Group Leader – Hiking the Adirondacks

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Oversee and coordinate all logistics while ensuring the quality of educational delivery, which includes, but is not limited to: Airport meet & greet (when transfers are included); assist with hotel check-in and registration.

• Confirm vendors and included activities (instructors, local guides, coaches, restaurants, etc.).

• Conduct Orientation, Farewell Briefings, and Daily Wrap-up Briefings, along with managing Listening Devices.

• Accompany participants to all scheduled program activities and remain available 24/7.

• Enhance opportunities during “free time” by providing suggestions and organizing group dining experiences.

• Collaborate with local guides and instructors to ensure content is delivered clearly and effectively, fostering Q&A and educational engagement with participants.

• Manage payment disbursements to vendors (including tips) and oversee the program budget.

• Anticipate and address on-site program issues, including participant attitude, mobility concerns, dietary restrictions, vendor cancellations, missed activities, and weather events. This should be coordinated closely with Road Scholar.

• Adhere to established emergency protocols and escalate issues to Road Scholar as required.

• Follow Road Scholar branding guidelines regarding the use of apparel and signage.

⛳️ Requirements

• A CTP Certificate for Group Leaders is required or extensive professional tourism experience.

• Experience in group leadership within an educational and/or travel program setting; prior experience with Elderhostel/Road Scholar is preferred, as well as experience working with individuals aged 55+ and accommodating various physical abilities.

• A Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience is strongly preferred.

• Ideally, resides in the program destination/region or possesses in-depth knowledge of the area.

• Strong leadership capabilities to foster group cohesion.

• Clearly communicates expectations to participants.

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication abilities and a proficient command of the English language.

• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and share best practices.

• Should be able to operate basic AV functions (setting up laptops/projectors for lectures).

• Must have access to a reliable cell phone, capable of texting and/or emailing.

• Interested candidates should have hiking experience and be able to hike with participants across all three groups.

• Kayaking experience for program 23151 is preferred, but not mandatory.

• The Group Leader must possess a valid driver’s license and may need to drive a van for certain program activities.

🏝️ Benefits

• Insurance will be provided by Garnet Hill Lodge.