Reindeer Handler & Guide

Borealis Basecamp•Fairbanks, AK

15d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The Reindeer Handler is responsible for the daily care, training, and handling of the reindeer herd while supporting guest-facing activity experiences. This role combines animal care with guest engagement to deliver safe, informative, and memorable experiences. Success in this role requires strong situational awareness, comfort working outdoors in extreme conditions, and the ability to interact confidently and professionally with guests. All Adventures Team staff work a rotating schedule providing coverage at the Adventure Desk approximately 1 day per week. Welcome to Borealis Basecamp, the ultimate adventure workplace! Located outside Fairbanks, Alaska, we are anything but a typical resort. Our domed igloos and cube-shaped accommodations give guests an unforgettable front-row seat to the Northern Lights and we need fun, energetic, and dedicated people to help make that magic happen. Every day is different. You could be helping guests gear up for a thrilling dog sled ride or snowmobile tour, sharing your love of the aurora, or helping someone capture the perfect photo. Reindeer walks, and amazing excursions are just the beginning. Every activity is a chance to create memories that last a lifetime and every team member plays a key role. We have opportunities across multiple departments where you can make an impact. Housekeepers keep rooms spotless, servers make every meal unforgettable, guides lead epic adventures, and front desk agents make every guest feel at home. Every role matters and every person helps bring the Borealis Basecamp experience to life. Our team is close-knit, supportive, and full of energy. We work hard, have fun, and celebrate every success whether it is a guest seeing the Northern Lights for the first time, a flawless dinner service, or keeping Basecamp running smoothly. If you love adventure, meeting amazing people from around the world, learning new skills, and being part of a team that makes magic every day, Borealis Basecamp is the place for you. Borealis Basecamp is not for everyone and that’s what makes it special. The ideal candidate is adventurous, self-motivated, and excited about living and working in a remote Alaskan environment. This is a place for people who seek experiences, not distractions. Our best team members are “aurora chasers” at heart, people who will step outside at 2:00 am to catch the Northern Lights, who enjoy being unplugged from the noise, and who find energy in nature, not nightlife. If you rely heavily on constant Wi-Fi, city life, or a busy social scene, this may not be the right fit. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who are dependable, positive, and ready to be part of a hardworking, close-knit team where everyone contributes. Join us and make this season unforgettable for our guests and for yourself.

Requirements

Prior experience working with livestock or reindeer required
Ability to obtain Wilderness First Responder certification (Company sponsored training available in early August)
Ability to communicate confidently and engage with guests
Ability to safely operate an ATV or snowmobile
High level of situational awareness and safety mindset
Willingness to work in outdoor Arctic conditions daily
Successful completion of a background check

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Knowledge of Alaskan wildlife, environment, and history
Experience in guiding or leading tours
Strong interpersonal and storytelling skills
Experience in remote or seasonal environments
Ability to multitask between animal care and guest service responsibilities

Responsibilities

Care for reindeer herd, including feeding, cleaning, and maintaining enclosures
Build and maintain trust-based relationships with animals through daily handling and training
Assist with veterinary care and monitor the health and well-being of the herd
Maintain cleanliness and organization of livestock areas and facilities
Track and manage inventory of feed, supplies, and equipment
Lead engaging and educational guest tours involving reindeer
Provide accurate information about reindeer, Alaskan wildlife, and local environment
Greet guests as they enter the adventure center, check them in and ensure all applicable waivers are signed
Outfit guests into proper fitting gear, sanitize gear as it is returned
Sell merchandise and tours from the adventure desk
Clean desk, and maintain a tidy building for guests
Communicate accurate availability for all tours to guests
Assist with activities desk operations as needed
Support additional operations and perform other duties as assigned