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River Rafting Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Source Medical, LLC.

Neurology Physician

Columbus, GA

$286K - $358K/yr

Located along the Chattahoochee River, the area is known for outdoor recreation including hiking, rafting, and biking. With close proximity to Atlanta and Auburn, Columbus provides convenient access ...

The Medicus Firm

Gastroenterology Physician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$384K/yr

World-class whitewater rafting, hiking, paddleboarding, golf, fishing, and river activities right in your backyard. * Cultural & Culinary Scene : Historic architecture, museums, military heritage ...

The Medicus Firm

Gastroenterology Physician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$384K/yr

World-class whitewater rafting, hiking, paddleboarding, golf, fishing, and river activities right in your backyard. * Cultural & Culinary Scene : Historic architecture, museums, military heritage ...

Source Medical, LLC.

Urology Physician

Columbus, GA

Directly across the Chattahoochee River, Columbus has a classically restored and lively downtown ... There is something for everyone in Columbus, from biking and white-water rafting, to geocaching ...

The Medicus Firm

Cardiology Physician

Columbus, GA

$50K/yr

... Chattahoochee River. * Outdoor Recreation: Whitewater rafting, hiking, paddleboarding, golf, and much more! * Cultural & Culinary Hub: The city's history as a major textile and military hub ...

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River Rafting information

See Georgia salary details

$8

$13

$18

How much do river rafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for river rafting in Georgia is $13.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.15 and $12.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is river rafting?

River rafting is an outdoor recreational activity that involves navigating a river or other bodies of water in an inflatable raft. It is often done on whitewater or rough waters to provide an adventurous and thrilling experience. Participants work together to paddle and steer the raft through rapids and obstacles, making it a team-oriented and physically engaging sport. River rafting can vary in difficulty, and trips are usually led by experienced guides to ensure safety. It is popular among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a River Rafting Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a River Rafting Guide, you need strong paddling skills, knowledge of river safety, and typically certifications in first aid, CPR, and swiftwater rescue. Familiarity with equipment such as rafts, throw bags, and communication devices is essential, along with the ability to read river conditions. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides manage groups and ensure guest safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for handling emergencies, ensuring enjoyable experiences, and maintaining safety standards on the water.

What is the difference between River Rafting vs Kayaking Guide?

AspectRiver RaftingKayaking Guide
Required CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, rafting safety certificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, kayaking safety certifications
Work EnvironmentGroup-based, large inflatable rafts on riversIndividual or small group, single kayaks on rivers
Industry UsageTourism, adventure sports companiesTourism, adventure sports companies
Common Search IntentComparing safety, skills, and job rolesComparing skills, certifications, and work settings

Both River Rafting guides and Kayaking guides work in river-based adventure tourism, requiring similar safety certifications and working in outdoor environments. The main difference lies in the equipment used—large rafts versus individual kayaks—and the group dynamics involved. Understanding these distinctions helps aspiring guides choose the right career path in the adventure sports industry.

What are some common challenges river rafting guides face during a typical rafting season?

River rafting guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying river water levels, and managing diverse groups of guests with different skill levels. Maintaining safety while ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience requires strong communication and decision-making skills. Additionally, guides often work long hours outdoors, sometimes in remote locations, which can be physically demanding but also rewarding for those who enjoy adventure and teamwork.
What are popular job titles related to River Rafting jobs in Georgia? For River Rafting jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching River Rafting jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for River Rafting jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for River Rafting jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most River Rafting job openings:
River Rafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various River Rafting job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $28,379 per year, or $13.6 per hour.
River Guide - Chattahoochee Metro Location (2026 Season)

River Guide - Chattahoochee Metro Location (2026 Season)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$12.50 - $13.25/hr

Temporary

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

For 53 years NOC has led the outdoor industry, taking more guests whitewater rafting and teaching more paddlers than any other outdoor recreation company. NOC also provides top-quality aerial and trail-based adventures, wilderness medicine as well as unmatched retail service, foodservice, lodging, and trip planning services. NOC career opportunities offer a rare combination of work in beautiful locations, a chance to grow skills and to share a passion for active outdoor recreation.

JOB SUMMARY

Come and spend your summer on the river at Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)! The position of River Guide is a great opportunity to work on a new technical skill-set while growing your leadership, communication and teamwork skills. River Guide applicants must be at least 18 years of age prior to their start date, and have current First Aid and CPR certifications. This is a physically demanding position and is classified as seasonal.


Responsibilities


  • Occasionally guide through rapids with crews of varying size, age, and number; understanding and implementing risk-reduction in navigation, communication, and decision-making
  • Communicate with guests about local area information, other NOC activities and offerings, river and trip information, and providing general entertainment
  • Provide top-notch guest service to all guests, before, after, and during their trip
  • Participate in off-the-water tasks, including moving, loading and unloading rafts, assisting guests with gear, delivering instructional talks, and washing and organizing gear and equipment
  • Other tasks as assigned and based on qualifications, such as: driving vehicles, repair and maintenance of gear or facilities, guest check-in, and assisting other NOC departments


Qualifications


  • Basic First Aid & CPR are required prior to beginning work and this certification must be obtained through a classroom setting (please note, online First Aid & CPR are not acceptable as per our river permit agreements)
  • Wilderness First Aid or higher is encouraged
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to motivate small and large groups
  • A strong sense of guest service
  • Accountability for one's actions and performance
  • Enthusiasm about teaching and sharing outdoor activities with others
  • The ability to take direction from supervisors and managers
  • Good judgement in decision-making
  • The ability to work well under pressure and be able to respond quickly to emergencies with appropriate judgement
  • A can-do attitude and ability to work in a teamwork-based environment
  • The ability to speak clearly and with authority while guiding

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

  • Must be physically capable of maneuvering rafts for the duration of the season both on the water by steering and guiding and on land by carrying and lifting
  • Applicants should be able to lift 50lbs repetitively
  • Applicants should be comfortable sitting in raft for long periods of time and standing for long periods of time as well as able to bend, stoop and twist
  • Applicants should be comfortable working outside in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, rain)
  • Due to the seasonal nature of this position, hours and schedule will vary from week to week based on business demands


The above noted job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned but rather to provide a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of this position. As the nature of business demands change, so too may the essential functions of this position.

Please note that as an employer with over 100 employees, NOC will be required to comply with any OSHA Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard should that standard be enacted.

The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any and all terms, conditions or privileges of employment including hiring, promotions, termination, training and compensation. The NOC does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic condition or any other status protected by federal, state or local law, where applicable. Furthermore, the NOC is committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment through respecting and valuing the diversity among employees and all those with whom the NOC does business.