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River Guide Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to ...

... guide non-standard solutions, represent KRPI in customer-facing technical discussions, mentor ... Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will ...

... guide non-standard solutions, represent KRPI in customer-facing technical discussions, mentor ... Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will ...

... guide non-standard solutions, represent KRPI in customer-facing technical discussions, mentor ... Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will ...

... guide non-standard solutions, represent KRPI in customer-facing technical discussions, mentor ... Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will ...

... guide non-standard solutions, represent KRPI in customer-facing technical discussions, mentor ... Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will ...

Personal Banker-River Road

Eugene, OR

$19.25 - $23.50/hr

... guide customers in adopting capabilities that enhance their banking experience * Ability to ... This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship Posting Location(s): * 2065 River Rd EUGENE, OR ...

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River Guide information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do river guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for river guide in Oregon is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a river guide?

River guides are professionals who lead and assist individuals or groups on river trips, such as rafting, kayaking, or canoeing excursions. They are responsible for the safety, instruction, and overall experience of the participants while navigating rivers, often in remote or challenging conditions. River guides possess knowledge of river routes, safety procedures, and rescue techniques, and they typically provide insights about the natural environment and local history. Their job also includes preparing equipment, giving safety briefings, and sometimes cooking or setting up camp during multi-day trips.

What does a river guide do?

As a river guide, you assist people on rafting trips down rivers and rapids. During each trip or tour, you must maneuver the craft on water safely. River guides frequently work with inexperienced passengers, so the ability to manage their behavior and keep the entire group safe is essential in this role. Most river guides work with tour companies and provide several trips each day. Other duties include loading and preparing rafts and handling reservations. Fulfilling the responsibilities of this job requires attention to detail as well as strong interpersonal, leadership, and wilderness skills.

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

To thrive as a River Guide, you need strong knowledge of river navigation, safety procedures, and first aid, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder or Swiftwater Rescue. Familiarity with rafting equipment, GPS devices, and communication systems is typically required. Excellent leadership, communication, and customer service skills help build trust and enhance the guest experience. These abilities are crucial for ensuring both the safety and enjoyment of clients in dynamic and potentially hazardous river environments.

What are some of the most common challenges river guides face during a typical trip?

River Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, fluctuating river levels, and ensuring the safety of guests with varying experience levels. Effective communication and strong leadership are crucial, especially when navigating technical rapids or responding to unexpected situations. Guides must also balance providing an enjoyable experience with managing the logistical aspects of trips, such as meal preparation and equipment maintenance.

What is the difference between River Guide vs Kayak Instructor?

AspectRiver GuideKayak Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, River Guide CertificationCPR, First Aid, Kayak Instructor Certification
Work EnvironmentRivers, outdoor water settings, group toursIndoor/outdoor pools, lakes, rivers, teaching sessions
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, tour operatorsRecreation centers, outdoor schools, adventure companies

River Guides and Kayak Instructors both require water safety certifications and work in outdoor water environments. However, River Guides typically lead group trips on rivers, focusing on navigation and safety, while Kayak Instructors teach kayaking skills in pools or lakes. Both roles are essential in the outdoor recreation industry but differ mainly in their work setting and primary responsibilities.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for River Guide jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most River Guide job openings:

What are popular job titles related to River Guide jobs in OR?

For River Guide jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various River Guide job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,535 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Pro Tem Instructor (Anthropology) - Open Pool

University Of Oregon

Eugene, OR • On-site

$13.75 - $15.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


University Of Oregon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Pro Tem Instructor (Anthropology) - Open Pool

Apply now Job no: 536920
Work type: Faculty - Pro Tempore
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Instruction, Anthropology

Department: CAS Anthropology
Rank: Instructor
Annual Basis: 9 Month

Review of Applications Begins

Applications will be reviewed as needs arise

Special Instructions to Applicants

Complete applications must include:
A current CV/resume.
Names and contact information for three (30 professional references. Candidates will be notified prior to references being contacted.

Department Summary

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is the intellectual hub of the University of Oregon, serving nearly two-thirds of all students. Home to more than 800 faculty across 50+ departments and programs in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, CAS is a dynamic and interdisciplinary academic community. Our faculty and advisors work closely with students to develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and clear communication skills to address real-world challenges. CAS staff and managers are integral to this work, playing vital roles in supporting academic excellence and advancing the mission of both the College and the University.
The Department of Anthropology is dedicated to better understanding human cultural and biological origins and diversity through education and research. The faculty is committed to excellence in teaching and to the advancement of knowledge through local, national, and international programs of research. As anthropologists, we are engaged in understanding recent and historical developments in the world at large, and we also seek to bring anthropological perspectives to bear on the problems of a modern global society. The department embraces a broad intellectual pluralism where different theoretical and methodological approaches are recognized and valued.

Position Summary

The Department of Anthropology at the University of Oregon seeks to establish a pool of qualified candidates interested in Pro Tem Instructor positions. Depending on departmental needs and candidate qualifications, Pro Tem Instructors may teach lower or upper division undergraduate courses. Instructional assignments may include Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, World Archaeology, and Human Growth and Development, or other courses.
Positions are limited duration appointments potentially renewable for up to a total of three years, based on programmatic need, funding, and performance. Screening of applications will take place as positions become available and continue until positions are filled.

Minimum Requirements

Master's Degree in Anthropology or related field.
One (1) year post-secondary instructional experience.

Professional Competencies

Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Ability to contribute to institutional diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Anthropology or related field
Experience teaching undergraduate courses in Anthropology


All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.

In compliance with federal law, the University of Oregon prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and services. The Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report is available online.

Advertised: August 7, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: August 7, 2027 Pacific Daylight Time

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