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Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Type Part-time, Temporary Description JOB TITLE : Adventure Center Guide JOB SUMMARY : Join the ... ski/snowboard programs. You'll guide, assist, and energize guests while ensuring their safety and ...

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Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide information

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$7

$19

$39

How much do part time backcountry ski guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for part 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.

What are part time backcountry ski guides?

Part time backcountry ski guides are professionals who lead groups or individuals on skiing excursions in remote, ungroomed, and natural mountain areas, but do so on a part-time or seasonal basis rather than full-time. They are responsible for planning safe routes, assessing avalanche risks, providing instruction on backcountry skiing techniques, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of clients. These guides typically possess strong skiing skills, avalanche safety training, and a deep knowledge of the local terrain. Many work for guiding companies, outdoor adventure organizations, or as independent contractors during the ski season.

What is the difference between Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide vs Part Time Ski Instructor?

AspectPart Time Backcountry Ski GuidePart Time Ski Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Avalanche Safety, Guide CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Teaching Certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote, rugged backcountry terrain, variable snow conditionsResort slopes, ski schools, controlled environments
Employer & Industry UsageOutdoor adventure companies, ski resorts with backcountry programsSki resorts, ski schools, indoor and outdoor settings

While both roles involve skiing and safety skills, a Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide specializes in guiding clients in remote, off-piste terrain requiring avalanche awareness and outdoor survival skills. In contrast, a Part Time Ski Instructor primarily teaches skiing techniques on groomed slopes within resort settings. The certifications and work environments differ, reflecting their unique responsibilities in the skiing industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide, you need advanced skiing ability, strong knowledge of avalanche safety, wilderness first aid training, and relevant guiding certifications such as AIARE or AMGA. Familiarity with avalanche transceivers, GPS devices, and snow science tools is typically required. Excellent communication, decision-making under pressure, and leadership skills help ensure group safety and a positive client experience. These skills are crucial for navigating challenging terrain, managing risk, and providing memorable and safe adventures for clients in remote environments.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time backcountry ski guides, and how can I prepare for them?

Part-time backcountry ski guides often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying client skill levels, and route-finding in unfamiliar terrain. To prepare, it's important to maintain strong avalanche safety knowledge, stay physically fit, and continuously practice navigation and emergency response skills. Building strong communication and decision-making abilities will also help you effectively lead diverse groups and ensure everyone's safety. Collaborating with other guides and participating in ongoing training can further enhance your readiness for the unique demands of this role.
What cities are hiring for Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs? Cities with the most Part 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 Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide jobs include:
Infographic showing various Part Time Backcountry Ski Guide job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

$20 - $24/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Make a Difference Today!

Do you thrive in the great outdoors? Love being active and working with youth? Are some of your best memories from hiking, camping, climbing, or water sports? If you believe kids learn more from hands-on outdoor experiences than sitting in a classroom, and you are looking for a flexible work schedule, then this is your calling!

Arc Experience provides before and after school programs for youth throughout Southern California in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Imperial Valley.

We highly value our employees, and we invest in them by providing opportunities to expand their career and life skills. Arc is looking for motivated and compassionate people who want to expand their career working with youth and have a desire to give back to the community.

Arc Experience's Outdoor Adventure division is seeking enthusiastic Outdoor Adventure Guides to inspire and empower youth through nature-based activities. No need to be a backcountry expert-we will train you in the outdoor skills you need!

As a guide, you will lead team-building challenges, obstacle courses, and offsite adventures like kayaking and biking, helping students build confidence, develop social-emotional skills, and discover their potential-all while having an unforgettable time outdoors!

If you are ready to turn your love for adventure into a meaningful job,join our team today!

Qualifications & Experience

  • 2+ years of experience working with K-12 students.
  • Understanding of outdoor education or leadership development programs.
  • Experience in adventure activities is highly preferred. Our most common programs include:
    • Hiking
    • Biking
    • Kayaking
    • Rock climbing
    • Team-building activities
  • Ability to personally participate in outdoor activities.
  • Strong leadership and behavior management skills, overseeing up to 20 students.
  • Encouraging and patient approach when working with youth.

Safety & Compliance Requirements

  • Must create and maintain a physically and mentally safe environment for students, fostering personal growth, confidence, self-reliance, and leadership.
  • Laser-focused on participant safety and certified in first aid, CPR, and basic wilderness safety (or willing to complete training).
  • Ability to drive vehicles (with and without student passengers) per Arc’s requirements. You will be trained to operate a vehicle towing a climbing wall and must participate in occasional refresher training.
  • College transcripts that show you have 48+ college credit units completed OR you take and pass an academic proficiency exam.
  • To get a TB test (and provide proof that it is negative) and pass a Live Scan background check.
  • You will be required to take CPR and first aid training or provide proof that you have been certified within 12 months.
  • English - Spanish bilingual speaker highly preferred.
  • Valid California driver’s license required (Commercial Driver’s License a plus!).

Additional Expectations

  • Available to work both weekdays and weekends.
  • Some administrative paperwork is required for each outing.
  • Willingness to assist with event prep, post-event tasks, cleanup, and inventory.
  • Familiarity with Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is preferred.
  • Open to sharing ideas for improving programs and logistics.
  • Bilingual English-Spanish speakers will have a competitive edge!
  • High school diploma or GED required (Bachelor’s degree highly preferred).

Pay Rate & Benefits

  • Position Type: Part-time, non-exempt
  • Reports To: Director of Outdoor Education Operations
  • Compensation: $20.00 – $24.00 per hour (based on experience & skills)

If the school you will be working at requires a Covid-19 vaccination, then you must provide documentation that shows you are fully Covid-19 vaccinated.

Perks of Being an Arc Outdoor Adventure Guide

  • Earned paid sick leave
  • All equipment provided for events and activities
  • Company-sponsored certification assistance for long-term guides
  • Arc-branded outdoor wear
  • Ongoing training & professional development opportunities

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Reliably commute before starting work (Required)

Arc is an Equal Opportunity Employer.