Where: The Nisqually Delta and Reach, is the premier marine biodiversity hotspot of the south Puget Sound. The healthiest estuary in the south sound, major habitat restoration took place in 2008-09 on the delta in the largest salt marsh restoration project on the pacific coast. The delta is managed for Endangered Species Act listed Chinook Salmon, Steelhead Trout (a salmonid), and migratory birds. Over 280 species of birds have been confirmed in the Billy Frank / Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Since about 2008 there has been a recovery of and now year round resident population of Harbor Porpoise. Other cetaceans including dolphin species from California, and more rarely mystecetes including Gray Whale, and odonotcetes including SRKW Orca and Bigg’s Killer Whale. We have breeding populations of pelagic sea bird Pigeon Guillemot, and other sea birds. Eelgrass beds, large aggregations of two sea lion species, harbor seal, marine river otter, mink, coyote, and sites of high historical interest including Sequalitchew, Ft. Nisqually, and Medicine Creek are all present here. The Nisqually Reach Aquatic Reserve includes ~1500 acres of marine lands in a de jure conservation easement.
What: Learn highly valuable skills with cross-over appeal for the Eco-tourism industry, Field Biology & Marine Biology, and Environmental Education.
The employee must possess by the first day of employment:
an academic degree in a natural science
the ability and willingness to lead interesting and informative discussions on natural history
strong leadership abilities in a variety of situations
excellent interpersonal and communication skills with particular focus on guest geniality
a clean, neat presence including presentable clothing and personal grooming
several years experience boating on marine waters
several years experience in primitive camping
current CPR and Advanced First Aid certifications or superior qualifications
valid driver’s license, motor vehicle record and recent background check from a law enforcement agency
possession of the following in good condition:
complete emergency signal kit (whistle, mirror, 3 flares)
miscellaneous safety and navigation equipment (knife, fire-starter kit, personal first aid kit, pliers/multi-tool, waterproof headlamp, waterproof binoculars, chart & compass)
personal clothing suitable for foul weather and the activities of guiding kayak tours
tent, sleeping bag & pad, eating utensils, etc
The agreed upon duties and responsibilities of the employee include:
the ultimate responsibility for safety of all participants including:
continuous weather/sea condition checks, visual & radio
moment-to-moment decisions/evaluations of travel & safety procedures
efforts to ensure the comfort of participants both on & off shore
adherence to procedures outlined in the “Guide’s Manual”
the guidance & instruction of sea kayak tours including:
client orientation & safety discussion
oversight of packing of kayaks with group & client gear
oversight of making/breaking camp & food preparation
direction and supervision of activities of assistant/intern
timely & punctual conduct and commitment
thorough pre-trip preparation including: double-checking food and equipment checklists, weather radio check, filing of float plan/weather report, review of client roster & medical information
post-trip filing of trip log and proper disposition of release forms, collected fees, etc
cleaning & storage of equipment, vehicles, food containers & left-over foods after tours
inspection & maintenance of all equipment after tours as described in the “Guide’s Manual”
repairing all equipment damaged during trips
maintaining the cleanliness of all work areas and surrounding grounds as pertains to all duties above
complete reading & thorough understanding of the entire “Guide’s Manual” document
maintaining a good sense of humor and cooperative attitude towards co-workers, supervisors, and guests
treating guests in a manner that makes them feel respected, valued, liked and cared for
wearing protective footgear and prescription eyewear at all times while on duty
maintaining a drug- and tobacco-free work place
Ensure compliance of the entire tour party with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Refuge regulations, and other relevant regulations and non-codified ethics
Salary:
Highly competitive, Dependent On Experience
Hours:
Kayak Nisqually was founded mid-season 2017. We are a new and rapidly growing company. Gig work, on call. Room to grow in a growing company.
No experience required, will train.
Non-competition agreement for sea kayak tourism in Thurston, Pierce, and Mason counties required for a three year period.
Contact: adventure@kayaknisqually.com
C.V. and whatever you would like to share.