Job Posting: Retail Associate/ Barista
Location: Tamarack Outdoors @ Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Position Type: Full-Time, Seasonal (May – September 2025)
Compensation: Competitive hourly wage + tips + staff discounts

About Us:

Nestled in the heart of Waterton Lakes National Park, our store and café are beloved by both locals and visitors alike. We offer a unique combination of high-end outdoor gear and clothing, souvenirs, artisan espresso and a curated selection of food offerings. Whether guests are starting their day with a coffee or shopping for that perfect new jacket, our goal is to provide exceptional service in a beautiful, welcoming environment. We’re passionate about sustainability, the outdoors, and creating a memorable experience for all who visit us in Waterton. 

We are looking for a dynamic, hardworking Retail Associate / Barista to join our team for the 2025 summer season. If you have a love for the outdoors, for coffee, enjoy interacting with people, and thrive in a busy, customer-focused environment, this is the role for you!

Position Overview:

As a Retail Associate / Barista, you’ll be responsible for a variety of tasks that keep our store and café running smoothly. From crafting exceptional coffee drinks to assisting customers with retail purchases, managing inventory, and ensuring cleanliness, you’ll play a key role in creating a positive and efficient experience for both our customers and your fellow team members. This position requires a blend of customer service, coffee-making skills, and retail expertise, all while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor in a busy, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Barista Service:

• Prepare Coffee & Espresso Drinks: Create high-quality coffee, espresso-based drinks, and other beverages according to standard recipes. Ensure consistency, taste, and presentation are always on point.

• Kitchen Skills: Bake, food prep and prepare large lunch orders for groups and customers.

• Customer Interaction: Greet customers, take their orders, and provide friendly, attentive service to ensure a positive experience. Educate guests about the coffee and drink menu.

• Maintain Equipment: Regularly clean and maintain the espresso machines, grinders, and other coffee equipment to ensure optimal performance and cleanliness.

• Cleaning/Maintenance: Ensure clean and tidy cafe surfaces and surroundings. Follow standard cleaning protocols for commercial kitchen environments. 

Retail Sales & Customer Service:

• Assist Customers: Help customers with selecting and purchasing items in our retail shop, including local souvenirs, outdoor gear, clothing, and gifts. Answer questions about products, offer recommendations, and provide excellent customer service.

• Point of Sale (POS) Transactions: Handle cash and credit card transactions efficiently and accurately. Process returns and exchanges when necessary.

• Merchandising: Ensure the retail space is well-organized, visually appealing, and stocked with the latest products. Assist with re-stocking shelves, arranging displays, and keeping the store tidy.

• Stock & Restock: Assist with inventory management by receiving shipments, checking stock levels, and ensuring products are neatly displayed and rotated. Maintain accurate stock records.

• Health & Safety Standards: Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, including food handling, hygiene, and cleanliness standards. Maintain a safe and pleasant environment for staff and customers.

Team Collaboration & Support:

• Work Well in a Team: Collaborate with other baristas, retail associates, and management to ensure smooth operations. Assist colleagues with tasks during busy periods.

• Assist with Special Events: Support promotional events, seasonal campaigns, and group catering orders as needed.

• Customer Feedback: Listen to and address customer feedback to improve service quality. Handle customer inquiries, concerns, or complaints in a professional and courteous manner.

Required Qualifications:

• Customer Service Experience: At least 1 year of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in a café or retail setting. A passion for creating positive customer experiences and a friendly, approachable demeanor.

• Barista Skills: Experience working as a barista is required. A passion for coffee and the desire to learn new skills is essential. 

• Retail Experience: Previous experience in retail or sales is preferred, including familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, cash handling, and product merchandising.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with customers and team members in a positive, professional manner.

• Organizational Skills: Ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.

• Attention to Detail: High standards for cleanliness and product presentation. Ability to spot inconsistencies and ensure all products are well-kept and well-stocked.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift boxes up to 50 lbs, and perform repetitive tasks (like cleaning and restocking) throughout the shift.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Waterton Lakes National Park: Familiarity with the local area, outdoor activities, and the types of products visitors to Waterton might be interested in is a plus.

• Food Handling or Safety Training: Certification in food safety or handling is an asset.

• Interest in Sustainability: Knowledge or interest in sustainable practices (such as eco-friendly products and waste reduction) is a bonus.

• Bilingualism: Proficiency in French or another language would be an asset to this role. 

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay: Competitive hourly wage plus tips. Based on experience and history with our company. 

• Subsidized Staff Accommodation: Clean, safe, and private staff accommodations are available with this position. 

• Employee Discounts: Discounts on coffee, food, and retail items.

• Fun, Outdoor Atmosphere: Work in a stunning national park surrounded by nature’s beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

• Team Environment: Be part of a supportive, friendly team where everyone’s input is valued, and the team spirit is strong.

• Flexible Hours: While this is a seasonal position, we offer flexibility in scheduling and the opportunity to enjoy time off to explore the park and nearby areas.

• Professional Growth: Training in barista skills, customer service, and retail management. Opportunities to develop and grow within the company.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about coffee, enjoy engaging with people, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume along with a cover letter explaining why you’re excited about working in Waterton Lakes National Park and why you’d be a great fit for this role.

