Paddle Assistant (Seasonal)

Wolf River Conservancy; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Part time

Job summary

Wolf River Conservancy is seeking Seasonal Paddle Assistants for the "Paddle the Greenway" program at the Epping Way section of the Wolf River Greenway. Spring runs April–June and Fall Sept–Nov.

Shifts run 8:30 am–12:30 pm on Saturdays with a typical 5-hour session, paying $20 per hour. Assist with logistics, participant check-in, PFD and paddle fitting, and on-water safety demonstrations while supporting the Paddle Program Lead.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Knowledge of kayaking, canoeing, boating and water safety.
• Prior customer service experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate logistics for paddle program: set up trailers, tents, and supplies.
• Greet participants, check-in online registrations, fit PFDs and paddles, and assist on the dock.
• Distribute marketing materials and educate participants about the program and the Wolf River Conservancy.

Skills

Kayaking experience

Canoeing experience

Boating experience

Boat safety knowledge

Customer service experience

Verbal and written communication

Interest in land conservation

Interest in wildlife

Interest in recreational programming

Education

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

Job description

Paddle Assistant (Seasonal)

Seasonal Paddle Assistants are tasked with the logistics of the Conservancy's sponsored "Paddle the Greenway" program held at the Epping Way section of the Wolf River Greenway; this program is held in spring and fall. (Spring Season – April thru June; Fall Season – September thru November)

Position Status: Seasonal (Monthly or Bi-Monthly Saturdays)

Hours

8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Pay Rate & Schedule

$20/per hour (5-hour shifts)

Essential Functions

• Logistics: Open storage containers and move two kayak and canoe trailers 500 feet to boat dock for unloading. Move other related supplies to program area. Set up Wolf River Greenway 10 x 10 tent and marketing supplies. Move and place boat trailers back in trailers after program and ensure all storage containers and access points are locked and secured. Assists Paddle Program Lead in other assigned tasks related to program execution.
• Customer Service: Greet participants according to Wolf River Conservancy's program standards. Check users in and ensure they have registered online. Assist users in being fitted with personal floatation devices (PFD’s) and paddles. Guide users to dock and assist with users getting into kayaks and canoes. Provide users with waterproof bags and assist Paddle Program Lead in demonstrating safety and paddle instructions. Remains on dock during program times to assist users getting out of kayaks and canoes.
• Marketing/Outreach: Distribute Wolf River Greenway marketing materials: brochures, stickers, etc to program participants. Educate participants on Wolf River Greenway and Wolf River Conservancy organization information.

Preferred Traits, Skills, And Education

• Knowledge and/or Experience in Kayaking, Canoeing, Boating and Boat Safety
• Prior Customer Service Experience
• Excellent Verbal and Written Communication
• Interest in Land Conservation, Native Plants and Wildlife
• Interest in Public Service
• Interest in Recreational Programming
• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

Physical Requirements

• Outdoor work generally involves visits to properties where good physical condition, vision and hearing are required to walk and interpret what is happening on the water; for the safety of all participants. Tools or other related equipment may be heavy, and all safety protocols shall be followed.
• Driving to sites requires use of personal vehicle (Note: mileage reimbursed).
• Must be capable of working for extended periods in harsh environments as needed including, but not limited to cold, damp conditions, hot humid conditions, exposure to hazardous plants and animals such as poison ivy, venomous snakes, biting insects, and other natural hazards.
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Continuous verbal communication, visual activity to effectively work with others and maintain safe standards to ensure participant safety.
• Frequent reaching, lifting, pushing and/or pulling kayak trailers up to 475 lbs. (loaded) or 220 lbs. (unloaded) with the assistance of a wheeled dolly down the paved Greenway Trail while maintaining proper safety protocols.