Students Offering Support jobs

Raft Guides Needed For The Fall!!

RiverWatch is now hiring for our 2026 Fall School Float season in Edmonton & Calgary.

- Ideal for summer raft guides, looking for fall work or post sec. students balancing classes or other work.

- Our 2026 fall float season runs kicks off end of early September. Training begins last week of August and through first week of September.

Want a Job That Actually Makes a Difference? Certified River Guides and/or Environmental & Earth Science Students — this one’s for you.

Join a team that helps thousands of students connect with:

- River Health, Watershed Science
- Environmental Stewardship, Outdoor Learning

This is more than a seasonal role — it’s purpose-driven work on Alberta’s rivers.

Spend your days:

- On the river teaching hands-on science
- Guiding unforgettable experiences and making a real impact

RiverWatch Guide Jobs are Perfect for Certified Raft Guides and/or 1st or 2nd Year Post Secondary Students in:

- Environmental Science
- Education
- Biology / Earth Science
- Outdoor Recreation

Applications open ONLY UNTIL FILLED!

Turn your love of the outdoors, rivers and science into a real job that teaches, guides, and inspires — RiverWatch is hiring Interpretive River Guides for Fall 2026 in Calgary and Edmonton. Our 2026 fall float season runs kicks off end of early September. Training begins last week of August and through first week of September.

APPLY NOW and be part of something extraordinary! If you’re looking for real-world field experience, outdoor education skills, and a job that actually makes a difference — welcome aboard. This is an and outdoors seasonal role is ideal for environmental science students, as well as those with a combined interpretive, summer camp and paddling experience. Our season runs from late April through summer and into the fall—don’t miss your chance to make a difference with our school science floats, brand-new Summer Science Camps, and award-winning Public EcoFloats.

Teach. Float. Inspire. Protect Alberta’s Rivers. This is more than a seasonal role — it’s a chance to help connect thousands of students, families, and community members to river health, watershed science, and environmental stewardship through unforgettable floating classroom experiences.

Why Join RiverWatch?

✔ Non-Profit since 1995, we floated close to 200,000 students since our founding.

✔ Work outdoors, share your passion for science and the environment, gain real-world experience, and build a strong environmental resume.

✔ Be part of an award-winning interpretive float program that connects thousands of people to their local rivers and watersheds every year.

✔ Join a passionate team in a dynamic, rewarding environment!

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A RiverWatch Interpretive Guide is an Unmatched Fieldwork Experience in Environmental Science!

Founded in 1995, RiverWatch is a leading Alberta-based nonprofit that provides environmental and earth science students with meaningful, hands-on field experience that sets them apart in today’s workforce. As the largest interpretive river float operation in Western Canada—welcoming more than 14,000 guests annually—RiverWatch is at the forefront of workforce development in the environmental science sector, offering unmatched opportunities to build practical skills in watershed education, ecology, outdoor leadership, and science communication.

RiverWatch continues to set the standard for experiential environmental and water education, river safety leadership, and the development of the next generation of conservation and environmental professionals.

Our fully guided interpretive float programs offer extraordinary opportunities for students and emerging leaders seeking careers in conservation, research, outdoor education, and resource management.

About Our Float Programs:

• School Science Floats: Each year, approximately 10,000 Grade 8–10 students step aboard RiverWatch’s floating classrooms to conduct water quality testing, explore river ecosystems, and experience hands-on environmental science on rafts that serve as mobile water quality labs. Guides play a vital role in delivering these curriculum-aligned adventures. Since 1995, nearly 200,000 students have participated in RiverWatch’s award-winning education programs.
• Summer Science Camps: RiverWatch Summer Science Camps offer youth an immersive multi-day experience combining outdoor adventure and watershed science. Campers build confidence, leadership, and environmental awareness through guided rafting, ecology-based learning, and interpretive activities. Guides help create unforgettable summer programming that inspires curiosity and empowers the next generation of conservation-minded leaders.
• EcoFloats: Launched just three years ago in Edmonton and Calgary, EcoFloats has quickly become an award-winning eco-tourism experience, connecting thousands of participants each summer to their local waterways. Blending recreation with environmental education, guides lead engaging discussions on wildlife, history, and conservation while delivering extraordinary river experiences that deepen public connection to rivers and watersheds.

