On-Water Teen Trip Leader

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum seeks two qualified on-water trip leaders to join our popular teen expedition program that has been running for 25 years. From the museum's campus on the shore of Lake Champlain, our expeditions connect teens with the region’s history, ecology, and archaeology through hands-on learning and life-changing experiences. Through our work, we inspire a new generation of leaders to shape their future and the future of the lake. Our on-water teen trip leaders will run two expeditions on the lake in 2021: a two-week kayak expedition and an 8-day rowing expedition.

Job Overview

The On-Water Teen Trip Leaders (2 open positions) will lead two teen expedition programs at Lake Champlain Maritime Museum during Summer 2021; Champlain Discovery and Expedition Champlain.

Champlain Discovery is a unique and challenging expedition for up to 10 teens to kayak the length of Lake Champlain from Whitehall, NY to Burlington, VT. Trip Leaders will work from July 10-26 (the expedition runs from July 11-25).

Expedition Champlain is a rowing expedition for up to 12 teens that departs from the Museum in Vergennes and rows north in two 32’ pilot gigs. These 6-oared boats are capable and sea worthy, but they are not common and we will provide training in handling them to the right candidate. Expedition Champlain runs from July 31st to August 9th.

Because of our small size we are flexible outside of the dates listed above. For a candidate who is looking for a full summer’s worth of work we may have some day programs such as the Kayak Building Camp that will run from June 25th to July 9^th. There will also be outfitting and preparation work for the expeditions on an hourly basis. In addition, we run a working wooden boat shop on the grounds of the Museum and there may be work according to the needs of the Champlain Longboats program.

Pay will be based on experience, up to $150/day on trail, and will be hourly when in base camp. Housing and food will be included while the programs are on the trail.

Trip Leader Responsibilities include:

• Ensure the emotional and physical safety of all participants while on trail.
• Work with your co-leader to make route and activity choices that will best serve the needs of your group and the current conditions.
• Regularly communicate your route and any deviations from it to the Assistant Director.
• Work with your co leader to guide the healthy development of your group so that all participants are challenged and given the opportunity to grow.
• Create an open and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Establish a healthy and communicative relationship with your co-leader.

To apply for this position, please send a cover letter, resume, and two references to [email protected] with “On-Water Teen Trip Leader Job Application” in the subject line. Applications due by April 1, 2021.

Minimum Requirements

• WFA or WFR certificate (WFR preferred).
• Experience with on-water trip leading, preferably in kayaks, and leading and managing group dynamics needed.
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, positive energy and a desire to work with teenagers is essential.
• A desire to share your knowledge in ways that are relatable to teens.
• This position includes onsite, offsite, and on-water work. Work outside will occur in all weather conditions and includes evening and weekend hours
• Must be able to stand and walk on uneven ground and dock surfaces for extended periods of time and
• Must be able to lift/haul +50 pounds.
• Strong swimming skills required