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On Call River Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Teton County

Seasonal River Monitor

Jackson, WY · On-site

$26.18 - $29.46/hr

Maintains daily records of outfitter use levels, types, and patterns of use; checks guides for ... AND one (1) year of recreation programming experience or river rafting experience; OR an equivalent ...

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

As of Jun 3, 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.

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.

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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,609 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Whitewater Raft Guide - Return

Whitewater Raft Guide - Return

The Outlaw Group

Kremmling, CO

$13.50 - $15.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Join the Team!

At the Outlaw Group, we believe in the adventure, and in living day to day, in what is real and in front of us. Not only do we seek to provide unforgettable experiences for our guests, but we encourage our employees to reimagine the best of Colorado's outdoor spaces and urban areas. We are adventurers, innovators, and explorers, and we look for employees that share this same passion for life. We intend to grow together, testing the boundaries of what is possible, as we constantly consider new ways to challenge ourselves and industry standards.

Job Description:

AVA Rafting & Zip Line: Raft Guides

Location(s):

Kremmling, CO. Idaho Springs, CO. Buena Vista, CO

Work Season:

Full time and Part Time, May 2026 to September 2026,
Relocation?:

Would you be moving to Colorado for this summer gig? AVA does offer some employee living accommodations at Buena Vista and Idaho Springs Outpost.

Return Pay Rate:

Starting pay for return guides is 15.56 an hour (guides returning after rookie year) with tips adding anywhere from an additional 10 to 20 dollars an hour on average. Guides returning to AVA receive pay increase relative to their years at the company and white-water skill level.

As a Raft Guide, you will be the face of our company, responsible for leading safe, educational, and fun river trips while ensuring an exceptional customer experience. A Whitewater Raft Guide is responsible for safely navigating a commercial raft down the river while managing guests, providing interpretive information, and executing swiftwater rescue techniques as needed.

Returning Guide?

AVA is looking for experienced raft guides to join our team across Colorado. If you are looking for new water and great people we are the company for you! If you have experience in class III+ whitewater, apply today.
*Experienced raft guides will need up-to date and verifiable river miles upon employment start and will be required to perform checkout runs for any new river stretches to be commercially guided with AVA*
*NOTE*This job does require onsite location in Colorado, the company does have options areas for employees to live during the summer

What You'll Do

  • Navigate rafts down a river while managing a great guest experience!

  • Maintain equipment, gear, and the work area.

  • Maintain situational awareness and readiness to help perform river rescue maneuvers if needed.

  • 2 -3 trips a day typically ~9-hour workdays

  • Having a great time outdoors with guest and coworkers!

What we Look For

  • Physically capable individuals passionate about the outdoors.

  • Strong teamwork skills.

  • People with an emphasis on customer care.

  • Experience on class III to class V whitewater.

  • Individuals with up-to-date CPR, First Aid, and other training is always a plus!

Work Availability

  • Part Time < ~30 hours

  • Full Time ~ 40 hours

  • Holidays (4th of July)

Benefits

  • The job is a service industry job meaning guest are encouraged to tip.

  • Base pay is relative to your previous time at AVA.

  • Gear discounts! AVA works with many companies in the outdoor industry, as an AVA employee you have access to discounts strictly for outdoor industry professionals across many major brands such as North face, Yeti, Patagonia, and more.

Why Apply Today?
Whether it's your love for the Rockies, soaking up the sun, meeting new friends, or trying something new - AVA offers all this as a Whitewater Raft Guide!

AVA Rafting & Zip Line is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

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