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Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brundage Mountain Company

Snowmobile Guide

Mccall, ID · On-site

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Join Brundage Mountain's team of professional backcountry guides and lead guests on unforgettable ... Ability to operate and maneuver 600cc & 800cc Ski-Doo snowmobiles confidently. * Experience with ...

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT LLC

Snowmobile Guide

Mccall, ID · On-site

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Join Brundage Mountain's team of professional backcountry guides and lead guests on unforgettable ... Ability to operate and maneuver 600cc & 800cc Ski-Doo snowmobiles confidently. * Experience with ...

Eleven Experience

Snow Safety Manager

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$6.0K/mo

At each destination our guided backcountry adventures await guests of all ages and skill levels ... Minimum of 5 years ski industry supervisory experience * Minimum of 10 years professional snow ...

Forest Service

Meteorological Technician

Jackson, WY · On-site +1

$19.52/hr

Experienced guiding paying clients in avalanche explosive mitigation work, or providing avalanche ... ski area; Maintained seasonal records of snowpack, weather and avalanche observations for ...

County of Mono

Public Health Officer (Part-Time)

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$111.33 - $135.33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reporting to the Director of Health and Human Services, the position guides public health policy ... Snowboard, ski, or bike down mountain trails, fish for trout, explore the backcountry, play a round ...

MultiCare

Radiology Tech Trainee - Rockwood

Spokane, WA · On-site

$30.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Residents enjoy lakes, rivers, ski resorts, golf courses, wineries, and nearby national parks ... Living our values Respect, integrity, kindness and collaboration guide how we care for patients ...

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Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide information

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How much do trainee backcountry ski guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee backcountry ski guide in the United States is $22.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee backcountry ski guides during their initial training period?

Trainee Backcountry Ski Guides often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, managing group safety in avalanche-prone terrain, and building strong communication skills with guests and senior guides. The role demands a high level of physical fitness and mental resilience, as trainees are expected to handle long days in remote, cold environments while making quick, safe decisions. Additionally, balancing the technical aspects of guiding with customer service and learning to anticipate client needs are crucial skills developed during the training period.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee backcountry ski guide?

To thrive as a Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide, you need strong skiing ability, avalanche safety knowledge, and basic wilderness first aid training, often supported by certifications such as Avalanche Safety Training (AST 1/2) and Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Familiarity with navigation tools like GPS devices, avalanche transceivers, and mapping software is essential. Excellent judgment, clear communication, and leadership under pressure are vital soft skills for guiding and managing group dynamics in unpredictable environments. These skills and qualifications ensure both client safety and enjoyable experiences while navigating remote and potentially hazardous terrain.

What is a trainee backcountry ski guide?

A Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide is someone who is in the process of gaining the skills, experience, and certifications necessary to lead groups safely in off-piste and remote mountain areas on skis. They typically work under the supervision of certified guides, assisting with trip planning, navigation, avalanche safety, and client care while learning the complexities of guiding in challenging winter environments. Trainees often participate in formal training programs and gradually take on more responsibilities as they progress toward full certification.

What is the difference between Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide vs Certified Backcountry Ski Guide?

AspectTrainee Backcountry Ski GuideCertified Backcountry Ski Guide
CertificationsBasic first aid, introductory avalanche training, beginner guiding certificationsAdvanced avalanche certifications, professional guiding certifications (e.g., ACMG, IFMGA)
Work EnvironmentSupervised, beginner to intermediate terrain, learning-focusedIndependent guiding, advanced terrain, client management
Experience LevelEntry-level, gaining practical guiding skillsExperienced, with extensive guiding hours and certifications

The main difference between a Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide and a Certified Backcountry Ski Guide lies in experience, certifications, and independence. Trainees are in the learning phase, working under supervision with basic certifications, while certified guides are fully qualified, experienced professionals capable of leading clients independently in challenging terrain.

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Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Backcountry Ski Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,727 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Snowmobile Guide

Brundage Mountain Company

Mccall, ID • On-site

$13.50 - $15.50/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Join Brundage Mountain's team of professional backcountry guides and lead guests on unforgettable snowmobile adventures through the stunning Payette National Forest. Our guided tours explore scenic destinations like Clow Point, Granite Lake, Brundage Reservoir, Goose Lake, and Burgdorf Hot Springs. Whether guests are first-timers or seasoned riders, you'll ensure a safe, educational, and exhilarating experience.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead full-day (9 AM-4 PM) and half-day (11 AM-4 PM) guided snowmobile tours for up to 8 guests in a group.
  • Facilitate check out and check in of daily rentals
  • Provide thorough pre-ride orientations, including safety briefings and snowmobile operation instructions.
  • Assess guest skill levels and adapt routes accordingly to ensure safety and enjoyment.
  • Monitor weather and trail conditions to make real-time decisions on routing and safety.
  • Assist with snowmobile check-in/check-out and basic maintenance inspections.
  • Educate guests on local geography, wildlife, and environmental stewardship.
  • Uphold Brundage's high standards of customer service, safety, and professionalism.

Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies or unexpected situations in remote terrain
Job Qualifications:
  • Prior snowmobile riding experience required; guiding experience preferred.
  • Familiarity with the McCall area and Payette National Forest trail systems.
  • Current certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Avalanche Awareness (or willingness to obtain).
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to engage and instruct diverse groups.
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions including cold temperatures, high winds, low visibility, and heavy snowfall.
  • Excellent physical condition and ability to perform strenuous activities at high altitudes.
  • Ability to operate and maneuver 600cc & 800cc Ski-Doo snowmobiles confidently.
  • Experience with GPS navigation, avalanche beacons, and backcountry safety gear.
  • Must be 21+ years old with a valid driver's license and able to pass a motor vehicle records check.
  • Availability to work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts depending on operational needs.

Apply