Employment Opportunities Alaska Alpine Adventures

We seek guides who excel at working with people and possess the character necessary to be exceptional in this role. Our trip leaders are more than just naturalists, drivers, or escorts; they are also cooks, baggage handlers, camp hosts, wilderness navigators, and committed to providing extraordinary customer service to our guests. For more information about employment and detailed position descriptions, please call us. Alaska Alpine Adventures is an equal opportunity employer, offering competitive pay, training opportunities, and incredible travel benefits.

Wilderness Guides lead our multi-day backpacking, kayaking, and hiking trips in Alaska’s most remote areas. Qualified candidates must have a current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR certification and be experienced outdoor leaders with diverse skills. Ideal candidates will have 2-3 years of trip leader experience in Alaska, documented multi-day expedition experience in remote regions, and a strong customer service record. A broad understanding of Alaska’s natural and cultural history is also required.

Note: If you lack professional guiding experience in Alaska or similar wilderness areas, consider applying for the Assistant Guide position.

Wilderness Rafting Guides lead multi-day rafting and hiking adventures on Alaska’s spectacular rivers. Qualified candidates must have a current WFR and CPR certification, a Whitewater Rescue Technician certification, at least 2 seasons of experience as a trip leader in Alaska, and documented multi-day rafting or canoeing experience with at least 120 days of boating experience. Candidates must also safely navigate Class III whitewater and possess strong backcountry skills. A broad understanding of Alaska’s natural and cultural history is required, and many staff members are cross-trained to lead both land and water itineraries.

Assistant Guides are trained to become full-fledged Alaska Alpine Adventures Guides and can assist on all tour types. Under the guidance of our seasoned trip leaders, Assistant Guides hone their skills in managing the complex logistics required for airplane-assisted wilderness travel. Applicants should have some guiding experience but may not meet all the qualifications to lead trips independently. Assistant Guides have the opportunity to mentor alongside veteran staff and gain the necessary qualifications for leadership roles. Candidates should have multi-week trip-leading experience and feel comfortable living and working in remote wilderness settings. All field staff must hold a current WFR and CPR certification. Qualified applicants enrolled in an outdoor recreation program at an accredited university may have the opportunity to participate in internship roles or projects, pending approval.

• Age: 21+ years and legally authorized to work in the United States
• Driver’s License: Valid with an excellent driving record and experience driving 15-passenger vans
• Certifications: WFR and CPR required for all positions; Swiftwater Rescue Technician certification required for guiding river trips
• Food Handlers Card: Must obtain a Municipality of Anchorage Food Handlers Card (can be acquired after hire)
• Experience: Prior professional guiding experience is expected; customer service background is highly recommended
• Ability to work long days performing all duties of a professional guide
• Physical Capability: Able to lift 70 pounds and work long days performing all guide duties
• Attitude: Positive and supportive team player with flexibility in daily activities and seasonal schedule

To apply, please send the following to Nick Allen at Guides@AlaskaAlpineAdventures.com:

A Cover Letter that Includes:

• Introduction: A brief introduction about yourself and your relevant outdoor adventure and guiding experience.
• How You Learned About Us: Share how you discovered Alaska Alpine Adventures.
• Position Applied For: Specify the position you are applying for and highlight relevant skills and experiences. Attach supporting documents (trip logs, climbing/expedition resumes, outdoor portfolio etc.).
• Availability: Please clearly state your first and last potential workdays in Alaska. Our full season runs from late May to early September, with preference given to applicants available for the entire season. Full-time guides typically work 2-4 trips (13-21 days) per month, and guides hired for the full summer season can expect to spend an average of 50-65 days in the field.

A Resume Outlining:

• Education: Your educational background, including relevant coursework.
• Work Experience: Detailed relevant work experience, including any leadership or volunteer roles.
• Certifications: List all current certifications and documented training (WFR, CPR, etc.).
• References: Provide at least three employer references who can speak to your qualifications and character.

We’re excited to hear from you! Feel free to email us with your resume details or any questions. Resumes will be accepted throughout the year; however, please note that the official staffing season begins after the New Year’s break, and hiring decisions are typically concluded by early March.