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RiverWatch Offers Flexible Employment Opportunities

We know students and early-career professionals have varying availability throughout the spring, summer, and fall. That’s why RiverWatch provides flexible, student-friendly employment options—so you can gain meaningful experience in environmental education, outdoor leadership, and river guiding while working around your schedule.

Choose the Schedule That Works Best for You

RiverWatch offers multiple shift pathways throughout our six-month float season. Select the level of commitment that best fits your school, lifestyle, and availability:

Flexible Shift Program (1–5 Days/Week)

• Build a schedule that adapts week to week
• Work 1 to 5 shifts/trips per week
• Shifts available most days throughout the season (weather dependent)
• Ideal for certified guides or students balancing classes or other work

Full Seasonal Commitment (Late April–October)

• Join RiverWatch for the full operating season
• Gain the most immersive experience and professional growth
• Perfect for those seeking deeper field leadership and development opportunities

Build Skills. Gain Experience. Make an Impact.

• Develop real-world leadership skills
• Work outdoors on Alberta’s rivers
• Inspire thousands of students through hands-on science education
• Launch your future in conservation, tourism, or outdoor guiding

Join RiverWatch and start building your outdoor career today.

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JOB DESCRIPTION (*Important Please Read Carefully*)

THE RIVERWATCH EXPERIENCE – Is this for you? Every year, our Interpretive River Guide team is handpicked from hundreds of applicants to be the heart of our float experience. Together, we create impactful and unforgettable educational experiences for our students. As a RiverWatch Interpretive River Guide, you'll be part of a close-knit team that leads by example, ensuring every float runs smoothly both on and off the water.

RiverWatch River Guide – Safety, Leadership & Education

At RiverWatch, SAFETY is our number one priority. This role requires strong leadership, clear communication, and sound decision-making to guide rafts through the waterways while engaging participants with environmental education.

Key Responsibilities – Interpretive River Guide (Student Science Floats and Summer Science Camps)

• Lead safe, engaging raft trips for students and youth participants on Alberta’s rivers
• Deliver curriculum-aligned science programming during RiverWatch School Science Floats
• Support hands-on water quality testing and environmental data collection activities
• Facilitate interpretive learning through discussions on ecology, wildlife, watersheds, and conservation
• Provide leadership and mentorship to campers during RiverWatch Summer Science Camps
• Ensure all safety protocols, risk management procedures, and emergency standards are followed
• Assist with daily equipment preparation, raft setup, and site logistics before and after floats
• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and professional experience for all participants
• Collaborate with RiverWatch staff and fellow guides to deliver high-quality programming
• Take photos to help document and share the float experience with schools, teachers, and the RiverWatch community, in accordance with RiverWatch policies
• Represent RiverWatch’s mission of environmental stewardship and science education at all times

Key Responsibilities (EcoFloat Public Float Program)

• Lead safe, memorable guided river float experiences for public guests in Edmonton and Calgary
• Deliver engaging interpretive commentary on local wildlife, history, ecology, and watershed health
• Create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for families, tourists, and community groups
• Support light citizen-science learning, including optional water awareness and river stewardship messaging
• Ensure all guest safety procedures, briefings, and river protocols are followed at all times
• Assist with raft preparation, equipment checks, launches, and take-outs before and after each float
• Respond professionally to guest questions and provide an exceptional customer experience
• Take photos to help document and share the float experience with guests, and the RiverWatch community, in accordance with RiverWatch policies
• Work collaboratively with fellow guides to maintain smooth daily operations
• Uphold RiverWatch’s standards for outdoor leadership, hospitality, and environmental education
• Represent RiverWatch as an ambassador for river conservation and community connection

