Kayaking Guide Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

GCI's Remote Camp Guide will provide small boat operation and guiding services for guests of the company, serve as a fishing, hiking, sightseeing, kayaking, sailing and skeet range guide, and to conduct various operational tasks and facility maintenance tasks as needed.  Operate, drive, and navigate passenger boats according to regulations.   Instruct guests on boating safety and use of life jackets. Report to supervisor all accidents, injuries, and unsafe work conditions.

Position's Customer(s): Customers are Retreat guests including GCI customers, clients, employees, and other invited guests.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT ALL LEVELS:

• Provide guided fishing, sightseeing, kayaking, hiking and sailing services on area streams and rivers to guests of the company.

• Conduct routine daily boat and fishing equipment maintenance.

• Fresh fish processing, handling and packaging.

• Assist other Retreat staff with loading and unloading of supplies, luggage and guests from Retreat airplane, boats, and vehicles, as well as other various guest support duties.

• Assist other Retreat staff with routine facility, grounds, vehicle and equipment maintenance duties.

• Function as Range Master on Retreat skeet shooting range.

COMPETENCIES:

• ACCOUNTABILITY- Takes ownership for actions, decisions, and results; openly accepts feedback and demonstrates a willingness to improve.
• BASIC PRINCIPLES - Interacts with people in a way that builds mutual trust, confidence, and respect; adheres to GCI's Code of Conduct for Employees - the Basic Principles.
• COLLABORATION - Works effectively with others to accomplish common goals and objectives; maintains positive relationships even under difficult circumstances.
  • Ability to perform a variety of tasks, working independently or with other personnel in a remote environment 
• COMMUNICATION- Conveys thoughts and expresses ideas appropriately and professionally.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to interact in a polite and professional manner with guests of the company.
• COMPLIANCE - Follows internal controls; protects company and guest confidential information; abides by GCI's Code of Business Conduct & Ethics. Interprets and accurately applies applicable codes, regulations, policies, procedures, guidelines, etc.
• CUSTOMER FOCUS - Develops positive rapport with guests. Demonstrates commitment to service excellence; gives high priority to customer satisfaction.
• RELIABILITY - Consistently follows through on assigned tasks as expected; demonstrates timely attendance at meetings, training, and other work obligations.
• RESULTS - Uses a combination of knowledge, initiative, sound decision making, innovation, adaptability, and problem solving.
• SAFETY & SECURITY - Supports a safe work environment by following all workplace safety rules and guidelines; complies with applicable Security policies and procedures.
  • Knowledgeable of laws and rules regulating sport fishing and be able to both promote and follow catch and release practices.
  • Stay current with company safety systems and Retreat safety policies.
• Basic MS Office knowledge (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel).
• Knowledgeable of and able to perform the duties of a professional fishing guide including knowing how, when and where to fish, appropriate and professional interaction with guests, safe watercraft operation in a variety of water and weather conditions and understanding of fish and wildlife characteristics and behavior.
• Ability to operate as a skilled boat operator, fisherman and instructor that is familiar with the remote Alaskan environment and, knowledgeable about Southwest Alaska geography.
• Ability to skillfully, properly and safely operate Retreat equipment including power tools and motorized equipment.
• Must be able to perform routine minor boat, outboard motor and jet unit servicing.

Additional Job Requirements: The Remote Camp Guide is responsible for leading and managing outdoor activities in remote camp settings. This role requires a blend of guiding expertise and skills, to ensure the safety, enjoyment, and satisfaction of all camp participants.

• Facilitate various outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, or wildlife observation.
• Provide instruction on outdoor skills, techniques, and safety procedures.
• Offer engaging and informative information about the local environment, wildlife, and geography.

Minimum Qualifications:

Required: 

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of two (2) years' experience in boating on lake/ river or employment in a similar position.
• First Aid/CPR/AED training - within one month of hire.

