Cultural Tour Leader

Would you like to join the Wilderness Scotland guiding team? Do you currently guide clients around Scotland, introducing them to our landscape, history and culture? Do you have a passion for outstanding service, a love of Scotland's natural landscape, and a curious mind?

If the answer to these questions is a YES then keep on reading.

The Wilderness Guide plays a pivotal role in the company, ensuring that our clients experience outstanding adventures throughout Scotland and England.

What We're Looking For

Wilderness Scotland is seeking Tour Leaders to host an array of trip itineraries in Scotland for our clients. The role does not require an NGB qualification (though it is desirable), but a valid first aid qualification is mandatory. The ideal candidate has a curious mind, a deep knowledge of Scotland's natural environment, history, culture, geology and geography, and is able to deliver engaging, customer focused and hospitable experiences for small groups of clients.

Key responsibilities include leading small groups, sharing the Scottish landscape and heritage, and acting as the host throughout the duration of any trip. Pursuing continuous personal and professional development, maintaining up to date qualifications, and adapting to ever changing itineraries are essential.

Freelance Benefits

• Guiding opportunities on a freelance basis
• Competitive daily guiding rates
• Meaningful and rewarding work
• Working with high quality equipment
• Training and development opportunities
• Support from a dedicated operations team whilst guiding in the field
• Industry discounts on outdoor clothing & equipment (for core guiding team)
• Opportunity to be part of an industry leading adventure travel company

Job Description - Responsibilities

• Represent all aspects of Wilderness Scotland's operation in the field.
• Embody the Wilderness values of Inspiration, Professionalism, Sustainability and Innovation.
• Deliver exceptional customer experiences while embracing sustainable tourism.
• Foster strong relationships with partners such as hotels, transport, activity providers and rural communities.
• Maintain familiarity with Wilderness Scotland's products and services.
• Act as ambassadors for the Scottish adventure travel industry.
• Provide professional, inspiring, informative and entertaining outdoor experiences.
• Be open, honest, approachable, flexible and responsive to client needs.
• Develop knowledge and skills beyond technical capability.
• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures, Risk Assessments and emergency protocols.
• Conduct safety checks and maintain equipment as required.
• Provide weather forecasts and other meteorological information daily.
• Submit a Trip Report immediately after every trip.
• Participate in training and development events as requested.
• Maintain and provide copies of all relevant guiding qualifications.
• Hold appropriate public liability insurance.

Job Description - Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years relevant guiding experience within Scotland.
• Detailed knowledge of Scotland's landscapes, history, culture and tourism industry.
• Experience with the entire tourism supply chain: accommodation, transport and service providers.
• Good IT skills and experience with cloud applications such as Google Apps.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence and ability to collaborate in diverse teams.
• Strong commitment to customer service excellence and 'extra mile' delivery.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• A genuine passion for Scotland's natural environment, culture and heritage.
• A curious mind that seeks out interesting experiences and encounters for clients.
• Valid first aid qualification and up to date public liability insurance.

Seasonal Operating Period

April - October is the main season during which trips are run across Scotland and its islands, with the majority of trips taking place from May to September. English trips focus on the north including the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the Cotswolds.

Our Commitment

Wilderness Scotland is dedicated to delivering world class client experiences and to setting new standards for adventure and experiential travel while maintaining a sustainable, community focused approach. Guides become ambassadors for the industry and actively contribute to the ongoing improvement of standards.