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On Call River Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PRP

Overnight Servers IHOP 3625

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

PRP

Overnight Cooks

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

Wing Group

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA

$20.50/hr

At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay safe while ...

PRP

Be Seen First

Cooks - 1765

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$20/hr

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

PRP

Server - IHOP 1772

Pocatello, ID · On-site

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

PRP

All shifts' Servers - 1774

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

PRP

Be Seen First

Cooks - 690

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19.99 - $22/hr

... river rafting, and more. Peak Restaurant Partners is committed to making a difference in our ... Every decision we make is guided by our Mission Statement and Guiding Principles. We strive to make ...

RIVERSPORT FOUNDATION

RAFT GUIDE

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

... rafting department, including raft guiding and river guarding along the bank. • Ensure thorough communication with other staff members, management, and entire RIVERSPORT Rapid's team while on site ...

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All JobsOn Call River Rafting Guide Jobs

On Call River Rafting Guide information

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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.

Multi-Day Raft Guide

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

Mccall, ID • On-site

$184 - $220/day

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Wet Planet is looking for experienced multi-day raft guides to join our team on the Owyhee River in Oregon, and the Salmon River in Idaho.

Our multi-day raft guide team enjoys making it possible for guests to experience the magic of a multi-day wilderness river adventure. In addition to having prior rowing experience, multi-day guides must prioritize guest care and risk management in order to create seamless, memorable and joyful river adventure experiences for our guests. As the face of Wet Planet, our guides enjoy working with a team of fellow river professionals to make sure our guests have amazing experiences both on the river and at camp.

Wet Planet

Each year, many of our guests and team members return to enjoy the abundance of beautiful rivers we raft and kayak in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Our headquarters is located on the banks of the White Salmon River in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, surrounded by a whitewater paradise and an incredible community of boaters. It's the perfect location for raft guides and kayakers to work and play in the Pacific Northwest. Our multi-day trips are operated in Oregon and Idaho.
Qualifications & Experience:

  • Previous commercial multi-day experience on Class III whitewater
  • Professional appearance, great communication skills, a team player with a positive mindset
  • You love to share the river with guests and interpret natural and human history
  • You prioritize guest care and risk management
  • Current Wilderness First Responder & CPR certification
  • Current River Rescue Certification (Sierra Rescue, ACA Swiftwater, or equivalent)

Multi-Day Season: Our Owyhee season is mid-April through mid-May, and our Main Salmon season is mid-June through mid-September.

Availability:

  • Full-time, full season: Mid April through the second week of September
  • Full-time, peak season: Mid-June through the second week of September
  • Part-time, peak season: Must be available for a minimum of 2 trips in July and/or August

Many of our river team combine work in multiple disciples and enjoy the variety of work throughout the season. For those with skills in paddle rafting, rowing, and/or kayaking, work is available April-September, combining day-trips, multi-day trips, and kayak instruction.

Wet Planet Perks:

  • Access to free trips and courses, and discounted professional training (river rescue courses, medical courses, ACA instructor course, etc.)
  • Cross training for other job areas & opportunities within Wet Planet
  • Discounts on food, drinks, and merchandise in the Wet Planet store and espresso bar
  • Industry Pro Purchase program
  • Free rafting and kayak courses for friends & family
  • Access to local housing options
  • Accrued Sick Leave
  • Retirement plan after two years of employment

Compensation:

  • Compensation by day, Range: $184-$220, based on experience, training & certifications, and role (trainee, guide or sr trip leader)

Combine your desire to play outside with your professional skillset and experience join our team!