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Rafting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inflatable Solutions

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay safe while ...

Inflatable Solutions

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay safe while ...

Wing Group

Heat Seam Sealer Operator

Arcata, CA · On-site

$20.50/hr

At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay safe while ...

Inflatable Solutions

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay ...

Wing Group

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay ...

Wing Group

Human Resources Business Partner

Arcata, CA · On-site

$71K - $110K/yr

... rafting guides, and kayakers. Our mission is to support professionals and adventurers alike with equipment that performs with lightweight speed, agility, and confidence on the water. WHAT WE ARE ...

Inflatable Solutions

Senior Accountant

Arcata, CA · On-site

$71K - $85K/yr

WHO WE ARE At Wing Inflatables we have dedicated ourselves over the past 30 years to giving rescue workers, the coast guard, Navy SEALs, river rafting guides, and kayakers, the confidence to stay ...

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Rafting Guide information

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$16

$22

How much do rafting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 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 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 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 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 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.
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Rafting Guide jobs near you

Reservations and Guest Service Specialist

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

White Salmon, WA

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Wet Planet is looking for a Reservations & Guest Service Specialist to join our small office team for the 2026 season!

Reservations & Guest Services specialists love coordinating adventures and getting people outside. With each call, our guests will hear the love for the experiences we create at Wet Planet.

For many of our guests, the Wet Planet experience starts with a call or email to the Wet Planet office, which gives them the knowledge and confidence to pursue their rafting or kayaking adventure. With a discerning ear and knowledge about our trips and courses, you'll be able to answer questions, help folks choose the right adventure, and do your best to turn each inquiring call into a new Wet Planet guest and friend.

The Wet Planet Office is more than just an office - it's a dynamic team that works cohesively with the rest of the operation in the base and on the river. While the experience starts here, the office team is also very in tune with the daily logistics of all our trips and courses. From welcoming guests upon arrival to briefing river guides on group specifics, you're involved in all aspects of our trips and guest's experiences. There is never a dull moment in the office!

Wet Planet

Each year, many of our guests and team members return to enjoy the abundance of beautiful rivers we raft and kayak in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Our headquarters is located on the banks of the White Salmon River in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, surrounded by a whitewater paradise and an incredible community of boaters. It's the perfect location for raft guides and kayakers to work and play in the Pacific Northwest.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Previous work experience, ideally in the hospitality & service industry, outdoor industry, guest services, or related field
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Administrative and sales experience
  • Have a general interest in the outdoors and more specifically, whitewater (or desire to learn if you're not a whitewater person!)
  • Desire to work in the seasonal outdoor industry
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced and busy environment
  • Be proficient with the Google drive platform, Microsoft word, and basic Excel

Availability: Full-time, including weekends and holidays, from March/April through September. (5- to 6-month position).

NOTE: This is a seasonal position beginning in the spring (starting potentially as early as March).

Wet Planet Perks:

  • Access to free trips and courses, and discounted professional training
  • Cross training for other job areas & opportunities within Wet Planet
  • Discounts on food, drinks, and merchandise in the Wet Planet store and espresso bar
  • Industry Pro Purchase program
  • Free rafting and kayak courses for friends & family, pending availability.
  • Accrued Sick Leave
  • Retirement plan after two years of employment

Compensation:

  • Hourly, Range: $20-26, based on relevant work experience.

Combine your desire to play outside with your professional skillset and experience - join our team!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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