Lead Climbing Guide

 

Leading the World Outdoors
Adventures on the Gorge’s company vision statement is intended to be interpreted in multiple ways.  First, it illustrates our need to be the best at what we do in our industry and the need to continue to develop ourselves and our business for the future.  Perhaps more importantly, our vision states that we have an altruistic goal of helping others venture outdoors, at times, in places and in activities that will further develop their lifelong skills and increase their knowledge about nature and adventure.  We benefit from a strong belief in who we are and where we are headed. We look to our vision and guiding principles as providing that sense of understanding and direction, serving as a map and compass to help us reach our full potential.

Guiding Principles
We use these principles, and more, to guide our daily behavior and business decisions:
• Always balance fun and adventure with safety 
• Strive always to exceed our guests’ expectations 
• Provide a unique environment for staff and guests that fosters camaraderie and hospitality 
• Value our people, knowing that the quality of our staff define our ultimate success
• Invest in systems and processes, to ensure we deliver a consistent quality experience 
• Treat each and every guest and staff member with dignity and respect 
• Raise the standard of the industry with an emphasis on innovation 
• Recognize that profitability is essential for us to be healthy and grow

Responsibilities
The Lead Climbing Guide is responsible for providing exceptional and safe guide services to  Adventure Activities participants in order to achieve Adventures on the Gorge's vision of Leading the World Outdoors.  

Expectations
The Lead Climbing Guide is accountable for leading climbing and rappelling related trips; recognizing and troubleshooting any problems that may arise during a trip;  driving customer and staff safety following industry standards; providing training, coaching and performance management to novice guide staff. All AOTG employees are expected to help achieve our vision of leading the world outdoors by extending hospitality at all times, providing assistance where needed, and championing a one-company mindset. 

Duties
-Arrive at scheduled time to prepare any equipment needed for a climbing/rappelling trip
-Greet and register guests
-Plan expeditions, instruction, and appropriate commentary based on environmental conditions and clients’ skill and ability levels
-Provide guests and visitors with initial safety and administrative information and direction  
-Conduct activity while providing interesting and entertaining information about popular locations or specific points of interest 
-Retell and relay important or interesting historical facts, dates, and anecdotes
-Engage wit and charm to enhance the guest experience
-Tailor trip content to the age and interest of guests; facilitate rich discussions that maintain visitors’ interest 
-Maintain compliance with all applicable safety practices, environmental regulations, and company policies
-Maintain a working knowledge of all products and services offered by AOTG
-Assist all company guests with any general questions or directions as needed
-Perform other duties and responsibilities that may be added at the company's discretion

Qualifications
REQUIRED
-American Mountain Guides Association Single Pitch Instructor or higher certification or an equivalent certification if deemed acceptable by the National Park Service 
-Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and as part of a team
-Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner and adapt to changes in the work environment
-Basic written and verbal communication skills
-First Aid and CPR or other higher medical training certification
PREFERRED
-Working knowledge and relevant experience in the outdoor industry
-Valid driver's license, acceptable driving record and the ability to drive a large vehicle
-Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENT
-This job is an outdoor position that is subject to working with and doing tasks that involve heights, temperature extremes, exposure to road dust and vehicle exhaust, heavy lifting (50+ pounds), long durations of standing, walking, balancing, grasping, and frequent bending, pushing and pulling.

A Lead Climbing Guide is required to work weekends and other irregular hours as deemed necessary. Flexibility in work schedule is required in order to accommodate rapidly changing trip schedules.