other. We will check your references and conduct a background check. This is a time-intensive process, as we are committed to creating a strong guide team to facilitate our program experience, uphold our safety standards, and provide excellent care and support for each of our participants.
We will review applications and conduct interviews with qualified candidates on an on-going basis until all positions are filled for the upcoming season. Applications are open from January 15th, 2025 until our team is full.
We look forward to hearing from you and learning more about your interests, skills, attributes, and the enthusiasm you hope to bring to our team.
Please contact Program Director Matt Mogck with any questions you might have.