Application Deadline: February 25, 2025
Interviews: Candidates will be contacted on a rolling basis.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. If you're looking for an exciting, rewarding job where you can combine your love of coffee, nature, and customer service, we look forward to hearing from you!

Job Posting: Part-Time Day Hiking Guide
Location: Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal (Spring-Fall)
Start Date: Schedule of Dates available upon request
Compensation: $150-200/day rate, based on experience. Gratuities from clients can average $50-150/Day

About Us:

We are a premier outdoor adventure company dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences in Waterton Lakes National Park, one of the most scenic and biodiverse parks in Canada. Our mission is to offer guests exceptional, safe, and immersive outdoor experiences while preserving the park's natural beauty. We pride ourselves on our local and knowledgeable guides, who combine a love for nature with a deep commitment to sustainable practices and client well-being.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Certified Day Hiking Guide to lead groups of adventurers on outdoor excursions in Waterton Lakes National Park. The ideal candidate will be passionate about nature, experienced in outdoor guiding, and knowledgeable about the area’s wildlife, terrain, and safety protocols.

As a Day Hiking Guide, you will be responsible for ensuring the safety, enjoyment, and education of guests as you lead them through hikes, kayaking tours, wildlife viewing, and other wilderness activities. You will be a key ambassador for our company, representing our values of sustainability, respect for nature, and exceptional service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guiding Excursions: Lead groups on a variety of outdoor adventures, including hiking, kayaking, backcountry trekking, wildlife watching, and other seasonal activities within Waterton Lakes National Park.

• Safety First: Maintain a focus on client safety, ensuring that all participants are properly equipped, briefed on safety protocols, and supported throughout their journey.

• Educational Interpretation: Share your knowledge of the park's ecology, geology, history, and wildlife with guests. Provide engaging and informative commentary to enhance the overall experience.

• Guest Engagement: Foster a positive, welcoming environment by ensuring guests have an enjoyable, memorable, and educational experience. Attend to individual needs and offer exceptional customer service.

• Risk Management: Perform risk assessments before each excursion and ensure all activities adhere to the park’s regulations. Handle emergency situations if necessary and follow appropriate protocols.

• Trail and Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all equipment is in excellent working condition, including kayaks, hiking gear, and safety equipment. Maintain trail safety and cleanliness during activities.

• Sustainability Practices: Promote responsible, eco-friendly behavior and sustainable practices to minimize the environmental impact of our activities.

• Collaboration: Work closely with other guides, managers, and support staff to coordinate logistics, schedules, and group dynamics.

Required Qualifications:

• Certification: Valid certification as an Adventure Guide or Outdoor Guide (e.g., ACMG- Assistant Hiking Guide, Apprentice or Professional Interpretive Guide (IGA), Wilderness First Responder (WFR), or equivalent). Additional certifications such as Wilderness First Aid (WFA), Canadian First Aid, Open Water Kayak, or Yoga Teacher Training are highly valued.

• Experience: We would prefer a minimum of 2 years of guiding experience in outdoor adventure settings, preferably in mountain, wilderness, or park environments.

• Knowledge: Strong understanding of outdoor safety protocols, navigation, and the ecology and wildlife of Waterton Lakes National Park. Ability to identify local flora and fauna and educate guests about the park’s natural and human history.

• Physical Fitness: Must be physically fit and capable of leading active excursions, including strenuous hiking, long days outdoors, and moderate to advanced physical activity.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and entertain groups of varying sizes and demographics. Bilingualism in English and French or another language is a plus.

• Customer Service Orientation: Ability to connect with people, make guests feel welcome, and handle unexpected challenges with professionalism and poise.

• Driving: Must have a valid Class 4 Commercial (Taxi/Ambulance/ Bus) Alberta License (or provincial equivalent) and be comfortable driving guests for experiences. 

Desired Qualifications:

• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Waterton Lakes National Park, its trail systems, wildlife, and cultural history is an asset.

• Technical Skills: Experience in advanced outdoor skills such as rock climbing, open water kayaking, mountaineering, yoga, or backcountry skiing is a bonus.

• Additional Certifications: CPR, Search and Rescue, or other relevant certifications.

• Experience with Groups: Ability to lead groups with diverse skill levels and ensure group cohesion and morale.

• Languages: Spoken languages other than English strongly desired (ie, German, French, Tagalog, Spanish)

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay: Competitive daily wage with opportunity for tips.

• Accommodation: Staff accommodation options are available 

• Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and certification programs related to guiding and outdoor education.

• Incredible Work Environment: Work in one of the most stunning national parks in Canada, surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

• Community: Be part of a passionate and like-minded team committed to environmental stewardship and sharing the beauty of the Canadian Rockies with others.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications, and any relevant certifications to info@tamarackwaterton.com. In your cover letter, please highlight your experience with leading outdoor activities, particularly in similar wilderness settings, and describe your approach to guest engagement and safety.

Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
Interviews: Candidates will be contacted on a rolling basis.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from diverse backgrounds. If you are passionate about nature, outdoor adventure, and making a positive impact on your community, we’d love to hear from you!