Kenai Backcountry Adventures Bear Guard / Wilderness Safety Guide Seward, AK · Part time Company website

Kenai Backcountry Adventures is seeking experienced Bear Guards to ensure the safety of personnel working in remote, wildlife-prone environments across Alaska, including Arctic regions like the North Slope. This role involves monitoring bear activity, implementing deterrence measures, and responding to wildlife threats. Candidates should have relevant experience, firearm safety training, and required certifications, including Polar Bear Awareness and USFWS-approved Bear Guard Training. Frequent travel is required. Wages are based on experience and project needs (DOE). EMT certification is preferred.

Description

Job Title: Bear Guard / Wilderness Safety Guide

Location: Remote Field Work


About Us:

Kenai Backcountry Adventures specializes in providing expert Bear Guard Services and Wilderness Safety Guides for organizations and field teams operating in Alaska’s remote and challenging environments. Our mission is to ensure comprehensive safety, risk mitigation, and field support for clients engaged in activities such as oil and gas exploration, environmental research, surveying, mining, and film production.


Position Overview:

We are seeking highly trained and experienced Bear Guards to join our team. The primary responsibility of this role is to ensure the safety and security of personnel working in remote areas with potential wildlife hazards, including brown bears, black bears, polar bears, and other wildlife. The Bear Guard will monitor for wildlife activity, implement deterrence strategies, and respond effectively to any threats, ensuring the safety of all field personnel.


This position requires frequent travel, as we work on projects all over the state of Alaska, including Arctic regions such as the North Slope.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide vigilant monitoring for bear and other wildlife activity to protect field teams.
  • Install and maintain safety measures, such as electrical bear fences, around work sites.
  • Employ non-lethal deterrence methods to prevent wildlife encroachment.
  • Respond appropriately to wildlife encounters, prioritizing human safety and wildlife conservation.
  • Communicate effectively with team members regarding potential wildlife threats and safety protocols.
  • Assist in logistical support and project planning to enhance field safety and efficiency.


Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Prior experience in outdoor environments, wildlife management, or related fields preferred.
  • Previous firearm experience and completion of firearm safety training from a nationally recognized safety organization.
  • Completion of a bear safety course focused on bear awareness, conflict avoidance, and deterrent techniques within the last five years.
  • Ability to work in adverse weather conditions for extended periods, often on irregular and steep terrain.
  • Strong judgment and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work early morning or evening shifts, as well as days, weekends, and holidays.
  • Good judgment and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work well as part of a team.
  • EMT certification is preferred.
  • The bear guard will need to have the following training/certifications:
  1. Polar Bear Awareness, Safety, and Deterrence
  2. Bear Guard Training on the use of deterrents that meet USFWS requirements for Polar Bear Active Deterrence Authorization and Training requirements.


Physical Demands:

Candidates must be able to work in varying environmental conditions, including hot and cold temperatures, and may be exposed to odors, dust, mechanical hazards, high noise levels, and potentially dangerous equipment and materials. The role requires the ability to bend, reach, lift and carry up to 100 lbs frequently, and to stand, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb. Additionally, candidates should be able to sit for extended periods while driving or flying.


Additional Requirements:

  • Pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and/or random drug screening.
  • Pre-employment criminal background history check.
  • Successful completion of Bear Guard training (provided by Kenai Backcountry Adventures).


Compensation: Wages are based on a per project basis and experience (DOE).


How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and qualifications.


Kenai Backcountry Adventures is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.