Whitewater Raft Guide - Rookie

Arkansas Valley Adventures; Idaho Springs (CO); On-site; USD 17,229 - 24,539; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Camping accommodations

Gear discounts with partner outdoor brands

Job summary

Arkansas Valley Adventures is hiring Whitewater Raft Guides for the summer season of 2026 in Kremmling, Idaho Springs, and Buena Vista, Colorado. This role requires no prior experience, and candidates must possess up-to-date CPR or First Aid certification.

The position offers both full-time and part-time options, with base pay starting at $15.16 per hour plus tips, and includes various outdoor-related benefits, such as gear discounts. Join a team that values safety, education, and enjoyment while leading river trips for guests.

Qualifications

• No prior experience required.
• Must possess an up-to-date CPR or First Aid certification.
• Physical ability and passion for the outdoors are essential.
• Teamwork skills and commitment to customer care are important.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, educational, and enjoyable river trips for guests.
• Navigate a commercial raft while maintaining situational awareness.
• Provide interpretive information during trips.
• Perform swiftwater rescue techniques as needed.

Skills

Physical ability

Passion for the outdoors

Teamwork skills

Commitment to customer care

Education

Up-to-date CPR or First Aid certification

Job description

Job Overview

AVA, a division of the Outlaw Group, is hiring Whitewater Raft Guides for the 2026 summer season in Kremmling, Idaho Springs, and Buena Vista, Colorado.

Location & Season

Locations: Kremmling, Idaho Springs, Buena Vista, CO. Season: May 2026 – September 2026, full‑time or part‑time options.

Compensation & Benefits

The base pay for first‑year rookie guides is $15.16 per hour, with tips typically adding $10–$20 per hour. Experienced guides may receive higher pay. Employees receive camping accommodations with facilities such as showers, restrooms, cooking, and recreation. Additional benefits include gear discounts with partner outdoor brands.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, educational, and enjoyable river trips for guests.
• Navigate a commercial raft down the river while maintaining situational awareness.
• Provide interpretive information during trips.
• Perform swiftwater rescue techniques as needed.
• Maintain equipment, gear, and the work area.
• Support a great guest experience in 2–3 trips per day over ~9‑hour workdays.

Qualifications

• No prior experience required.
• Must possess an up‑to‑date CPR or First Aid certification.
• Physical ability, passion for the outdoors, and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to customer care.
• Additional certifications are an advantage.

Work Availability

Part‑time: less than ~30 hours per week. Full‑time: ~40 hours per week. Holidays include the 4th of July.

Equality & Non‑Discrimination

AVA Rafting & Zip Line is an equal‑opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.