Glacier Guide - Franz Josef Glacier Guides

About the Role

Join the dynamic team of Franz Josef Glacier Guides, part of Ngāi Tahu Tourism, delivering extraordinary glacier experiences in one of New Zealand's most iconic natural landscapes. We seek dedicated Glacier Guides / Kaiārahi who are safety-conscious, adventurous, and committed to exceptional client engagement for a permanent, full-time position based on the West Coast.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead commercial groups safely across glaciated, high-risk terrains.
• Provide engaging and educational interpretative experiences about the glacier and surrounding environment.
• Identify potential hazards and actively participate in ongoing risk assessments.
• Maintain all guiding equipment and adhere to strict professional standards.
• Uphold Ngāi Tahu cultural values and guarantee memorable, safe tours.

Candidate Profile

• Enthusiastic about guiding and developing specialized mountaineering skills.
• Physically capable of thriving in demanding alpine weather and conditions.
• Maintains composure, professionalism, and safety focus during pressure situations.
• Excellent communicators with a strong customer-service orientation and respect for manaakitanga.
• Collaborative team players who demonstrate integrity, respect, and accountability.
• Eager to learn about and integrate Ngāi Tahu values and te reo Māori into their work.

Experience and Qualifications

We welcome applications from two groups:

• Experienced Guides: At least three years of experience in glacier, alpine, mountaineering, or similar technical outdoor leadership, skilled in glacier travel, ropework, crevasse hazard management, with experience guiding clients in risky environments. NZMGA Hard Ice Guide certification or active progression is highly preferred.
• Developing Guides: Strong foundational alpine or outdoor leadership experience with the willingness and capacity to pursue NZMGA Hard Ice Guide certification and commit to continuous training.

• Current First Aid Certification preferred (PHEC or equivalent) or readiness to attain it.
• Valid Class 1 driver license (including P endorsement) or willingness to acquire it.
• Avalanche awareness training is beneficial but not mandatory.

Our Offer

• Competitive remuneration package.
• Accommodation provided in Franz Josef.
• Robust training and assessment aligned with New Zealand Mountain Guides Association standards.
• Opportunity to earn while gaining advanced glacier guiding qualifications.
• Full provision of technical equipment including boots, crampons, harnesses, ice axes, and weather-appropriate gear.
• Supportive and cohesive team environment.
• Unique chance to live and work in the breathtaking West Coast region of Te Waipounamu.

Health & Safety

The safety of all team members and guests is paramount. Employment is contingent upon passing pre-employment screenings including drug and alcohol tests.

Additional Information

Applications are reviewed on receipt; early application is encouraged.