ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

On Call River Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

French Broad Adventures

River-Raft Guide

Asheville, NC · On-site

Whitewater Rafting, Whitewater Guides, Adventure Guides, Outdoor Guide, Outdoor Industry For 44 ... Learn to read whitewater, use river signals, maneuver, and rig rafts, tie knots, work with guests ...

French Broad Adventures

River-Raft Guide

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

Whitewater Rafting, Whitewater Guides, Adventure Guides, Outdoor Guide, Outdoor Industry For 44 ... Learn to read whitewater, use river signals, maneuver, and rig rafts, tie knots, work with guests ...

The Outlaw Group

Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Moab, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

AVA Rafting & Zipline: Raft Guides Location(s): Moab Utah Work Season: Full time and Part Time, ... Have River Experience? AVA is looking for experienced raft guides to join our team across Utah. If ...

The Outlaw Group

Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Moab, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

AVA Rafting & Zipline: Raft Guides Location(s): Moab Utah Work Season: Full time and Part Time, ... Have River Experience? AVA is looking for experienced raft guides to join our team across Utah. If ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOn Call River Rafting Guide Jobs

On Call River Rafting Guide information

See salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do on call river rafting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for on call river rafting guide in the United States is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does the on-call nature of a river rafting guide position affect work-life balance and scheduling?

As an on-call river rafting guide, your work schedule can be highly variable and dependent on customer bookings, weather conditions, and river safety. This flexibility can be beneficial if you prefer irregular hours or are balancing other commitments, but it may require you to be available on short notice, especially during peak season. Effective communication with your outfitter and proactive planning are key to managing your personal time around fluctuating work demands. Many guides enjoy the dynamic environment and the opportunity to work with different teams and clients, which can also help build a diverse skill set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an On Call River Rafting Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as an On Call River Rafting Guide, you need strong paddling ability, water safety knowledge, and often a certification in CPR/First Aid or swiftwater rescue. Familiarity with rafting equipment, river navigation tools, and emergency communication systems is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for managing groups and unexpected situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure client safety, deliver memorable experiences, and effectively handle emergencies on the river.

Is being a raft guide worth it?

Being an on-call river rafting guide can be rewarding for those who enjoy outdoor work, teamwork, and guiding others through challenging water conditions. The job often involves seasonal work, physical activity, and certifications in water safety and first aid. Compensation varies based on location and experience, but it generally includes tips and sometimes lodging or transportation benefits.

What are On Call River Rafting Guides?

On Call River Rafting Guides are trained professionals who lead and assist rafting trips on rivers, but they work on an as-needed basis instead of a set schedule. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of guests, providing instructions, and navigating rafts through various river conditions. These guides are typically contacted when extra help is needed due to high demand, special events, or staff shortages. Their flexible role requires extensive knowledge of river safety, first aid, and customer service skills.

What is the difference between On Call River Rafting Guide vs Full-Time River Rafting Guide?

AspectOn Call River Rafting GuideFull-Time River Rafting Guide
CertificationsRequired (CPR, First Aid, Guide Certification)Required (CPR, First Aid, Guide Certification)
Work EnvironmentAs needed, flexible schedule, variable hoursConsistent schedule, seasonal or year-round
Employer UsageHired by outfitters for specific tripsEmployed full-time by outfitters or companies
Search IntentCompare flexible, part-time, or seasonal work optionsSeek stable, ongoing employment in river guiding

In summary, an On Call River Rafting Guide works on a flexible, as-needed basis, often for specific trips, while a Full-Time River Rafting Guide has a regular schedule and ongoing employment. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same industry environment, but differ mainly in work hours and employment stability.

How much do river raft guides make?

River raft guides typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and season. Many guides also receive tips from customers, which can significantly increase overall earnings, especially during peak seasons. Certifications in water safety and guiding skills can enhance earning potential.

How to become a rafting guide?

