Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide information
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$7.69 - $10.62
16% of jobs
$10.62 - $13.55
9% of jobs
$13.63 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.55 - $16.48
20% of jobs
The median wage is $16.92 / hr.
$16.48 - $19.41
35% of jobs
$19.41 - $22.33
4% of jobs
$22.33 - $25.26
3% of jobs
$25.26 - $28.19
3% of jobs
$28.19 - $31.12
1% of jobs
$31.12 - $34.05
1% of jobs
$34.05 - $36.98
3% of jobs
$36.98 - $39.90
4% of jobs
How much do full time backcountry ski guide jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time 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.
To thrive as a Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide, you need advanced skiing ability, avalanche safety knowledge, and relevant guiding certifications such as AMGA or AIARE credentials. Familiarity with GPS navigation tools, avalanche transceivers, rescue equipment, and weather forecasting systems is essential. Exceptional communication, decision-making under pressure, and leadership skills help build trust and keep groups safe in remote environments. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring client safety, providing a high-quality experience, and effectively managing risks inherent to backcountry travel.
Full Time Backcountry Ski Guides are professionals who lead groups of skiers into remote, ungroomed, and often mountainous terrain. Their primary role is to ensure client safety, provide instruction on backcountry skiing techniques, and share knowledge about avalanche safety and route finding. They possess advanced skiing skills, strong knowledge of snow conditions, and are typically certified in wilderness first aid and avalanche safety. These guides work throughout the winter season and often have experience in remote wilderness navigation and emergency response. Their expertise helps skiers explore challenging terrain safely and enjoyably.
Full Time Backcountry Ski Guides often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, avalanche risk management, and ensuring the safety of diverse groups with varying skill levels. Effective communication, advanced decision-making skills, and continuous training in avalanche safety and first aid are essential for managing these challenges. Guides also work closely with other guides and local rescue teams, fostering a collaborative environment to ensure the safety and enjoyment of their clients while adapting plans as conditions evolve.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs?
Cities with the most Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide job openings:
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 Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs?
States with the most job openings for Full Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs include:
