Job description: Guide
Reporting to: Discovery Operations Manager
Discovery Bicycle Tours is looking for a passionate and experienced bike guide to lead multi-day cycling tours, ensuring an exceptional experience for all guests. Guides will be responsible for the safety and enjoyment of our guests during the tour. This position requires strong leadership skills, knowledge of the area, and a love for cycling and outdoor activities.
Key Responsibilities:
Guiding Leadership:
- Lead and guide cycling groups on various tours throughout the United States, ensuring that all participants are safe, comfortable, and informed throughout the trip.
- Ensure the smooth operation of each day’s itinerary, adjusting as necessary for weather, road conditions, or other factors.
- Provide clear instructions on cycling techniques, safety procedures, and tour expectations before and during the ride.
- Act as the main point of contact for participants, answering questions and helping where needed.
- Able to Co-lead with various other guides
Safety and Risk Management:
- Conduct pre-tour safety briefings and ensure all participants are equipped with the necessary gear, including helmets, water bottles, and appropriate clothing.
- Maintain the safety and well-being of participants by following road safety rules, managing group dynamics, and addressing emergencies or accidents as needed.
Driving the Van and Trailers:
- Safely drive a van and attached trailer to transport bikes, gear, and participants between tour locations as needed.
- Ensure that all equipment is securely loaded and unloaded, including bicycles, luggage, and other necessary gear.
- Manage the day-to-day operation of the van and trailer, including fueling, routine checks, and maintenance, and assist with troubleshooting minor vehicle issues.
Maintenance and Bicycle Care:
- Assist in minor repairs or adjustments to bikes during the tour, including fixing flat tires or adjusting brakes and gears.
- Maintain cleanliness and upkeep of all bikes, ensuring they are in optimal condition for each tour.
Customer Service:
- Foster a positive, friendly, and professional atmosphere, ensuring all participants have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
- Provide interpretation of the local culture, history, landmarks, and natural surroundings along the route.
- Respond to participant concerns or issues promptly, ensuring their needs are met and that their experience is enjoyable.
Job Requirements:
Experience:
- Experience as a guide, cycling guide, or similar role is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of cycling, bicycle maintenance, and outdoor safety.
- Experience in customer service, especially in an outdoor, tourism, or hospitality setting.
- Valid driver’s license with experience in driving vans and towing trailers (preferably with a clean driving record).
Skills:
- Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to navigate and lead groups through unfamiliar terrain, using maps, Ride With GPS, or other navigation tools.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain it).
- Competence in driving larger vehicles, including vans and trailers, and understanding how to load and secure gear safely.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to cycle for extended periods, typically 3-8 hours per day, across varied terrain.
- Comfortable leading groups on challenging cycling routes and in diverse weather conditions.
- Physically fit and capable of managing long rides and assisting with bike repairs.
- Ability to drive and operate a van and trailer safely for extended periods.
Personable
- Passionate about cycling and the outdoors.
- Friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge of local culture and history.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
