ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Raft Guide Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

All JobsRaft Guide JobsRaft Guide Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Raft Guide information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$7

$16

$28

How much do raft guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for raft guide in Raleigh, NC is $16.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are raft guides?

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Raft Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Raft Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Raft Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Raft Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Raft Guide jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Raft Guide job openings:
Raft Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Raft Guide job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,914 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Swim Instructor- Raleigh and Apex

Swim Instructor- Raleigh and Apex

British Swim School

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Company parties
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free food & snacks
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

BRITISH SWIM SCHOOL-RALEIGH & APEX
This is the BEST PART TIME JOB OUT THERE!
WHY?
  • We schedule you around your schedule!
  • We give you PTO, even for our part time staff
  • We Pay you for your Birthday OFF
  • We Pay you time & a half on Holiday Weekends
  • We offer Monthly Bonuses & other Fun Perks!
  • We have regular staff outings like Axe Throwing and Treats for just being Awesome!
  • We are a fun crew that actually likes each other a little bit...no drama!!

We're hiring talented individuals for year round positions in North Raleigh, Wake Forest & Apex
What's it like to work for us?
  • To keep it short and sweet, we have a small and awesome company and we would like to find people to work for us that are fun to be around and are people we can rely on.
  • It's new, it's fun, it's rewarding! It's being paid to do something you love!
  • Make a Difference in a Child's Life!

The Job: Swim Instructor:
  • We provide training for anyone who fits the company culture: no previous swim experience, just bring your passion and willingness to learn!
  • We change lives. We help children reach their goals. It's a culture you want to be a part of!
  • Help us, British Swim School is on a mission to make the world a better and safer place.

Our team is filled with a variety backgrounds including: Lifeguard, Nanny, Kindergarten Teacher, Teachers Aide, Camp Counselor, Child Care, Mentor, Fitness Instructor, Coach, Substitute Teacher, Raft Guide, Babysitter, Sports Coach, Stay at Home Mom!
Check us out at BritishSwimSchool.com/Raleigh
Compensation: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Working at British Swim School is more than just a job; it's a chance to create a lasting impact that could change a child's life
As part of the British Swim School Team, you play a role in your local community, empowering others and sharing your passion. It's a chance to be part of a fun-loving team of dedicated people who are committed to promoting water safety and a lifelong love of the water.
While we teach swimming to people of all ages and abilities, most of our students are preschool and elementary-aged kids. Our instructors should like working with this age group and be good at making parents feel comfortable. It's helpful if you have experience with children or in a child-focused job, but it's not required if you can show the right attitude. The job comes with specialized training in our advanced and unique British Swim School approach.
We also have exciting opportunities with our Customer Service Team, even if you're not in the pool. These are the people committed to providing the best service in the industry. In these roles, you might talk to parents on the phone or by the pool. Wherever you are, the aim is to make everyone feel like part of the British Swim School Family as we focus on ensuring the "Survival of the Littlest."
Each franchise location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee (franchise owner). Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to British Swim School Corporate.

Apply