Raft Pilot / Van Driver (Dual Role) - Black Canyon Rafting

Raft Pilot / Van Driver

Compensation Amount: 17.00 USD Hourly

Job Summary

The Raft Pilot / Van Driver is a dual-role position responsible for the safe operation of motorized rafts on designated river routes and, as needed, the safe transportation of guests in a 14-passenger van. This role supports daily operations by seamlessly connecting land and river experiences while delivering an exceptional, safety-focused guest experience.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate motorized rafts in accordance with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and National Park Service requirements
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vessels and safety equipment
• Monitor river conditions, weather, and passenger safety at all times
• Execute emergency procedures as trained and report incidents promptly

Guest Experience & Interpretation

• Welcome guests aboard and deliver clear, engaging safety briefings
• Provide narration and interpretation related to local history, wildlife, geology, and river features
• Assist guests with boarding, seating, and disembarking as needed
• Maintain a friendly, professional, and calm demeanor in all guest interactions

Transportation Support (Dual Role)

• Safely operate a 14-passenger van as needed to support guest transportation and daily logistics
• Fill in as a van driver to ensure timely guest pickups, shuttles, and returns
• Conduct basic vehicle safety checks and maintain vehicle cleanliness
• Communicate with dispatch and operations staff to ensure smooth transitions between land and river activities

Environmental Stewardship

• Operate vessels and vehicles in a manner that minimizes environmental impact
• Follow Leave No Trace principles and support park preservation goals
• Educate guests on responsible recreation and resource protection

Team & Operational Support

• Communicate effectively with fellow crew members and dispatch
• Assist with dock operations, vessel cleaning, and general upkeep
• Support special events, charters, and operational needs as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Valid driver's license with clean driving record; ability to operate a 14-passenger van (CDL Class B preferred but not necessary)
• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain)
• Willing to submit to DOT drug & alcohol testing
• Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills
• Experience working with the public
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs
• High School diploma, GED, or other acceptable experience.

Materials and Equipment Used

• Washer/Dryer
• Vacuum
• Raft
• Fuel Dispenser
• Cleaning Supplies
• 2 Cycle Oil Dispenser
• Air pump
• Pump-out Equipment
• VHF Radio

Physical Requirements

• Driving a raft/van
• Working in Hot Weather
• Bending
• Stooping
• Visual identification of wildlife
• Visual identification of landmarks
• Lifting up to 50 pounds
• Standing for short and long periods of time
• Working in sunlight for long periods

Why You'll Love It:

• Work on the Colorado River below Hoover Dam
• Spend your days outdoors in one of the Southwest's most scenic canyons
• Be part of a fun, tight-knit river operations team
• Combine driving, guiding, and adventure into one unique role

Founded in 1917, Guest Services has worked tirelessly to earn the reputation as the premier hospitality management company and National Park Service concessionaire in the United States. Guest Services takes great care and pride in providing best-in-class services across a wide variety of client sites including luxury communities, hotels, resorts, government and business dining facilities, full-service restaurants, state and national parks, outdoor recreation, boathouses, marinas, museums, conference centers, senior living communities, health care systems, school and university dining facilities, and specialty retail stores.

Guest Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and promotion without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: We embrace Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the richness it brings to our company. Our commitment is to provide an inclusive workplace where individuals can bring their whole selves to work, enabling them to provide the best level of service to our diverse customer base.