WHITEWATER RAFT RIVER GUIDE TRAINING

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for the 2008 SEASON

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ART has an outstanding reputation for training whitewater river guides. We set the industry standards with our comprehensive program. Our training is primarily in paddle boat rafting but our guides are also trained to become proficient in oar boats. We feel our style reflects our philosophy of providing trips that are a learning experience. ART guides are trained to teach our guests about paddling techniques, river characteristics, local history, and the riparian environment.

Our training program is intensive and experiential in design. We will document training hours which will greatly exceed the state requirements. We expect all trainees to have a minimum of Red Cross basic first aid and CPR certifications before they arrive. We will begin to develop your "RIVER SENSE" as you learn about river characteristics and gain experiences in the river environment. ART guides must also possess a genuine interest in working with the public in a team environment. Topics of instruction include:

• EQUIPMENT: Use and care of all rafting gear. Proper inflation, maintenance, repair and rigging of paddle and oar boats.
• PADDLE STROKES: Forward, back paddle, pry and draw strokes. We will emphasize efficient techniques to maximize propulsion and minimize injury. We will develop an understanding of their effects on maneuvering rafts. Oar strokes are also covered.
• HAZARDS: Recognizing potential problems such as rocks, hydraulics, strainers, undercuts, low head dams, cold water and high water.
• RAPIDS: Scouting, portaging, and running rapids safely. Types and causes of rapids. Learning the classifications and grading on the I to VI scale.
• RESCUE: Self rescue, boat-based rescue, throwbags, and technical rope systems. Preventative procedures, rescue team organization, use of equipment, medical emergencies, entrapments and extrication will be covered. This rescue course set the industry standards for professional guides.
• TRAINING THE COMMERCIAL GUESTS: Techniques in developing a competent paddling crew, safety orientation, rescue procedures and understanding group dynamics.

Our river guide training will begin with an orientation at Arkansas River Tours' base in Cotopaxi. We will then start the "on the river" training on the Rio Chama in New Mexico or Dolores River in Colorado if river levels permit. This will be a 3-day wilderness trip to introduce trainees to river travel and the necessary skills and teamwork needed to safely run commercial trips. Our instructors will begin to evaluate your work ethic and ability to learn skills necessary to become a guide with ART. This trip will give you an opportunity to show your skills and desire.

Our hiring process is thorough and starts with your first phone interview. We expect trainees to show a strong ability to work in a team atmosphere and be supportive of each other. Your acceptance as an employee of ART will depend on your ability to work with our guests and with other employees as well as your river skills. Working as a river guide can be a fun and very rewarding occupation. If you are ready for a challenge, send us your application or call for more information. Get ready for the best summer of your life!

COURSE DATES and COSTS:

Training starts on May 20, 2008 at 9:00 am in Cotopaxi. 
Costs: $500.00 + 5.25% State Parks fee of $ 26.25.
This includes instruction, all boating gear and camping. Food is provided for the first 3-day wilderness trip only. A $100 deposit after we accept your application will hold your training position. Full payment due May 1, 2008.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR THE 2008 SEASON

• Guide Trainees
• Experienced Whitewater Guides and Fly Fishing Guides
• CDL Bus Drivers and Mechanics
• Office Staff (Reservations, Guest Services, Sales Clerks)

If you are interested in any of these positions, send an application or call (800) 321-4352 for more information and job descriptions. We are looking for friendly, creative, dedicated and hard-working applicants looking for a fun job opportunity.

FOR EXPERIENCED GUIDES

Thank you for your interest in guiding for Arkansas River Tours. ART guides have an outstanding reputation in running quality whitewater trips proficiently in paddle or oar boats. We feel our style reflects our philosophy of providing trips that are a learning experience as well as a fun experience. ART guides are trained to teach our guests about proper paddling techniques, river characteristics, local history and the riparian environment.

All experienced guides interested in working with us must be open to learning and training to meet our high standards. We feel there is room for individual styles but our basic objectives must be met. If you have an open mind and can agree to this arrangement, we invite you to join us for an "on the water interview" on a date to be determined in early spring. We will meet at 8:30 am to discuss our day on the river. We will run a full day section of the Arkansas. Potential guides will be given a chance to demonstrate their people skills and river skills. Guides should also be current in CPR and first aid prior to this interview. A completed application and river log should be on file with ART before this interview. You must bring your own river gear. Please call me at 719-686-0763 or 800-321-4352 if you have any questions. All potential guides must confirm their attendance by May 1, 2008. 

STAFF HOUSING

ART employees may camp for the summer at our private campground at Itty Bitty Lakes. This shady, riverside campground has electricity, phone, men and women's bathrooms with showers and a communal kitchen. This camp is located in Coaldale just 2 miles from our rafting base in Cotopaxi. This is a cost sharing arrangement and averages about

$ 300 per person for the entire season.

PAY SCALE & WORK ROTATION

ART guides are paid by the trip. First year guides make $ 54 for a full day and $ 28 for a ½ day. Guides enter our work rotation after completing the training program and successfully completing a qualifying (check out) run on a commercial trip with an instructor on board. This run usually takes place between 1 - 2 weeks after formal training is completed. During this time potential guides continue to gain experience by running boats with fellow trainees and riding on commercial trips with experienced guides.

EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION

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