Preferred:

• Completion of a guide training course.
• USCG Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel certification (OUPV). 
• Other industry or job specific certifications. 
• Have knowledge of and be able to perform the duties of a professional fishing guide including knowing how, when and where to fish, appropriate and professional interaction with guests, safe watercraft operation in a variety of water and weather conditions and understanding of fish and wildlife characteristics and behavior. 
  • Be a skilled boat operator, fisherman and instructor that is familiar with the remote Alaskan environment and is knowledgeable about Southwest Alaska geography.
  • Be able to skillfully, properly and safely operate Retreat equipment including power tools and motorized equipment.
  • Be able to perform routine boat, outboard motor and jet unit servicing and repair.
• Team Leadership:
  • Be able to lead a crew of up to four fishing guides including training, scheduling, prioritizing, and assignment of duties.
  • Supervise, train, and mentor a team of guides or staff.
  • Schedule shifts and manage staff coverage to ensure all tours or activities are adequately staffed.
  • Conduct regular team meetings and performance reviews.
• Guest Experience:
  • Lead tours or activities, delivering engaging and informative commentary.
  • Address and resolve guest inquiries, concerns, or complaints in a professional and timely manner.
  • Ensure that all guests receive excellent customer service and have a positive experience.
• Operational Management:
  • Oversee the daily operations of tours or activities, including logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation.
  • Manage inventory and supplies related to tours or activities.
  • Handle administrative tasks such as reporting, record-keeping, and documentation.
• Program Development:
  • Assist in the development and enhancement of tour or activity programs.
  • Provide feedback and suggestions for improvements based on guest feedback and operational observations.
• Collaboration:
  • Work closely with other departments or teams to coordinate activities and resolve issues.
  • Represent the organization at events or meetings as needed.
  • Be able to perform a variety of tasks, working independently or with other personnel in a remote environment.         
• Compliance and Regulations:
  • Stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
  • Ensure that all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Be familiar with laws and rules regulating sport fishing and be able to both promote and follow catch and release practices.
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Monitor and enforce safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of guests and staff.
  • Conduct regular safety briefings and emergency drills.
  • Ensure that all equipment and facilities are well-maintained and meet safety standards.
  • Be familiar with company safety systems and Retreat safety policies.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS: 

This position requires driving a company-owned vehicle, company provided vehicle. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, a satisfactory driving record, and successfully complete Defensive Driving course.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and WORKING CONDITIONS:  

• Must live and work at a remote retreat location (with employer provided room and board) for a period of approximately five (5) months. 
• Work week schedule is set at seven (7) days per week. 
• Most duties are performed outside with exposure to weather.
• Physical stamina to lead tours and engage in activities for extended periods.
• Must be capable of performing a variety of physical functions involving safely move, transport, position, maneuver loads up to 70 lbs., efficiently and safely entering and exiting aircraft, boats and other motorized equipment, operation of, 4-wheeler and Bobcat, climbing ladders to heights of 20 feet, rowing an 18 foot river boat for sustained periods, standing and operating an outboard motor in rough water conditions and be able to demonstrate both fly fishing and conventional fishing techniques.
• Daily moving, traversing, and positioning self on varied uneven or unstable surfaces such as roofs and in trenches, often hampered by weather elements.
• High degree of dexterity and coordination to operate hand tools and to connect, separate, and twist multiple smaller items daily.
• Visual acuity is necessary to identify, inspect, observe, and assess details at near, mid, and far ranges.
• Ability to clearly distinguish colors for driving, identifying cables or other components, and safety signage.
• May encounter unrestrained animals/pets.

The company and its subsidiaries operate in a 24/7 environment providing critical services to Alaskans and may need to respond to public health and safety matters or other business emergencies. Due to business needs employees may be contacted outside of the core business hours to respond to an immediate emergency. As such, you will be requested to provide emergency after hours contact numbers, to include your home and cell phone numbers if you have those services. Culture, Engagement, and Connection: At GCI, we foster an environment where the unique perspectives of our employees, customers, and fellow Alaskans are celebrated. We add value to our community by nurturing and empowering each member of our workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for every Trailblazer. EEO: GCI is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other status or classification protected under applicable state or federal law.  DISCLAIMER:  The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. All employees of GCI work in support of the GCI Mission Statement and Declaration of Principles which are located on the GCI Career page and Employee portal.