Pre- and Post-Float Responsibilities

• Prepare and organize all trip equipment, including rafts, paddles, safety gear, and educational materials
• Assist participants with proper gear fitting, including PFDs, and ensure awareness of required safety equipment
• Deliver clear and confident safety briefings so all guests understand expectations and feel prepared
• Introduce the experience with enthusiasm, setting the tone for science learning, wildlife observation, and memorable moments
• Ensure participant safety throughout the float by applying strong navigation, communication, and risk management practices
• Guide rafts for diverse groups of students, youth, families, and members of the public
• Provide engaging interpretation and education by sharing ecological, historical, and watershed knowledge in an accessible way
• Enhance the guest experience by encouraging participation, answering questions, and creating meaningful photo and learning opportunities
• Monitor changing river conditions, weather, and participant comfort, adapting as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip
• Maintain active communication with the guide team via radio, sharing updates on timing, wildlife sightings, and potential hazards
• Support safe disembarkation at take-out and ensure all participants exit the raft securely
• Engage with guests post-trip to reinforce key takeaways, answer questions, and gather feedback
• Assist with equipment loading, storage, and organization to ensure readiness for future floats
• Help celebrate the experience by encouraging guests to share memories and deepen their connection to protecting local waterways

As a RiverWatch Guide, you play a critical role in ensuring safety, providing exceptional guest experiences, and fostering a deeper connection to nature and environmental stewardship. If you’re ready to inspire, educate, and lead on Alberta’s rivers, we’d love to have you on our team!

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Training & Certifications Required (Prior to Start Date)

All successful applicants must obtain and provide the following certifications at their own expense prior to the start of the season:

• Basic First Aid & CPR/AED Certification (Required): Wilderness First Aid or higher-level certification is strongly encouraged and considered an asset.
• Local Police/RCMP Vulnerable Sector Check (Required): In accordance with RiverWatch safety policies and student programming standards, all employees must complete a current Local Police or RCMP Vulnerable Sector Check to help ensure a safe learning environment. This process must be completed prior to start of season.

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Training & Certifications Provided

RiverWatch provides comprehensive in-house training to ensure every guide meets the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and environmental interpretation before leading trips on the water.

All required RiverWatch certifications include both written and practical evaluations, and trainees must successfully pass all components in order to qualify for employment.

Safety Training

At RiverWatch, safety is our top priority. Every guide receives industry-leading instruction in rafting operations, risk management, and emergency preparedness.

RiverWatch’s Safety Officer is an experienced professional river safety trainer and examiner, overseeing all guide certifications and ongoing safety development throughout the season.

Safety training includes:

• PROAOA Raft Guide Certification (for guides not already certified)
• Comprehensive instruction in river navigation, hazard awareness, and risk assessment
• Emergency response training, including incident management and rescue protocols
• Participant management for both student and public guest groups
• On-the-water mentorship with experienced senior guides to build strong paddling, leadership, and decision-making skills

Environmental Interpretation and Water Education Training

In addition to safety training, RiverWatch provides specialized instruction environmental interpretation and water education training. Guides learn how to deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned science programming during School Science Floats, Summer Science Camps and meaningful storytelling and river interpretation during public EcoFloats.

This training equips guides with the knowledge and confidence to create interactive, memorable learning experiences for both students and the general public.

Environmental Interpretation and Water Education Training Includes:

• Water Quality Testing & River Health Monitoring (for School Science Floats and Summer Science Camps only)
• Understanding ecosystem health and watershed connections
• Local wildlife identification and ecological interpretation
• River geology, hydrology, and landform development
• Conservation messaging and inspiring stewardship and environmental responsibility
• Sharing the history of local rivers and their role in shaping Edmonton and Calgary communities

RiverWatch training ensures every guide is fully prepared to deliver safe, inspiring, and impactful experiences on Alberta’s rivers.

