Kayaking Guide Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

About Us

At Northwest Passage, we focus on mental health and wellness through the adoption of our PassageWay Elements: Nature, Recreation, Relaxation, Nutrition, Exercise, Relationships, Service, and Spirit. These elements are central to our approach, combining traditional mental health treatment with arts, education, nature-based therapy, and experiential opportunities. Since 1978, we've been dedicated to providing high-quality care in a community dedicated in hope, recovery, and wellness. Our facilities in Northwest Wisconsin offer a peaceful environment for our clients and staff, with easy access to activities and resources near Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Eau Claire.
Northwest Passage proudly serves individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and we are committed to providing an environment where all feel welcomed and supported. Northwest Passage looks to build our team with candidates who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to all of our clients, demonstrating resilience, determination, collaboration, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. At Northwest Passage, you will foster hope through your involvement in the healing process. Guided by the PassageWay Elements, we strive to create a positive environment for growth and wellness for both our clients and staff.

Position Description

The PassageWay Instructor is responsible for providing instruction on practicing components of a therapeutic lifestyle to youth as part of an interdisciplinary treatment team. The position provides quality youth care and close supervision of clients in a residential treatment setting. This includes supervising and engaging in activities consistent with a therapeutic lifestyle, tracking and reporting on resident’s progress, and serving as a positive role model.

The schedule is Sunday 9:00 am-5:00 pm and Monday-Thursday 1:00-9:00 pm.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Work with residents across a broad range (K-12) to improve their overall physical and emotional health through the development of eight therapeutic lifestyle components consistent with the PassageWay.
• Lead fitness programs that include traditional approaches to fitness, as well as yoga, canoeing, kayaking, cross country skiing, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.
• Provide mentoring and support to Youth Development Specialists in developing and implementing PassageWay programming.
• Create and maintain a structured and safe living environment for youth as they participate in assessment/treatment.
• Provide a nurturing environment with close, intensive supervision for youth in accordance with least restrictive treatment measures.
• Assure residents’ basic needs are met including meals, exercise, hygiene, and sleep.
• Assure residents’ emotional needs are met in accordance with the individual treatment or assessment plan.
• Recognize and adjust communication to meet residents’ needs. Provide feedback that is clear, specific, timely, and respectful.
• Work with residents to provide solutions for problematic behaviors.
• Document program activities, residents’ behaviors and program participation, and significant incidents involving residents.
• Attend all staff meetings, trainings, and educational classes as required.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment.
• Understand and follow agency policies.
• Maintain an understanding of mental health concepts, psychotropic medications, and client symptomology.
• Advocate for appropriate goals, wants, and needs of residents.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in outdoor and/or experiential education, human services field, or physical education/health education preferred.
• Confidence and comfort in outdoor educational and leadership settings.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with colleagues and clients.
• A commitment to professional skill development and growth.
• Prior experience working with you in a residential or mental health setting.

Values

In addition to responsibilities and qualifications, ideal candidates will show an understanding of and an ongoing dedication to actively applying Northwest Passage's values, which are embedded into each role:

• Quality & Adaptability
• Respect & Compassion
• Leadership & Courage
• Connection & Well-being

Benefits

Northwest Passage is an equal employment opportunity employer.