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Raft Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raft

Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Raft Company Website

Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$56 - $76.75/hr

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Raft Company Website

Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$56.75 - $77.75/hr

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Raft Company Website

Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$56 - $76.75/hr

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Raft Company Website

Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$56 - $76.75/hr

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Raft Company Website

Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$56.25 - $77/hr

Raft ( is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S ... Prepare technical documentation, implementation guides, architecture documentation, and operational ...

Oracle

Senior Principal Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $203K/yr

... Raft, Paxos, or Multi-Paxos for distributed consistency, Transaction Management (MVCC ... Demonstrates strong mentorship abilities, effectively guiding and developing teams while aligning ...

All JobsRaft Guide JobsRaft Guide Jobs in California

Raft Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$17

$28

How much do raft guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for raft guide in California is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a raft guide?

Raft guides are trained professionals who lead and navigate groups of people on river rafting trips. They are responsible for the safety of their passengers, steering the raft, giving instructions, and ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience. Raft guides are knowledgeable about river conditions, first aid, and rescue techniques. They often work for outdoor adventure companies and must have strong communication and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a raft guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Raft Guide, you need strong paddling skills, river navigation knowledge, and first aid/CPR certification, often supported by completion of professional guide training. Familiarity with safety equipment, rescue techniques, and communication radios is essential. Leadership, situational awareness, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are critical soft skills for guiding diverse groups safely. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring client safety, managing emergencies, and providing enjoyable outdoor experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by raft guides during a typical season?

Raft Guides often encounter rapidly changing river conditions, unpredictable weather, and the varying skill levels of guests. Managing safety while ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience requires strong communication and quick decision-making. Additionally, guides need to maintain physical stamina for long days on the water and may be expected to assist with equipment maintenance or camp setup, depending on the outfitter. Teamwork and adaptability are essential to handle the dynamic nature of the job and to support both guests and fellow guides.

What is the difference between Raft Guide vs Kayak Instructor?

AspectRaft GuideKayak Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, rafting guides licenseWilderness First Aid, CPR, kayaking instructor certification
Work EnvironmentRivers, outdoor water bodies, group settingsRivers, lakes, indoor/outdoor training facilities
Industry UsageTourism, adventure sports, outdoor recreationOutdoor sports education, adventure tourism
Common Search/ComparisonRaft Guide vs Kayak Instructor

Both roles involve water-based outdoor activities and require certifications like First Aid and CPR. Raft Guides typically work on larger group trips on rivers, focusing on safety and navigation, while Kayak Instructors often teach individuals or small groups, emphasizing technique and skills. The work environments overlap but differ in equipment and focus, making them related but distinct roles within outdoor water sports.

How do you become a raft guide?

To become a raft guide, individuals typically need to complete safety training, learn river navigation skills, and obtain certifications such as First Aid and CPR. Gaining experience through training programs or working as a trainee helps develop the necessary skills for guiding and ensuring safety on the water.

How much do raft guides make?

Raft guides typically earn between $200 and $400 per day during the peak season, with annual salaries ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and the number of trips guided. Many guides also receive tips from clients, which can significantly increase their overall income. Certifications in water safety and swiftwater rescue can enhance earning potential.

Is it hard to be a raft guide?

Being a raft guide requires physical fitness, strong swimming skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations on the water. It often involves early mornings, long hours, and working in outdoor conditions, but training and certifications like CPR and swiftwater rescue can help prepare for the job. The difficulty varies based on experience and the complexity of the river environment.

What are popular job titles related to Raft Guide jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Raft Guide jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Raft Guide jobs in California are:

Raft Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Raft Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,448 per year, or $17 per hour.

Peak- Outdoor Trip Leader I_II_III

Associated Students, Inc.

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $18.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Key responsibilities

  • Manage operational and participant needs for outdoor trips, camps, and clinics, including planning and implementation of activities.

  • Oversee group safety, risk management, and ensure all trip operational requirements are met.

  • Lead outdoor activities, manage equipment, and facilitate participant instruction and group dynamics.