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Ready to Apply? Here Are the Key Skills We’re Looking For

Successful RiverWatch guides share a strong mix of leadership, communication, and environmental passion. Ideal candidates demonstrate:

• Strong communication and group leadership – Ability to clearly instruct, engage, and manage participants on the water.
• Confident public speaking – Comfortable presenting information, guiding groups, and projecting calm authority.
• Commitment to inclusivity – Ensuring every participant feels safe, supported, and valued throughout the experience.
• Sound judgment and quick decision-making – Able to respond effectively to changing river conditions and emergency situations.
• Passion for environmental education – Enthusiasm for sharing knowledge of rivers, science, wildlife, and conservation.
• Team-first mindset – Works collaboratively with fellow guides and takes direction from supervisors.
• Ability to perform under pressure – Maintains professionalism, focus, and composure in fast-paced or high-stress situations.

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Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

River guiding is an active, outdoor role that requires physical fitness, adaptability, and comfort working in changing conditions.

• Raft Handling: Guides must be physically capable of maneuvering rafts both on the water and on land throughout the season.
• Lifting & Carrying: Ability to repetitively lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 lbs as part of daily operations.
• Physical Stamina: Comfortable sitting in a raft for extended periods, as well as standing, bending, stooping, twisting, and moving on uneven terrain when required.
• Outdoor Work Environment: Willingness to work in a wide range of weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain — and occasionally even snow.
• Variable Scheduling: As a seasonal, weather-dependent role, shift hours and weekly schedules may vary based on operational needs.
• Adaptability: Must be prepared to respond to changing river conditions, participant needs, and day-to-day adjustments in programming and logistics.

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Ready to Apply?

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible — hiring is ongoing and positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Training begins right away for successful candidates.

To be considered, please submit a complete application, including:

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your education, paddling or outdoor experience, and first aid qualifications
• Completion of all required screening questions, as applications will only be reviewed once all screening has been answered in full
• Don’t wait — apply now and join the RiverWatch team for an unforgettable season on the river.

Job Type: Seasonal
Contract length: 2 months

Pay: $19.00-$21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20.0 – 35.0 per week

Benefits:

• Company events
• Flexible schedule

Application question(s):

• Do you have paddling experience? If so, please provide details about your experience, including the type of paddling, duration, and any relevant training or class certifications and expiration dates.
• Do you have a valid First Aid certification? Please specify the level of certification, the issuing organization, and the expiry date.
• Do you have your own reliable transportation to get to work? Our locations may be difficult to access by local transit. Additionally, do you live in the city or in a neighbouring community? If you live outside the city, please specify your location.
• As a new employee joining RiverWatch, what would you value MOST in your first 1–2 weeks of training and time on the job?

A. Being trusted to operate independently as soon as possible
B. Learning RiverWatch’s safety culture, expectations, and standard operating procedures
C. Feeling socially comfortable and making strong connections with the staff team
D. Getting lots of river time right away to build confidence quickly
E. Understanding how to deliver excellent guest experiences and interpretation

• Do you have experience delivering interpretive nature programs to youth or the public in science or nature? If Yes, please explain providing detail including years and name of program.
• All RiverWatch guide training is mandatory participation. Our in-person, on-water training begins last week of August and through first week of September (dates TBD). Can you attend?
• How many hours per week are you looking to work? Are you seeking a consistent schedule with 3-4 shifts per week, or would you prefer a flexible schedule with approximately 1-2 shifts per week?
• Do you have experience driving for work? Have you ever driven a school bus or pulled a trailer for a rafting operation? What class of driver's license do you have?
• When a new guide starts with RiverWatch, which of the following is the MOST important focus during their first few weeks?

A. Learning fun interpretation facts and storytelling for guests
B. Becoming confident running the float route and speaking to groups
C. Understanding RiverWatch safety systems, emergency protocols, and risk awareness
D. Developing efficiency in loading/unloading rafts quickly
E. Building friendships and fitting into the guide team culture,

• Due to insurance requirements, school board policies, and the nature of working closely with youth, all RiverWatch employees are required to successfully complete a Police Information Check with a Vulnerable Sector Check before employment begins. If offered a position, are you willing and able to obtain this check?

Work Location: In person