Job Title: Group Paddle Guide (Flatwater)
Location: Genesee Waterways Center (Elmwood Ave., Rochester NY and Lock 32, Pittsford NY)
Employment Type: Part-time; Seasonal (May - October; some training in April)
Position Overview:
The Genesee Waterways Center seeks enthusiastic, reliable Group Paddle Guides (Flatwater) to join our team for the summer season. This position involves guiding groups on flatwater kayaking and/or canoeing excursions on the Genesee River and Erie Canal. You will be responsible for ensuring a fun, safe, and educational experience while providing exceptional customer service and maintaining equipment.
With two locations available—one on Elmwood Ave in Rochester and one at Lock 32 in Pittsford, NY (which features whitewater)—you’ll have the opportunity to work at either one or both locations.
As a guide, you’ll not only share paddling techniques but also teach individuals about the nature, history, and significance of the Genesee River and Erie Canal. When not guiding tours, you will serve as part of the livery rental staff, assisting customers with rentals, managing equipment, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations at the rental facilities. This is an ideal position for individuals passionate about water sports, outdoor recreation, and education.
Genesee Waterways Center’s mission is to bring people to the water, promoting equitable access to outdoor recreation. We are committed to activating spaces on the water to foster healthier, more connected communities. By offering safe and welcoming experiences on the water, we strive to create opportunities for all individuals to experience the benefits of outdoor activities.
Key Responsibilities:
Group Paddle Guide Duties:
Lead and guide groups on flatwater paddling adventures (kayaking & canoeing) along the Genesee River and Erie Canal, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Provide group safety orientations, including watercraft handling, safety gear, paddling instructions, and group management.
Assist customers in and out of boats and ensure proper usage of paddles, life jackets, and other required safety equipment.
Share educational information with participants about the nature, history, and ecology of the Genesee River and Erie Canal.
Supervise groups during outings, offering paddling tips and ensuring safety on the water.
Provide assistance with towlines as needed to help a group member or boat in distress.
Ensure all participants follow safety protocols and assist with managing the group to maintain order and safety during excursions.
Livery Rental Staff Duties (when not guiding):
Assist customers with selecting and renting watercraft (kayaks, canoes), ensuring they understand the safety requirements and proper usage.
Provide excellent customer service, helping with the setup and breakdown of equipment for rentals; and assisting with wayfinding on the River and Canal.
Assist with carrying and staging equipment down to and up from the dock for rentals.
Handle rental transactions, including processing payments and managing rentals using the point-of-sale system.
Inspect and maintain watercraft and equipment to ensure everything is in good working condition before and after each use.
Maintain a clean and organized rental area, ensuring watercraft are properly stored and ready for use.
Support the setup and breakdown of the rental area, including assisting with facility maintenance and general tasks.
General Duties:
Promote equitable access to outdoor recreation by ensuring all individuals, regardless of background or experience level, feel welcome and empowered on the water.
Contribute to activating the space for health and wellness by providing access to safe and healthy outdoor activities for local communities.
Assist with the maintenance of the waterfront facility and other general operations, such as supporting events, programming, and facility upkeep.
Be a positive representative of Genesee Waterways Center, fostering an enjoyable and educational experience for all participants. Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be able to swim. Lifeguard certification is a plus.
Previous experience in guiding group paddling activities, outdoor recreation, or similar roles is highly preferred.
Knowledge of flatwater kayaking, canoeing, and basic water safety procedures is required (training will be provided for specific equipment).
Ability to lead groups on flatwater paddling adventures, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all participants.
Comfortable assisting customers in and out of boats and providing watercraft instruction.
Must be able to handle and assist with a towline when necessary to assist a participant or boat in need.
Ability to share knowledge of the Genesee River, Erie Canal, and local ecosystems with participants in an engaging and informative manner. No formal education required.
Strong leadership, communication, and group management skills.
CPR and First Aid certification are a plus.
Physically capable of lifting and moving watercraft, paddles, and other equipment. Including up to 40 pounds repeatedly.
Must be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Including remaining on your feet and/or paddling for a few hours at a time.
Reliable, punctual, and able to provide exceptional customer service.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Committed to promoting an inclusive and accessible outdoor experience for people from all backgrounds.
Locations:
Applicants may choose to work at one location or be available to work across both locations, depending on availability and needs. 149 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY or Lock 32, Pittsford, NY
Work Schedule:
Seasonal position from May to October.
Must be available to work some weekends.
Flexible hours with varying shifts depending on demand, weather conditions, and group booking schedules.
Compensation:
Competitive hourly rate based on experience. Starting rate is $18.50/hour.
How to Apply:
Please apply by completing the application form found at www.geneseewaterways.org/hiring.
Join the Genesee Waterways Center team and help provide an exciting and memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts in the beautiful Rochester area!
If you have Questions: Contact Carrie Hoey at choey@geneseewaterways.org or at 585-328-3960. Thank you for your interest in the Genesee Waterways Center!