An OARS guide rows an oar raft on California's Lower Klamath River.

Employment with OARS

Combine your passion for the outdoors with an opportunity to build your professional skills and experience – apply for a job and join the OARS team! Whether you’re looking for a new career path, a summer job, or a side gig, we have something for everyone.


Current Employment Opportunities

Now hiring for the 2024 season. Though applications may be submitted at any time, most hiring will occur between October and April.

Whitewater River Guides

Base Operations Support Staff

The OARS community provides a professional, fun, and exciting atmosphere within which to work. Each year, we have a large percentage of our team, over 300+ staff, return and continue to grow and nurture the OARS mission. And each year we also have a wide range of positions available – from operations management to campground staff, and everything in between, including river guiding, driving shuttles, and office jobs, including remote work opportunities.

It takes many talented people to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our guests, and we can’t do it without each and every person on our awesome team!

Employment map.

On the many rivers OARS runs throughout the West, we create opportunities for both new and returning staff to build skills that will last a lifetime, including customer service, leadership, risk management, public speaking, and more. For those new to the outdoor industry, working at OARS is a great way to get connected and join an amazing community of passionate, diverse, and fun people. Whether on or off the river, we love sharing our passion for wild rivers and the special places we visit along the way with our whole team. As the founder of OARS, George Wendt believed, “We protect what we love and we love what we know.” If you want to be a part of the mission he started over 50 years ago, come join our team!

An OARS guide leads a high school group through whitewater rapids on the South Fork of the American River in California.

Why should you WANT to work for OARS?

  • Competitive pay (see each job description for details)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Sick pay or PTO, and health insurance perks
  • Healthy food and an active lifestyle
  • Opportunities to work at a variety of rivers throughout the West
  • Amazing staff gear package and access to pro deals
  • Discounted trips for friends and family
  • Use of OARS equipment for personal trips
  • Full-time, part-time, and flexible schedules available

Staff Testimonials

“OARS has a reputation of professionalism, respect, and stewardship that aligns with my own values and ethics. While OARS is a large company it still maintains the ambiance of a family owned business that values and honors its employees. I look forward to my future and symbiotic relationship with a company of such high integrity.”

Dustin Abbott, Operations Manager Oregon

“Living on the east coast and working for outfitters out here, I had always admired OARS from afar. When the opportunity for remote work with OARS came up, I jumped on it. OARS fosters a healthy working environment and cares about our happiness and success. I feel fully supported by my coworkers, managers, and the owners. And the perks are great! I’m proud and grateful every day to work for OARS.”

Madelyn Vidmar, Adventure Consultant Remote

“I love my job! As a driver, I take great pride in safely transporting our clients and their gear to and from the river. I find it immensely rewarding to see the impact that their river experience has had on them and their travel companions. And I enjoy the beautiful scenery of Northern Arizona – I get to visit the Colorado River every workday. Life is good!”

Felicia Bicknell, Driver Grand Canyon

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