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Raft Guide Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Outlaw Group

Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Moab, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

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 ...

The Outlaw Group

Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Moab, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

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 ...

French Broad Adventures

River-Raft Guide

Asheville, NC · On-site

Complete FBA Raft Guide training and check-out process * Demonstrate excellent customer service ... Demonstrate risk management strategies * Work well as part of a team * Have enthusiasm about ...

The Outlaw Group

Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Moab, UT · On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

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 ...

French Broad Adventures

River-Raft Guide

Asheville, NC · On-site

$15/hr

Complete FBA Raft Guide training and check-out process * Demonstrate excellent customer service ... Demonstrate risk management strategies * Work well as part of a team * Have enthusiasm about ...

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Raft Guide Manager information

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$27.5K

$84.2K

$168K

How much do raft guide manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for raft guide manager in the United States is $84,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a raft guide manager?

A Raft Guide Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and safety of rafting activities at an outdoor adventure company or rafting outfitter. They supervise and train raft guides, coordinate trip schedules, ensure all equipment is well-maintained, and enforce safety protocols. Raft Guide Managers also handle customer service, manage risk assessments, and may step in as a guide when necessary. Their role is vital for ensuring both the safety of guests and the smooth running of rafting operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a raft guide manager?

To thrive as a Raft Guide Manager, you need strong leadership, river navigation expertise, and first aid/CPR certification, often supported by extensive guiding experience and relevant safety training. Familiarity with rescue equipment, trip scheduling software, and risk management protocols is typically required. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills help coordinate teams and ensure positive client experiences. These abilities are crucial to maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and high-quality service in dynamic and potentially hazardous environments.

What are the main challenges a raft guide manager faces during peak rafting season?

During peak rafting season, a Raft Guide Manager often faces challenges such as efficiently scheduling guides to meet fluctuating demand, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed, and managing the logistics of equipment and trip timing. Additionally, maintaining high morale among staff during long, demanding days and addressing any customer concerns quickly is crucial. Collaborating closely with guides, support staff, and sometimes even local authorities is essential to keep operations running smoothly and safely.

What cities are hiring for Raft Guide Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Raft Guide Manager job openings:

What states have the most Raft Guide Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Raft Guide Manager jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Raft Guide Manager jobs?

For Raft Guide Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Raft Guide Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,185 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Whitewater Raft Guide - Return

Kremmling, CO

The Outlaw Group
See more jobs at The Outlaw Groupexternal

$13.50 - $15.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • 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.

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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