Outdoor Adventure Center Guide I - Reserve

The starting pay range for this position begins at $16.32/hour but is based on the level of qualifications and relevant experience above the minimum requirements. 

Biltmore’s Outdoor Adventure Center Guides are responsible for providing safe 
and exceptional outdoor recreational and educational programs for guests, annual passholders, and groups. Outdoor activities include, but are not limited to, bike rentals and guided tours, guided raft and kayak river trips, hiking, archery, fishing, croquet, naturalist presentations, mindfulness and well-being programs, and team-building activities.  Outdoor Adventure Center Guides also provide basic maintenance for all related equipment, facilities, and trails.  Guides may assist with administrative duties, sales and bookings, and estate seminars and will also provide general support and assistance to the leadership team, department, and company.  Outdoor Adventure Center staff are expected to learn, and present to guests, Biltmore, Vanderbilt family, and land history, as well as information specific to individual outdoor activities. Guides are expected to adhere to the Biltmore Guest Services Standards at all times while also being a role model of our core values.  

Schedule will vary but is generally between 8:30 AM-5:30 PM daily. ​The work schedule will include weekends, evenings, and holidays. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability is required.

Essential Job Duties

1. Assist guests with information, rental equipment, and trail map orientation.

2. Load equipment on and off vans and trailers, including, but not limited to, rafts, oars, boats, kayaks, paddles, bikes, etc.

3. Drive a 15-passenger van and trailer loaded with guests and equipment, as well as other company vehicles.

4. Clean and maintain bikes, rafts, kayaks, and other equipment.

5. Maneuver kayaks and rafts using paddles and oar frames.

6. Launch and row a drift boat or raft.

7. Return all equipment and vehicles to the appropriate place and ensure that each item used will be ready to go out into the field as soon as needed.

8. Perform basic trail and habitat maintenance, including mowing, weed-eating, and digging.

9. Present naturalist, well-being, and history programs to guests.

10. Assist with administering special programs to large groups, including fishing schools.

11. Help guests with estate information and other activities offered at Biltmore.

12. Book tours, process payments, and interpret online reports.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Additional duties as assigned by department managers and supervisors.

2. Provide general support and assistance to department, leadership, and company as required.

3. Exhibit knowledge about all aspects of the working estate and competency in appropriate cross-selling other services and amenities across the property.

4. Demonstrate knowledge about Asheville and Western North Carolina, particularly in reference to outdoor activities.

Qualifications

1. One year or more of experience in outdoor program activities, related education, or equivalent experience.

2. Experience leading interpretive activities.

3. Experience in guiding and/or teaching outdoor activities preferred.

4. Excellent guest service and communication skills.  Public speaking experience preferred.

5. Valid driver’s license.

6. Current certification in First Aid and CPR (onsite required, not online) or the ability to obtain it within one month of hire. 

7. Ability to work well with co-workers and management.

8. Ability to represent the program and company in a professional manner consistent with standards is a must.  Should be able to handle basic guest service issues with diplomacy and tact.

9. General knowledge of horticulture and regional wildlife preferred.

10. Familiarity with Orvis 101 instructional programs preferred.

11. Familiarity with, or the ability to learn quickly, all safety regulations, state regulations, and procedures related to fishing and wildlife management.

Physical Requirements

1. Must be in good physical condition for outdoor activities in all temperatures and weather conditions.

2. Must have the ability to lift equipment onto racks, trailers, and vans. 

3. Must be able to swim.

4. Must have the ability to work effectively with exposure to dirt, dust, pollen, and other particulates.

5. Must have manual dexterity to handle bait, lines, and equipment.

6. Must pass a physical exam and drug screen test.

7. Must be able to see, hear, and speak.