OA Guide Page

Q: I have a suggestion for our programs. What's the best way to submit that to Beck or Abbie?

A: We have a form for that! Suggestion Form

Q: How do I get proof of employment?

A: Go to www.ucpath.ucdavis.edu for all employment related documentation

Q: TRS wants me to put in my hours worked but I get paid a day rate. How should I report my time?

A: Enter times that equal your day rate of pay. For example, if you get paid equal to an 8 hour day (most guides) enter 9am to 5pm. Guides who do pre-trips and food buys (or other pre-trip organization) should track their hours and report those as usual. We do have limits however, so check the "How to Report Your Pay" sheet before you put in your hours.

Q: Does OA pay for more advanced certifications such as Wilderness First Responder?

A: Unfortunately no, however, there is a program on campus called the Student Development fund that you can utilize. This fund is a reimbursement grant, meaning you have to pay initially and the grant will pay you back. It will pay for up to $500 for a certification. 

Q: I can't work a shift that I am scheduled for. What should I do?

A: Use the Group Me channel to find someone to cover your shift. This is your responsibility. Start as soon as possible. It will be unlikely that you can find someone to cover the week of. If you're having trouble finding a cover email the student manager for your program and CC the respective career staff member (Beck - water, Abbie - Land) and let them know what's going on. This is very important, if we don't have enough guides, we have to cancel trips.

Q: As a guide I'm required to work a certain number of shifts a year to fulfill my work obligation. If I'm scheduled for a trip that gets cancelled, do those days still count towards my commitment?

A: Every guide is expected to fulfill their commitment regardless of circumstance. If, by the end of the first year you have not completed your commitment, you will be contactwd by your supervisor to discuss next steps. 

Q: Can I bring a friend/family member on a trip?

A: This is only possible on trips that have open spots after the registration close date (Monday at 12pm for Wilderness trips and Wednesday at 12pm for Rafting) and they pay 50% of the trip fee. Trip fee might be waived for rafting trips, since no extra cost there would be accrued to Outdoor Adventures. Limit one friend/family member per trip.

Q: My friend is interested in working for Outdoor Adventures. How can they become involved?

A: Unfortunately, we have a limited number of available staff positions and we typically only hire once a year for each position. Below is a general hiring schedule. Note: tell your friend not to name drop. Their application should be strong without having to say they know someone who already works for OA.

Q: I don't have my own camping/backpacking equipment. Can I borrow that from OA if I'm working a trip that requires it?

A: Yes! You will just need to make sure to have it  checked out to you by a Rental Center Staff member, so we can keep track of our equipment. To do this, come in during out open hours (M, Tu, Th, F 12-6pm) and let the RC staff member know what you need. Note: it is strictly forbidden to take rental equipment without permission. Taking equipment without permission could lead to termination of your employment. 

Q: I am part of a club that is doing a large camping trip. Can I use my 50% rental discount for my whole group?

A: No, your discount is only good for 2 people's worth of stuff. If you have a large group, please contact Beck at bvanhorsen@ucdavis.edu to do an advance rental. This will make things easier on you and you will most likely receive an extra discount.

Q: Can I rent items when the rental center is closed for breaks? 

A: No. No one is allowed access to our equipment during times of the RC being closed.

Q: I have a question for Beck or Abbie, what's the best way to contact them?

A: Utilizing the GroupMe app to communicate with Beck and Abbie is the best method but note that any messages received after hours will not be responded to until the next business day. Questions that are less urgent should be emailed.

Q: What pro-deals or perks do I get as a guide for OA?

A: All guides are able to access outdoorprolink for professional discounts on a variety of brands. Raft guides are able to access NRS prodeals and Rock Climbing guides get access to Rocknasium for free. Aside from these discounts/deals OA guides get free access to roll sessions and 50% off of rental equipment.