Job Description
Job DescriptionSalary: $14-17 DOE + tips
Position Overview
Join our team leading unforgettable rafting experiences through the pristine waters of Alaska's Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. As a raft guide, you'll row an 18-foot oar-rig raft carrying up to 8 passengers on 1.5-hour scenic float down the Tsirku, Klehini, and/or Chilkat Rivers. This position combines outdoor leadership, risk management, and guest services in one of Alaska's most spectacular settings.
Required Qualifications
- Must be 19 or older by June 2026
- Wilderness First Responder, CPR, Swift Water Rescue certified
- (We can assist with certifications if you are not currently certified)
- Ability to lift and carry 80 pounds repeatedly over uneven terrain
- Excellent communication and group management skills
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record
Primary Responsibilities
Safety & Guest Experience
- Maintain constant awareness of guest safety and river conditions
- Create an engaging, educational, and entertaining experience for guests
- Manage groups of up to 48 people during daily tours
- Collect and verify all necessary waivers and tickets
Equipment & Operations
- Foster a positive guest experience
- Set up and break down rafting equipment daily
- Conduct pre-trip equipment checks and maintenance
- Drive vehicles with guests and equipment as needed
- Complete daily guide checklists and incident reports
- Maintain cleanliness of gear, facilities, and river access points
Team & Professional Development
- Work collaboratively within a tight-knit guide team
- Participate in ongoing training and skill development
- Maintain professional appearance and attitude
- Communicate effectively with program managers and maintenance staff
- Assist with other programs and operational needs as required
Additional Job Responsibilities
Employees may be called on to participate in other Haines programs at any time. This may include but is not limited to - hiking tours, naturalism tours, CDL bus driving for other tours (if applicable), vehicle maintenance, general driving duties, food prep, gear maintenance, and overall operational support.
Optional CDL Program
- Opportunity to obtain Class B CDL
- Additional compensation for bus driving duties
- Requirements include:
- FMCSA pre-employment drug screening
- Valid Medical Examiner's Card
- Completion of 8-hour AMG Haines Driver training
Work Schedule
Seasonal Flow
- Shoulder Season (May & September)
- 20-30 hours per week
- Excellent opportunity for personal outdoor exploration
- Peak Season (June - August)
- 40+ hours per week
- Limited time off during high-volume periods
- Schedule flexibility required
- Early mornings and late evenings may be required as dictated by schedule volume
- Trips are run 7 days a week, meaning you will not have regular set weekends
Employee Housing Details
Haines housing consists of our employee campground. The campground is located on the same property as our warehouse and center of operations, which removes a commute to work and is convenient for any staff planning to come to Alaska without a vehicle.
- First-year guides typically tent camp
- Senior staff may access camper/RV spots
- Personal campervans/trailers considered with approval
Amenities
- Four plumbed & heated bathroom/shower facilities
- Secure communal cooking area (required due to local wildlife)
- Guide room with WiFi and electrical access
- Nearby laundromat within walking distance
- Pet-friendly with management approval
Cost & Terms
- $100 monthly rent ($50 per paycheck)
- Pro-rated first month, will not start charging rent until unpaid training is completed
- Full final month payment required regardless of early departure
Financials
Compensation
- Hourly wage $14-$17 per hour as determined by tenure, experience, and qualifications.
- Overtime (1.5x) applicable for any time over 8 hours in a day or 40 in a week
- Bonuses available for:
- successful completion of agreed-upon contract
- successful completion of entire working season (ending in October)
Expenditures
- Mandatory purchase of company-logo gear at significant discount. This purchase will total ~$50-$100: and will include hat, t-shirts, and high-quality thermal jacket layer all with company logo.
- Raft school training is unpaid, but is offered at no cost to you
- Obtaining any certifications (WFR, SWR, CPR) through the company will be unpaid, but offered to you at a significant discount.