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Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Guests will have access to a variety of activities across the property, including guided hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife as well as whitewater rafting and guided fishing trips through local ...

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Rafting Guide information

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How much do rafting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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.

What is a rafting guide?

Rafting guides are trained professionals who lead and navigate groups of people on whitewater rafting trips. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants, providing instructions on paddling techniques, and reading river conditions to avoid hazards. Rafting guides also enhance the experience by sharing information about the local environment and wildlife. Their expertise is crucial for making rafting adventures both exciting and safe.

What are common challenges faced by rafting guides and how can they be managed?

Rafting Guides often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying river conditions, and managing the safety and expectations of diverse groups of participants. Effective communication, thorough pre-trip briefings, and strong situational awareness are key to addressing these challenges. Guides must be prepared to adapt routes, provide clear instructions, and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure to ensure both safety and a positive guest experience. Being proactive in equipment checks and staying updated on river conditions also help mitigate risks and keep trips running smoothly.

What is the difference between Rafting Guide vs Kayaking Instructor?

AspectRafting GuideKayaking Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, rafting guides licenseCPR, First Aid, kayaking instructor certification
Work EnvironmentRivers, outdoor adventure settings, group toursRivers, lakes, outdoor classes, individual or group instruction
Industry UsageTour operators, adventure companiesOutdoor recreation centers, adventure schools

Rafting Guides and Kayaking Instructors both work in outdoor water environments and often require similar safety certifications. However, rafting guides typically lead larger groups on rivers using rafts, while kayaking instructors focus on teaching individuals or small groups how to kayak. Both roles are essential in the outdoor adventure industry, but they differ in equipment, techniques, and specific job responsibilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a rafting guide?

To thrive as a Rafting Guide, you need strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and first aid/CPR certification, often supported by swiftwater rescue training. Familiarity with rafting equipment, river navigation tools, and communication systems like radios is essential. Outstanding leadership, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help deliver safe and enjoyable experiences for clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring guest safety, handling emergencies, and providing exceptional outdoor adventures.
More about Rafting Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Rafting Guide jobs? Cities with the most Rafting Guide job openings:
What states have the most Rafting Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Rafting Guide jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rafting Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,609 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Gauley Season River Guide- Adventures on the Gorge

Aramark

Lansing, WV • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Aramark rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 1,267 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

395th of 491 rated business services


Job description

Job Description

The River Guide II is responsible for providing exceptional and safe guide services to whitewater participants during rafting trips at Adventures on the Gorge. This is accomplished in the role through providing exceptional guest experience during their scheduled trips.

This posting is for Gauley Guides for the Gauley 2026 season. Canidates must have previous guiding expirience with a commercial log that contains expirience in guiding in Class 4/5 rapids. The first day of training will be September 11th, 2026 with the guide meeting held that Wednesday 9/11/2026. Guides should expect to arrive by Tuesday 9/9/2026.

 If you do not have the background shared in this job posting but are interested in gaining experience rafting, please reach out about guide training opportunities occuring in the spring 2027- you can send your interest to AOTG-HR@aramark.com.

Job Responsibilities
  • Arrive at scheduled time dressed and ready to work 
  • Perform pre-trip tasks as assigned by the Trip Leader and River Managers 
  • Prepare equipment at the put-in as designated by gear truck driver/trip sweep boater
  • Provide guests with specific safety instructions regarding equipment and trip plan   
  • Maintain trip order/plan established by the Trip Leader
  • Provide interesting and entertaining information about popular locations or specific points of interest.
  • Assist with post-trip jobs i.e. loading/unloading rafts, washing lunch dishes, etc.
  • Attend post trip video (if applicable)
  • Maintain a working knowledge of all products and services offered by AOTG.
  • Adheres to safety policies and procedures to ensure safety of guests.
  • Guides should test the communications equipment prior to operation.
  • Must be a knowledgeable guide for clients and provide support and reassurance.
  • Ensures security of company assets and a safe work environment through daily maintenance and housekeeping.
  • Works in conditions that involve exposure to unusual elements and extreme temperatures.
  • Maintains excellent customer service and a positive demeanor towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc.

At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice.

Qualifications

   Completion of AOTG training program or equivalent  

  • Must have current CPR/FA certification with a hands-on component
  • Training in First Aid protocols such as Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness Advanced First Aid, Wilderness EMT or EMT/Paramedic preferred 
  • Current Swift Water Rescue certification is preferred  
  • Must have extensive experience guiding in the same or related environment
    • solid Class IV/V (4/5) past experience with a commercial log is required to be considered as an applicant for the Gauley Guide role on the Gauley River with Adventures on the Gorge
  • Sit, stand, swim, and walk for varied amounts of time
  • Demonstrates interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Must be available to work flexible hours

This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Education
About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.


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About Aramark

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food, facilities, and uniform services in 19 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Industry

Hospitality services and facilities support services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US