Job description

Description
SUMMARY: This is a year-round position ranging in a variety of duties. The Outdoor Trip Leader is responsible for managing operational and participant needs for Peak Adventures Youth Explorer/Expedition Camp, Outdoor Trips, and Clinics from both on campus and off-site locations. The Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips, Clinics) I/II/III oversees the planning and implementation of trips, is responsible for participants of all ages, provides exemplary customer service, ensure risk management decisions, and meet all trip operational requirements are met.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) I:
  • Safely perform job duties
  • Knowledgeable in and ability to follow Outdoor Trip standard policies and procedures and Emergency Action Plans
  • Provide basic support during Explorer Camp, Outdoor Trips, and/or Clinics while upholding Peak Adventures policies and procedures and following the identified standard operating procedures
  • Ensure completed documentation for participants and other compliance reporting
  • Oversee group dynamics such as participants interactions within the group as well as interactions between participants and others outside the group to promote a positive experience for all
  • Properly load and unload outdoor gear and supplies to/from van roof rack, gear trailer, etc.
  • Communicate with Outdoor Adventure Manager effectively and on a frequent basis
  • Organization and management of outdoor trip equipment including but limited to maintenance, organization, inventory and usage tracking
  • Assist front desk staff with prepping and distributing rental equipment

Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) II:
  • Operation of a 10-passenger van and gear trailer. Perform a safety inspection on assigned vehicles to be used. Notify supervisor of any vehicle deficiencies. Follow all California State Rules and Regulations surrounding vehicle operation
  • Manage group travel in front and backcountry settings
  • Lead Pre-Trip Meetings
  • Assess and make decisions about risk management in the field
  • Understand and adhere to requirements and restrictions for trip location
  • Manage first aid needs
  • Leading skill instruction and demonstrating proficiency in outdoor activities that include but are not limited to LNT etiquette, hiking, camping, paddling, climbing, rafting, snowshoeing, caving, bouldering and backpacking
  • Leading Summer Explorer and Expedition Youth camp trips
  • Correctly manage and facilitate participants on trips or clinics, including tracking rosters and ensuring a safe return to campus

Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) III:
  • Able to lead expert skilled instruction in outdoor activities that include but are not limited to LNT etiquette, hiking, camping, paddling, climbing, rafting, snowshoeing, caving, bouldering and backpacking
  • Provide comprehensive training support to participants, helping them acquire outdoor skills and knowledge
  • Mentor and support lower-level OTL's in their growth and development within the program
  • Ability to demonstrate expert and sound judgement in highly variable outdoor settings and condition assessment, including anticipation of weather and it's effect on environment

CORE COMPETENCIES
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with other staff, and public
  • Demonstrating strong interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Ability to be flexible and adaptive
  • Ability to work well with other staff
  • Understanding and adherence to safe operating practices
  • Ability to manage large groups
  • Ability to confidently and accurately manage risk
  • Ability to serve as a role model for children
  • Ability to speak publicly in front of youth
  • Ability to work well with other staff and camp partners
  • Strong worth ethic and ability to work long hours
  • Timeliness and ability to maintain commitment to camp and trip schedule

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma and 18 years of age
  • CPR Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Wilderness First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Swift Water Rescue Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Demonstrated competency in various outdoor skills
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as well as overtime and double time
  • California Driver's license
  • Ability to meet ASI driving requirements
  • Availability to work summer hours Monday-Friday 7 AM-6 PM
  • Availability to work 2-6 Outdoor Trips per semester/season of school year
  • Complete Peak Adventures New Hire Orientation (up to 3 weekends of certifications, and a 5-day week of pre-youth camp training)
    • *Online certifications will not be accepted
    • **CPR/First Aid, Wilderness First Aid, Swift Water Rescue certifications and raft guide school will be provided

PERFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Enrolled in a minimum of 6 units at Sacramento State; maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA overall (for Student Assistant incumbents)
  • California Commercial driver's license (Class C or higher) with a passenger endorsement
  • Other outdoor professional certifications, ie. WFR (Wilderness First Responder)
  • Experience on a variety of outdoor trips with a diverse outdoor skill set
  • 1 or more years of trip leading experience
  • Experience working with youth

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to fingers, handle, feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. The employee must:
  • Frequently lift and/or move up to 60 pounds or 100 pounds assisted.
  • Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and be prepared for both heat and cold
  • Must be able to climb, kneel, squat, reach overhead
  • Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces
  • Must be able to meet minimum physical requirements for individual activity
  • Must be able to drive for up to 3 hours in one day
  • Must be able to maintain a high level of focus for long periods

WORK ENVIRONMENT (Choose one only)
  • Outdoors exposed to rain, heat and cold temperature for 24 hours a day

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