Lead Mountain Bike Instructor

Fairfield & Litchfield County, United States | Posted on 12/12/2024

Company Overview: KC&E provides tours, experiences, camps, and international trips, both on and off the bike. Founded in 2015, KC&E has evolved to operate its tour and travel services at  and its bike camps and clinics at  . Based in Burke, VT, and Litchfield County, CT, KC&E is committed to delivering exceptional experiences to adventurers of all ages.

Location:

Connecticut - Camps in Redding, Cornwall, Colebrook, Newtown
Position Type:
Part-Time (Seasonal)

Schedule:

Monday–Wednesday (Thursday Rain Dates)

As the Lead Mountain Bike Instructor, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the successful execution of KC&E’s mountain biking programs. This role combines leadership, teaching, problem-solving, and organizational skills to deliver an outstanding camp experience. You’ll lead a team of instructors, ensure curriculum standards are met, and maintain a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for all participants. This is a leadership position requiring excellent communication, decision‑making, and the ability to inspire both staff and campers with a positive and encouraging attitude.

• Program Leadership:
  Manage daily camp operations, ensuring all activities align with KC&E’s standards of safety, fun, and skill development.
• Staff Oversight:
  Train, mentor, and supervise instructors to maintain program consistency and high‑quality instruction.
• Curriculum Execution:
  Lead skill‑building sessions, application rides, and activities based on KC&E’s structured curriculum.
• Participant Engagement:
  Build strong connections with campers and their families, addressing feedback and fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
• Safety and
  
  Risk Management:
  
  Monitor and enforce safety protocols on and off the trails, addressing any incidents promptly and professionally.
• Problem‑Solving:
  Quickly assess and resolve issues, including minor bike repairs, trail conditions, camper challenges, or staff needs, while ensuring the program runs smoothly.
• Administrative Duties:
  Oversee check‑in and check‑out processes, provide daily reports to the Camp Manager, and ensure proper documentation of incidents or feedback.
• Trail Knowledge:
  Familiarity with local trails, assess trail conditions, select appropriate routes, and adapt programming to meet participant skill levels and weather conditions.

• Experienced Leader:
  Prior experience in a supervisory or lead role, preferably in outdoor education or youth programs.
• Mountain Biking Expertise:
  Understanding of mountain biking techniques, trail navigation, and bike safety.
• Positive Attitude: A supportive, enthusiastic, and motivating demeanor that inspires campers and team members alike.
• Problem Solver:
  Excellent problem‑solving skills to handle dynamic situations, including camper needs, equipment issues, and environmental challenges.
• Strong Educator:
  Ability to teach and demonstrate skills effectively to a range of ages and abilities.
• Team Player:
  Skilled in team management, conflict resolution, and fostering a collaborative environment.
• Organized and Detail‑Oriented:
  Strong time‑management and organizational skills to handle logistics and scheduling.
• Customer‑Focused:
  Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to interact with parents, campers, and staff.

Camps run every Monday–Wednesday with Thursday rain dates, June 23 to August 18, from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

• In‑person training with the regional camp coordinator
• Virtual training modules

• Experience:
  
  2+ years in a leadership role within outdoor education, camp management, or similar fields.
• Proven experience teaching or coaching mountain biking.
• Certifications:
  
  First Aid and CPR (required).
• Skills:
  
  Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Exceptional problem‑solving skills to address challenges and adapt quickly.
• Physical fitness to ride and lead group rides for extended periods.
• Positive Attitude: A proactive and enthusiastic approach to both challenges and daily activities.
• Training:
  Completion of KC&E’s curriculum training is mandatory before starting.

• Competitive pay, with additional compensation for leadership responsibilities
• Advanced training in mountain biking instruction and program management
• Opportunities to develop leadership, problem‑solving, and mentorship skills
• Discounts on specialized bikes and equipment
• Discounts on select KC&E trips
• A supportive, outdoor‑focused work environment
• This is a seasonal position, but opportunities for continued work in other KC&E programs may be available.