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On Call River Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Artius Solutions

RN - MED SURG - NIGHTS

Moab, UT · On-site

$69.50/hr

Overtime Rate (after 40 hrs/week): $69.50/hour * On-Call Rate: $2/hour pager * Call Back Rate: $69 ... river rafting and rock climbing. Compliance & Conditions * Pre-employment drug screen and ...

Wing Group

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE 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 ...

Inflatable Solutions

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA

$80K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE 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 ...

Inflatable Solutions

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA · On-site

$71K - $85K/yr

WHO WE ARE 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 ...

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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:
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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.
Salmon River Adventure Base Guide Staff

Salmon River Adventure Base Guide Staff

Youth Dynamics

Grangeville, ID • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Youth Dynamics' vision is to see youth transformed by the power of Christ, integrated into the local church, and impacting their world for Him. This seasonal ministry position exists to support this vision by leading youth into opportunities to experience God's creation through adventures and connecting those experiences to real-life situations they are facing.

Youth Dynamics is seeking to hire individuals with an appetite for adventure, love for the outdoors, and desire to partner with God's heart for missions this summer. Individuals who are passionate, dynamic, teachable, and committed will make valuable additions to our guide team. Candidates should be excited to work hard behind the scenes, and learn how to weave technical outdoor leadership skills together with God's heart for missions.

If you want to partner with this vision for youth to experience and know Christ and community in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, this is the role for you!

At our Grangeville, Idaho Base, Summer Staff have the unique opportunity to spend most of their field time guiding donor trips for adult supporters and families on the Lower Salmon River. The base in Grangeville exists to help current and future supporters catch the vision for adventure ministry, and as a valued member of the guide team, you have a front-row seat in that mission-ministering to participants and sharing what God is doing through YD.


Key Responsibilities and Expectations

  • Learn to guide adults and families on a variety of wilderness activities, focused mostly on multi-day whitewater rafting trips on the Lower Salmon River
  • Work alongside seasoned staff to design ministry programs
  • Facilitate group activities and discussions
  • Prepare, plan and execute logistical details for adventure trips
  • Two full summer commitments: exceptions may apply, season dates vary by location

Reports to: Adventure Base Manager


Locations available: Grangeville, ID

Qualifications:

  • 18+ years of age or older
  • Passion for sharing about Jesus
  • Willingness to guide and serve groups made up primarily of adult ministry supporters and and their families.
  • Willingness and ability to learn and adapt
  • High level of (or desire to develop) relational skills
  • Desire and ability to effectively work in an outdoor environment
  • Strong work ethic
  • Sufficient level of physical fitness to guide extended backcountry rafting trips
  • Willingness to raise financial support to cover ministry expenses and summer salary:
    • Grangeville (Salmon River Base): Salary only


Compensation - The Support Raising Journey:

Youth Dynamics partners with Via Generosity (www.viagenerosity.org) to offer the best and most updated training on raising personal support. You will be provided with a personal support raising coach as well as all of the necessary training and resources to successfully:

  • Build a team of individuals to partner with you as a summer missionary
  • Raise 100% of salary and necessary ministry expenses to meet your financial goals
    • Staff hires set their own support raising goals according to their financial need
    • Summer staff take home, on average, $1,000-4,000 from their ministry partner donations, although some raise as much as $9000.
  • Best-in-class training to develop financial vitality

Apply