Paddle Excursionist

Inspire. Educate. Equip.  
We remove barriers and create access to outdoor experiences. 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Kayak Pittsburgh Excursionist is responsible for leading paddle sports trips offered by Venture Outdoors or Kayak Pittsburgh. These can include community, corporate, and custom group outings. Kayak Pittsburgh Excursionists will provide all participants of the program with the proper equipment, instruction, and on-water guidance while ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all paddlers.  

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Lead a variety of paddle programming at various locations 

• Prepare participants for paddling events by distributing materials, giving safety talks, launching and recovering paddlers 

• Ensure participants' safety on the water while creating enjoyable and memorable outdoor experiences 

• Monitor environmental conditions (high water, storms, lightning, heat, cold, etc.) before and during an outing 

• Care for participants’ needs, handle emergencies and contingencies 

• Ensure all relevant reporting is completed and returned to the office in a timely manner including participant evaluations, risk waivers, final trip reports, etc. 

• Be familiar with and follow all Venture Outdoors trip leader guidelines 

• Clean and store equipment properly 

• Attend biweekly staff meetings facilitated by Kayak Pittsburgh management 

QUALIFICATIONS
We recognize that all experience is unique and not always in a professional setting. Outdoor experience obtained recreationally or through volunteer opportunities is valid.  

• Must be at least 18 years of age at time of application 

• Previous paddling experience in non-motorized watercraft (kayak, SUP, canoe, etc) 

• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability 

• Ability to lead, motivate, and manage groups of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds 

• Willingness to be flexible with work assignments and roles 

• Knowledge of associated skills and equipment for leading outdoor recreation activities 

• Ability to speak in front of a group 

REQUIREMENTS 

• Attain PA State Act 34/151 Background Clearances and FBI Background check (must acquire prior to employment)  

• A finding on the criminal background clearances is not automatic disqualification, but rather a conversation starter) 

• Current CPR and First Aid certifications (can acquire upon hiring) 

• Once hired, an Excursionist will attend Venture Outdoors’ Outdoor Leadership Training and A.C.A. Kayak Touring Level 1 Training 

• Ability to repetitively lift and maneuver watercraft weighing up to 90 pounds with a partner 

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or religious exemption 

• Note: Medical and religious exemptions are accepted with written documentation (can provide upon hiring) 
   

HOW TO APPLY 

Use the following link or scan QR code at the bottom of the Job Description to submit an application: www.ventureoutdoors.org/about/employment-opportunities/  

Venture Outdoors is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

VENTURE OUTDOORS STAFF EQUITY STATEMENT 

We commit to the equitable treatment of our colleagues, participants, and community members by valuing their rights, dignity, voice, and expression. 

We welcome and respect the diversity of individuality such as race, sex, gender identity, ability, culture, and religion. 

We recognize the human right for all individuals to be respected and accepted without bias. 

We commit to an organizational responsibility to build individual and community respect, dignity, fairness, care, and equality. 

We strive to understand the role our system plays in perpetuating exclusion, and to address the dynamics that support it. 

We understand that accountability is mutual and reciprocal in order to continually learn and improve. 

We believe that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion extends beyond the workplace and encourage all to continue personal development alongside the organization. 

We require organizational staff and participants to encourage a culture of belonging and consider the entire experience and the ecosystem that supports. 

We will not tolerate explicit and implicit forms of racism, sexism, classism, xenophobia, ageism, and/or ableism. 

We will not accept the use of racial or gender biases and require staff to implement inclusionary practices within their duties and program design. 

Please follow this QR code to submit an application.