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Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Ability Center

Raft Guide

Moab, UT · On-site

$20/hr

Rafting Senior Manager Location: Moab, UT Schedule: Variable; weekends, nights and holiday work as ... Guides will work in a team to facilitate all aspects of the trip experience, including trip ...

RIVERSPORT FOUNDATION

RAFT GUIDE

Oklahoma City, OK

The Raft Guide is responsible for delivery of a high quality, safe, fun, and entertaining rafting experience for 6-7 guests at a time in varying environmental conditions as dictated by the unique ...

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How much do rafting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rafting Guide, and why are they important?

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.

What are some common challenges faced by Rafting Guides during a typical trip, and how can they be managed effectively?

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 are rafting guides?

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 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.

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Rafting Guide jobs near you
Raft Guide

Raft Guide

National Ability Center

Moab, UT • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Type: Part-time Seasonal, Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Supervisor: Rafting Senior Manager
Location: Moab, UT
Schedule: Variable; weekends, nights and holiday work as required
Compensation: Day and overnight rates (starting at $110/day and $150/overnight); hourly rates (starting at $20 an hour) depending on experience
Guide whitewater. Empower people. Live the river life.
The National Ability Center is looking for adventurous, mission-driven Raft Guides to lead inclusive whitewater trips on the Green and Colorado Rivers. This seasonal role blends outdoor leadership, adaptive recreation, and unforgettable canyon experiences in Moab, Utah. As one of the largest non-profit outdoor therapeutic recreational programs in the world, our team is dedicated to the national movement of building an Adaptive Nation. From day trips to multi-day canyon expeditions, you'll help participants push boundaries, build confidence, and experience the magic of the river - often for the first time.
UPDATE 5/19/2026 : We are looking for additional part-time raft guides. All full-time seasonal raft guide positions have been filled.
Job Summary:
Raft Guides are responsible for guiding one to five-day whitewater rafting trips on class I-IV rivers for people with disabilities. Guides will work in a team to facilitate all aspects of the trip experience, including trip preparation, river guiding, facilitation of activities, environmental education, and trip de-rigging. The season runs through mid-October depending on water conditions.
Essential Duties:
  • Lead paddle and oar rig crews rafts through class I-III rapids on sections of the Green and Colorado rivers including but not limited to: The Fisher Towers, Ruby/Horsethief, Desolation Canyon, Gates of Lodore, Cataract Canyon, and Westwater Canyon.
  • Lead instructional talks regarding safety and leave no trace camping techniques.
  • Teach participants about the natural and human history of the Colorado Plateau and Colorado River.
  • Ensure that trips utilize above par safety procedures.
  • Assist with food packing, preparation and clean up.
  • Organize, maintain, and help repair program equipment.
  • Adapt equipment to enable participants with special needs to fully participate.
  • Drive and help maintain trucks with trailers.
  • Assist in trip preparation, planning, implementation, and follow-up.
  • Attend outreach and special events when necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be able to start April 15, 2026 and work through mid-October 2026.
  • Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR/AED (through ARC or AHA) certifications.
  • Current driver's license with clean driving record.
  • Be able to maintain a Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) physical, paid for by the NAC.
  • Be able to pass a background check.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. We do not sponsor employment visas or other immigration processes to attain or maintain employment eligibility.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in the outdoor industry or adaptive recreation.
  • Experience or basic knowledge of white-water rafting.
  • Experience working with people with disabilities.
  • Ability to drive a vehicle with a trailer.
  • Experience working with volunteers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to lead groups in an outdoor setting.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Problem solving basic issues & ability to work independently.
  • Demonstrates attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated history of responsibility, dependability, and maturity.
  • Strong work ethic to accommodate multiple responsibilities and shifting priorities in a quick-paced environment.
  • Ability to prioritize work effectively and efficiently under pressure.
  • Ability to positively receive and provide job coaching for personal development.
  • Demonstrated ability and willingness to work productively and collaboratively within a team.
  • Commitment to a positive, fun, and team-oriented working environment while promoting the NAC Values.

Working Conditions:
  • Able/willing to work long hours in temperatures which regularly exceed 100 degrees.
  • Able/willing to lift and carry objects weighing up to 75 lbs.
  • Able/willing to work irregular hours with a schedule that changes often.

Benefits:
  • Potential for complimentary housing in Moab, UT (full-time positions only)
  • ACA Swiftwater Rescue Training
  • Partial certification reimbursement
  • Access to Pro deals

Salary Description
$20/hour, with overnight rates for multi-day trips

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