Rafting Manager Job Spokane area,Washington USA,Management

Rafting Manager

The River Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of Peak 7's rafting operations. This includes managing and training river guides, maintaining and repairing gear, coordinating with clients and land managers, and ensuring compliance with all permits and safety regulations. This role requires a balance of office work and fieldwork, with time spent both managing logistics and leading trips on the river.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in white water rafting, experience in team management, and swift water rescue certification (provided). They will be hands-on with gear, able to run gear boats, and work closely with the program team to ensure safe, enjoyable, and mission-driven rafting experiences.

Guide Management & Training

Oversee the training and management of river guides.
Lead guide training sessions, including safety briefings, technical skills, and leadership development.
Conduct performance reviews alongside the Program Director, and provide ongoing support and development for the guide team.

Client & Trip Coordination

Serve as the secondary point of contact for clients regarding rafting trips, ensuring excellent communication and customer service.
Coordinate trip logistics, including client itineraries, gear needs, and guide assignments.
Collaborate with the office team to manage bookings and answer client questions and requests.
Document accurate client count on trips plus support staff roles
Reviewing client waivers, allergies and medical conditions prior to start of trip

Land Management & Permits

Ensure compliance with all permits and land use regulations.
Coordinate with land managers and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable use of river areas.
Purchase online permits and coordinate with shuttle services

River Operations & Safety:

We run the Spokane, Wenatchee, Clark Fork & Deschutes Rivers.
Lead and participate in rafting trips, serving as a lead guide or safety boat operator as needed.
Run gear boats and ensure the safe and efficient transport of equipment during trips.
Serve as the on-call support during rafting operations, handling emergencies and last-minute trip changes as needed.
Ensure all trips adhere to safety protocols, guide-to-client ratios, and industry best practices.

Administrative Duties

Manage trip documentation, including waivers, client forms, incident reports, and post-trip feedback.
Receipt management
Building Trip Manifests & Rosters
Gear Maintenance & Repair
Oversee the maintenance and repair of all rafting equipment, including boats, safety gear, and vehicles.
Ensure all equipment is inspected and repaired regularly to meet safety standards.
Maintain an organized inventory of all rafting gear and supplies.

Qualifications:

Experience:

3+ years of experience in white water rafting, with leadership or managerial experience preferred
Proven experience training and managing rafting guides
Experience running gear boats and maintaining rafting equipment

Certifications:

Current Swift Water Rescue certification (preferred).
Wilderness First Responder (preferred).

Skills:

Strong leadership and team management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Mechanical aptitude and experience in gear repair/maintenance.
Ability to work in a dynamic environment and handle both office and fieldwork responsibilities.
Keen cooking skills for on river client meals

Knowledge:

Thorough understanding of river safety, guide training techniques, and rafting operations.
Familiarity with permit processes, land management regulations, and compliance requirements for rafting trips.

Preferred Attributes:

Outgoing, problem-solving attitude with a passion for outdoor adventures and youth development.
Experience working with nonprofit organizations and understanding of faith-based programming.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and on-call shifts during the rafting season.

Benefits:

Opportunity to work in a hybrid role balancing office management and outdoor leadership.
Professional development opportunities and training.
Swift Water Rescue Certification
Wilderness First Responder Certification
Access to outdoor adventure gear and participation in trips.