To become a rafting guide, you typically need to complete a water safety and rescue certification, such as CPR and first aid, and gain experience on the water. Many guides also obtain a river guiding certification from a recognized organization and develop strong swimming, communication, and leadership skills to ensure safety and customer enjoyment.

How much to tip a river raft guide?

For a river raft guide, it is customary to tip between 10% and 20% of the trip cost or $10 to $20 per person, depending on the quality of service and group size. Tipping is a common way to acknowledge guides' skills, safety management, and customer service during the trip.
More about On Call River Rafting Guide jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of River Rafting Guide jobs? The most popular types of River Rafting Guide jobs are:
What job categories do people searching On Call River Rafting Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for On Call River Rafting Guide jobs are:
On Call River Rafting Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various On Call River Rafting Guide job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Full Time, 80% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,609 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

River-Raft Guide

French Broad Adventures

Asheville, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Whitewater Rafting, Whitewater Guides, Adventure Guides, Outdoor Guide, Outdoor Industry

For 44 years French Broad Adventures has been a leader in the outdoor industry in Western North Carolina and has trained thousands of adventure guides. Our adventures offer you the opportunity to join a family-oriented small business and gain important skills in outdoor adventures for this season and beyond.

*This job will be based at our Marshall, NC Outpost

Hiring for 2026 - Submit Your Resume

WANT A FUN JOB IN THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE INDUSTRY?

Whitewater rafting, zipline canopy tours, canyoneering, calm water trips-- we've got it all! We operate our adventures outside Asheville, Marshall, and Hot Springs, NC.
The mission of French Broad Adventures is to combine experienced guides, excellent customer service, and exceptional outdoor adventures to create incomparable memories for our valued guests. Our main season goes from mid-May through September. This is a seasonal position. Experience is preferred, but we will train the right candidates.

Training for inexperienced guides will be the last weekend in April and the first three weekends in May. Classes are offered through Asheville-Buncombe Community College. The cost is $400, which is refundable at the end of the season if all commitments are met.
 

The Whitewater Rafting Professional Guide Course is for those interested in learning the skills required to efficiently and safely paddle a commercial raft on rivers with Class I-IV rapids. This two-day course is taught in conjunction with ABTECH and includes advanced river reading, safety considerations, and paddling techniques. Whitewater Rafting Guide training will focus on the fundamentals and skills needed. Learn to read whitewater, use river signals, maneuver, and rig rafts, tie knots, work with guests, and other basic river operations.

Interested in spending the summer whitewater rafting with us on the beautiful French Broad River? Join our team of adventure-loving outdoor enthusiasts!

Register on ABTECH-Madsion Campus‍

Search for Whitewater Rafting Guide or SEF-0015-432WT

Saturdays and Sundays | April 25 - May 17 | 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Marshall Outpost, RM 112
French Broad Adventures
Fees: Course: $415.00
SEF-0015-432WT

Raft Guides must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Maintain a current First Aid/Basic CPR/AED certification
  • Complete FBA Raft Guide training and check-out process
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service skills
  • Work well under pressure
  • Have a positive attitude
  • Possess the ability to take direction
  • Demonstrate risk management strategies
  • Work well as part of a team
  • Have enthusiasm about sharing outdoor activities with guests
  • Show good judgment and decision-making
  • Be comfortable speaking to large groups
  • Have the willingness to work weekends and holidays

To be considered for Raft Guide employment, please fill out an application here, resume, and certifications, and go to the following link to apply. Application

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Compensation and Benefits

  • Competitive Pay: $15.00 per hour
  • Tips from our amazing guests
  • Paid training
  • Family atmosphere
  • Retail Shop discounts on FBA Gear
  • Discounts on Adventures with French Broad Adventures

French Broad Adventures is a veteran-owned, inclusive, equal-opportunity employer and adventure provider. We welcome all people and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, political beliefs, parental status, veteran status, marital status, gender, or gender identity. We are committed to a workplace free of discrimination and value diversity in our employees.

Powered by JazzHR

wE86YENgOl