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Backcountry Ski Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Cat Ski Guide

Mccall, ID · On-site

As a Backcountry Cat Ski Guide, you will lead guests on exhilarating cat-skiing adventures in remote and pristine snow-covered terrain. Your primary responsibilities will include ensuring guest ...

New

Brundage Mountain Company

Cat Ski Guide

Mccall, ID · On-site

As a Backcountry Cat Ski Guide, you will lead guests on exhilarating cat-skiing adventures in remote and pristine snow-covered terrain. Your primary responsibilities will include ensuring guest ...

New

Alterra

Ski Mountaineering Coach 26/27

Warren, VT · On-site

$20/hr

You'll guide students in safely exploring the incredible side-country terrain surrounding Monroe ... Must be expert level with backcountry/side country, tree skiing and uphill travel experienced skier ...

Eleven Experience

Snow Safety Manager

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$6.0K/mo

At each destination our guided backcountry adventures await guests of all ages and skill levels ... Minimum of 5 years ski industry supervisory experience * Minimum of 10 years professional snow ...

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Backcountry Ski Guide information

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$39

How much do backcountry ski guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for backcountry ski guide in the United States is $19.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a backcountry ski guide do?

A Backcountry Ski Guide leads skiers through off-piste terrain, ensuring safety while providing an enjoyable experience. They assess weather and avalanche conditions, plan routes, and offer instruction on skiing techniques and backcountry safety. Guides must be skilled in navigation, first aid, and avalanche rescue. Their job is to minimize risks while delivering a rewarding adventure in remote and challenging environments.

What does a typical day look like for a backcountry ski guide?

A typical day for a Backcountry Ski Guide begins with monitoring weather and avalanche forecasts, planning safe routes, and preparing necessary gear and safety equipment. Guides meet with clients to review the day's objectives, provide briefings on safety protocols, and conduct equipment checks before heading out. Throughout the trip, they lead group navigation, manage pace, assess snow and avalanche risks, and offer instruction on skiing techniques as needed. Collaboration with other guides or rescue personnel may be required, especially in more challenging terrain or larger groups. Each day brings variety and requires adaptability, as conditions can change rapidly in the backcountry environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backcountry ski guide?

To thrive as a Backcountry Ski Guide, you need advanced skiing skills, avalanche awareness, wilderness first aid knowledge, and extensive outdoor experience, usually supported by certifications like AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) and WFR (Wilderness First Responder). Familiarity with avalanche beacons, GPS navigation, radios, and route-finding apps is essential for maintaining group safety and effective trip planning. Excellent communication, risk assessment, leadership, and decision-making skills help guides manage client needs and ensure group cohesion in challenging conditions. These competencies are crucial to lead safe, enjoyable, and well-coordinated backcountry trips in remote and often unpredictable mountain environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backcountry Ski Guide jobs?

The most popular types of Backcountry Ski Guide jobs are:

What states have the most Backcountry Ski Guide jobs?

States with the most job openings for Backcountry Ski Guide jobs include:

Backcountry Ski Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backcountry Ski Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Cat Ski Guide

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Mccall, ID • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Summary:

As a Backcountry Cat Ski Guide, you will lead guests on exhilarating cat-skiing adventures in remote and pristine snow-covered terrain. Your primary responsibilities will include ensuring guest safety, managing ski terrain, and providing a memorable backcountry experience. You will be part of a dynamic team committed to delivering top-notch customer service and unforgettable skiing experiences.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Safely guide groups of skiers and snowboarders through backcountry terrain, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and providing expert instruction.
  • Evaluate snowpack, weather conditions, and terrain to make informed decisions regarding safety and route selection.
  • Be prepared to respond to emergencies, administer first aid, and execute rescue operations if necessary.
  • Provide exceptional customer service, including pre-trip briefings, answering questions, and fostering a positive and engaging experience for all participants.
  • Be a steward of the Payette National Forest by educating guests on the surrounding ecology.
  • Oversee the maintenance and proper use of backcountry gear and equipment.
  • Work closely with other guides and support staff to ensure smooth operations and effective communication throughout the day.
  • Adhere to company policies, industry regulations, and best practices in all aspects of the job.

Job Summary:

As a Backcountry Cat Ski Guide, you will lead guests on exhilarating cat-skiing adventures in remote and pristine snow-covered terrain. Your primary responsibilities will include ensuring guest safety, managing ski terrain, and providing a memorable backcountry experience. You will be part of a dynamic team committed to delivering top-notch customer service and unforgettable skiing experiences.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Safely guide groups of skiers and snowboarders through backcountry terrain, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and providing expert instruction.
  • Evaluate snowpack, weather conditions, and terrain to make informed decisions regarding safety and route selection.
  • Be prepared to respond to emergencies, administer first aid, and execute rescue operations if necessary.
  • Provide exceptional customer service, including pre-trip briefings, answering questions, and fostering a positive and engaging experience for all participants.
  • Be a steward of the Payette National Forest by educating guests on the surrounding ecology.
  • Oversee the maintenance and proper use of backcountry gear and equipment.
  • Work closely with other guides and support staff to ensure smooth operations and effective communication throughout the day.
  • Adhere to company policies, industry regulations, and best practices in all aspects of the job.

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