Seasonal Adventure Climbing Guide

Job Description

NROCKS Outdoor Adventures offers guided Via Ferratas, Top Rope Climbing, and Canopy Tours in the highlands of West Virginia. NROCKS is surrounded by some of the best traditional and sport climbing areas in the eastern US as well as an abundance of hiking, backpacking, paddling, and caving opportunities in the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding areas. This position is perfect for anyone looking to pursue rock climbing either professionally or recreationally, with the opportunity to climb with and learn from experienced traditional and sport climbers at nearby Seneca Rocks and many other local crags. Come see for yourself why the Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks is the most popular in the country, with a 5.0 star rating after more than 400 reviews on TripAdvisor!

Adventure Climbing Guides are responsible for safely leading, instructing, and supervising guests through Via Ferratas, Top Rope Climbing, and Canopy Tours at the NROCKS facility. They must ensure proper outfitting and use of safety gear/equipment; provide comprehensive and clear communication; and demonstrate the highest standards of quality service and professionalism.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a CPR/first aid certification, and be comfortable working at heights in a high adventure setting. While not required, preference is given to those with WFR/EMT, AMGA, or PCIA certifications and experience in challenge course or high-angle rescue.

Our high-volume season runs from April through October. Staff housing is available on a first-come first-serve basis. Training provided in multiple weekends leading up to peak season.

DUTIES:

• Facilitate groups and individuals on Via Ferrata climbs and Canopy Tours including communicating with the reservationist, completing pre-trip logistics and inspections, greeting guests, facilitating the safety orientation and demonstrating proper use of gear for our activities.
• Monitor guests to ensure they’re operating systems and equipment properly, and provide assistance when necessary.
• Make judgment calls if a guest cannot properly execute the required techniques or activities.
• Assist with rope-assisted retrievals and rescues as needed.
• Willing to be trained in and facilitate other activities such as customer service and maintenance duties as needed.
  
  

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in guest service required.
• Experience in a high angle environment (climbing/challenge course) preferred.
• Must be comfortable working with guests in a vertical environment.
• Have exceptional leadership skills and possess good judgment.
• Must be 18 years or older; 21 years or older preferred.
• Successfully complete NROCKS Via and Canopy Tour Training.
• Weekend and Summer Holiday availability required
• Basic First Aid and Adult CPR required.
• WFR, AMGA, ACCT, PCIA or PCGI certification a plus.
  
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to carry a backpack that exceeds 25 pounds for hours at a time while climbing. Must have the strength, endurance and flexibility required to comfortably climb the via ferrata route for hours at a time.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics and demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be working in mountainous terrain that includes inherent risks of its own and will be required to stand/climb/hike for extended periods of time. Will be working at exposed heights exceeding 250’ and will be continuously exposed to a variety of weather conditions.

COMPENSATION:

Adventure Climbing Guides are paid bi-weekly on a per trip basis.

Canopy Tours starting at $44/trip

Via Ferratas stating at $65/trip

(Gratuities for Guiding Staff accepted and encouraged throughout season)

Training: Reimbursed upon completion of NROCKS Training Program; Canopy Tour Training: $150, Via Feratta Training: $200

End of season Bonuses available upon eligibility

Housing Options available on a first come first serve basis. Priority given to staff available for full season.

Peak season starting in April through November.

NROCKS hires guides for the whole season as well as weekends only. Please outline availability in application.

Shifts are based on reservations and daily walk-ins. Open 7 days a week. Weekend and Summer Holiday availability is required.