Bike Mechanic & Instructor/Guide, Summer

Job Description 

Position Title: Bike Mechanic & Instructor/Guide -  Summer
Location: Hakuba, Japan
Reports to: Summer Store Manager
Contract Term: June - September 25th, 2026 (potential for extension)
Salary: ¥1,850 per hour starting plus additional hourly incentives when delivering lessons or tours

Position Summary: 

As a Bike Mechanic & Summer Activity Guide, you will play an important role supporting both our workshop operations and summer activity programs.
In the workshop, you will ensure our rental and customer bikes are maintained to the highest standard, diagnosing and repairing mechanical issues while delivering quality service to guests.
Out on the trails, you will help deliver mountain bike lessons, e-bike tours, youth programs, and community events, creating fun, safe, and memorable outdoor experiences.
This role is ideal for team members who enjoy combining technical bike knowledge with guest-facing outdoor work and who want to contribute to building a strong summer riding culture.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

Your Daily Grind (minus the, well, grind)

• Diagnose and repair a wide range of bike issues, from flat tires and worn chains to complex suspension problems and drivetrain overhauls.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks like tune-ups, brake bleeds, and suspension adjustments, ensuring every bike performs flawlessly.
• Build new bikes from the ground up, ensuring precise assembly and customer satisfaction.
• Advise customers on bike selection, maintenance, and upgrades, sharing your expertise and passion for the sport.
• Maintain a clean and organised work area, keeping tools and inventory in top shape.
• Stay up-to-date on the latest mountain bike technologies and trends, constantly enhancing your knowledge.

Instruction & Tours

• Deliver safe, fun, and engaging mountain bike lessons 
• Lead guided e-bike tours that showcase the local area while emphasising safety and trail etiquette.
• Adapt instruction to suit individual and group ability levels to support skill progression.
• Support and help deliver youth development activities as part of the Rhythm Futures program.
• Conduct pre-activity safety briefings and ensure all equipment is properly fitted and maintained.
• Assist with in-store and community events that promote summer mountain culture.

Indoor/Outdoor Activities

• Assist with activity centre setup, equipment preparation, and pack-down.
• Become proficient in safety procedures and provide clear, concise instructions.
• Ensure the smooth operation of activities, anticipating and addressing guest needs.
• Maintain and inspect equipment meticulously, prioritising safety and functionality.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as reservations, scheduling, and equipment organisation

Beyond the Basics

• Welcome customers with a smile and infectious enthusiasm.
• Participate in inventory management and restocking procedures.
• Stay informed about industry trends and new product releases.
• Contribute to creating a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Be open to learning new skills and taking on additional responsibilities.
  
  

What you need to succeed:

• Proven experience as a bicycle mechanic or in a professional workshop environment
• Strong mechanical and diagnostic skills (drivetrain, brakes, suspension, wheel systems)
• High attention to detail and pride in quality workmanship
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Passion for cycling and outdoor sports
• Team-oriented attitude with a willingness to learn and grow
• Reliable, organised, and safety-focused work style

Preferred

• Previous experience guiding or instructing outdoor activities.
• Mountain bike instructor certification or willingness to obtain.
• Current First Aid / CPR certification (Wilderness First Aid preferred) or willingness to obtain.
• Japanese language ability highly preferred

The Perks and Benefits 

As a Rhythm employee, you will be shown the same hospitality that we give our customers. We love to look after our crew, and these are just a few additional benefits you will enjoy working with us: 

• The opportunity to live, work and play in one of the world's snowiest ski resorts by winter, and a green outdoor haven by summer. 
• Work for one of the best companies in the industry that knows what it means to have fun and truly love what we do.
• Competitive pay rates, an employee bonus program, and a subsidised lift pass in the winter.
• A variety of shift patterns to get you out exploring.
• Subsidised staff accommodation and housing assistance. 
• Team social activities, staff parties and events, team ride days, resort trips, department dinners, and much more.
• Access to other great benefits such as the Rhythm Wellness program, free ski, snowboard and bike demo, epic store discounts for you and your friends and family.
• Wellness initiatives include access to fruit, vitamins, yoga classes, and an employee assistance (EAP) program for your mental well-being.