Colorado Whitewater Paddle Specialist

For almost 20  years, Avid4 Adventure has empowered kids to live active outdoor lifestyles through our unique outdoor programming. Our Whitewater Specialists lay the foundation for a lifelong love of adventure through whitewater sports.. As one of our most senior and technically skilled Instructors, Whitewater Specialists have the opportunity to make an incredible impact by navigating high levels of risk management, technical skills, flexibility, and strong communication. In turn, our team members gain invaluable mentorship and training in outdoor sports, youth development, leadership, and Leave No Trace principles. If you are seeking meaningful work as part of an inclusive community of outdoor enthusiasts, we invite you to join us this upcoming summer!

We are hiring Whitewater Specialists for the following Colorado locations: 

• Golden

• Denver (Wash Park location)

In this role you will:

• Co-lead groups of up to 13 campers in age and developmentally appropriate instruction with outdoor activities including white water kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Leave No Trace principles, and teambuilding.

• Scout our whitewater site and assess for safety and run-ability. 

• Standing in moving water or on riverbank to assist campers in putting in/taking out from the river. Employing basic moving water rescue techniques when appropriate such as the use of throw ropes.

• You may also spend a couple days leading our multisport programming in mountain biking, climbing, and hiking (training is provided!) 

• Serve as a role model and guide campers by exhibiting appropriate behavior, attitudes, and activities.

• Follow and educate campers on safety protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants.

• Provide exceptional customer service to parents and all participants in our programs.

• If you are a trained Driver, transport up to 13 campers to and from program areas with company passenger vans.

Your Background:

• Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of camp

• Must be at least 20 years of age to be eligible for a Driver position

• Personal and/or professional whitewater experience is required. Must have familiarity with the following moving water safety protocols: reading class I-III rapids assessing and avoiding hazards, throwing ropes, foot entrapment, safety briefings, etc. 

• +1 years of experience working with kids in a professional or volunteer setting preferred

• Minimum of Basic First Aid & CPR certification by the start of camp (and we can point you in the right direction to get this done)

Important Details

• Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 35-40  hours/week

• Position Duration: Training begins May 18 -June 1, program depending. Camps run May 28 - June 10 through August 4 - 18, program depending.

• Compensation: Pay is determined based on position, additional responsibilities, relevant certifications, and staff tenure. Starting hourly are below: 

  • Specialists: $19.65/hour 

  • Camp Drivers: additional 3% hourly rate once fully trained 

  • Relevant Certification Bonuses: $125 - $400 per certification (up to $1,000) 

Our Interview Process

After you submit an application, here is what you can expect next: 

• Step 1: Complete a one-way video interview

• Step 2: 20-minute live virtual interview and submit three references (personal and/or professional)

• Final decision!!

This process moves quickly so be ready to hear from us shortly after you submit your application.

Why Avid4 Adventure?

• We were again voted by Outside Magazine as one of the 50 Best Places to Work.

• We are the only summer camp in the world that is a Certified B Corp (Benefit Corporation).

• We truly live by our Core Values.

• We are committed to improving inclusion, diversity, justice, and equity both internally and in the outdoor industry as a whole. You can learn more about our JEDI commitments and progress here.

• Benefits - Affordable health insurance for seasonal staff, access to free gear, discounted pro deals on gear, professional development, public transportation reimbursement to/from camp, affordable healthcare for seasonal staff and more!