MOUNTAIN GUIDES

Professional mountain guiding is an exciting and rewarding job. The people we meet, the climbers we work with, the mountains we work in, and the challenges of the terrain and environment all contribute to making guiding an exceptional profession.

For over 50 years, RMI Expeditions has trained and employed some of the foremost American guides, and we are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of both our present and past guides. Our guides have made significant advances to the sport of mountaineering and the guiding industry. We continue that legacy and are always excited to welcome new guides to our team and to the industry.

We are accepting entry-level guide applications for the 2025 season

An entry-level guide typically begins their career on our domestic programs in Washington, guiding on Mt. Rainier and in the North Cascades. RMI Expeditions has a robust training and mentoring program that prepares our entry-level guides for the job. As their skillset, leadership, and experience grow, guides broaden their horizons to expeditions such as Denali, Aconcagua, or a host of programs across the globe. Our primary focus is alpine climbing and ski guiding disciplines, and we are proud to work on all seven continents, providing ample opportunities for continued professional growth.

Guiding requires a passion for our clients, for the mountains, and for sharing our mountaineering knowledge and skills in a safe and professional manner.

Guiding For RMI: Notes From Some Of Our Top Guides

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• Casey: "After a long-awaited dream come true, I started my guiding career in the spring of 2000. I only knew then a fraction of the benefits that I would eventually gain. The last decade has been incredible, from working under the leadership of some of the best guides in the country, to getting to travel the world as a professional mountain guide for the most famous guide service in America. I started with guiding different routes on Mt. Rainier, and after a short period of hard work,... Read more...

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• Lacie: "After hearing about RMI from multiple people, I was excited to apply for the position and see what the Pacific Northwest guiding was all about. Little did I realize the opportunities and fulfillment it would bring. I was looking for a company that would push my growth in leadership and climbing. After my first season, I was sure I made the right move by joining a company that provided unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth..." Read more...

• 

• Dustin: "I work for an organized, well-respected guide service with approachable owners and managers, alongside many of the best people I have ever known. My work life and personal life both revolve around spending time outside, and I finally have a sense of fulfillment at work. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and would encourage anyone considering becoming a guide to apply at RMI and see where it could take you." Read more...

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• Arianna: "I started working for RMI's Warehouse team during the winter of 2023. I had just graduated from college in Wisconsin and knew that I wanted to spend time in the Pacific Northwest before applying to law school. I moved to Washington with the primary goal of completing more personal climbing objectives in the Cascades; at this time, a career in guiding was not on my radar..." Read more...

Current Guide Hiring Opportunities

We are accepting applications for Entry-Level Guide Applicants for the 2025 summer season. Experienced Guide Applicants can still apply via the instructions below.

Who We Hire:

As a guide for RMI, you must enjoy talking and engaging with people, communicate well, be exceptionally patient, possess solid mountaineering skills, and be in top physical condition.

RMI Guides are known for their interpersonal skills and client care. We hire climbers with strong personal climbing resumes demonstrating a solid knowledge of technical alpine climbing who are patient, professional, friendly, and have a strong work ethic.

It is preferred that applicants have completed an AMGA Alpine Skills Course, Rock Guide Course, or greater.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. In an effort to diversify the outdoor industry, RMI is actively seeking qualified female, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ applicants.

Entry-Level Applicants:

Requirements for all entry-level guide applicants include:

• Significant personal alpine climbing/mountaineering experience.
• Current WFR, CPR, and Avalanche Rec 1 certifications by the start of the season.
• Participation in a personal interview held in January, February, or March.

Experienced guide applicants:

Requirements for all experienced guide applicants include:

• IFMGA and AMGA Certified Alpine Guides or significant alpine/mountaineering guiding experience.
• U.S. Pro 1 (or equivalent) Avalanche certificate.
• Participation in a personal interview.

Please note that RMI does not offer college internships or unpaid apprenticeships.

Guide Hiring Application Process

All applicants must submit the following information electronically at the time of application.

1. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
2. All guides must have received the primary COVID-19 vaccination series (1 or 2 doses, depending on the manufacturer) and provide proof of vaccination by the date of employment.
3. Complete the Employment Application.
4. Complete the Outdoor/Climbing Resume.
5. Submit a Work Availability Calendar indicating your availability for the summer guiding season.
6. Submit current Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Leave No Trace Trainer (LNT) certificates or documentation of your intent to complete (e.g., receipts, course syllabus, advertised dates, etc.). RMI will offer an LNT Trainer course as part of our pre-employment training. WFR and CPR courses are not provided as part of pre-employment training and must be obtained before employment. Certificates above and beyond these minimums will carry additional weight in the hiring process. Examples of other certifications include Avalanche Levels I, II, or III and various American Mountain Guide Association certificates.
7. Submit an application to Guide Supervisor Paul Maier at [email protected].

Once we receive these items, we will review your qualifications and certifications and notify you if we would like you to attend an online group interview.

entry-level Guide Pay and Compensation:

• Base pay is $260 per day for entry-level guides. A guide's previous guiding experience, training, and certifications will increase this base pay rate.
• Guides are tipped on average 10% of the program cost by each client they work with. While tips cannot be counted on for every program worked, most of our guides have found that tip money has remained a consistent form of income.
• Employee housing in Ashford.
• Meals are provided while working overnight programs on the mountain.
• Travel pay and travel stipends for programs in the North Cascades.
• SIMPLE IRA plan, with 3% matching, is available after one year of employment.
• Guide uniform items.
• Pro deals for clothing and equipment through top outdoor manufacturers.
• Guide training and mentoring.
• Professional Development Grants up to $1,000 for AMGA Courses.
• Advancement opportunities, with subsequent pay raises, are available as responsibilities, certifications, and performance increase.

New hire expectations:

• All newly hired guides, whether entry-level or experienced, must participate in mandatory pre-employment training. This paid training includes a thorough orientation to our company and our teaching and guiding techniques.
• Once the applicant completes this pre-employment training session, the applicant is ready to begin working. The exact start date will depend on our staffing needs.
• Entry-level guides are expected to commit to an entire season of employment, April/May/June through September.

Thank you. We very much look forward to hearing from you.

RMI Expeditions is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Forest - In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, the institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) To file a complaint of discrimination, write:

USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights
Room 326-W, Whitten Building
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410
or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD).

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Mount Rainier National Park - These services are operated in an area under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of the Interior. No discrimination by segregation or other means in the furnishing of services or privileges on the basis of race, creed, color, ancestry, sex, age, disabling condition or national origin is permitted in the use of this facility. Violations of this prohibition are punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. Address comments to:

Superintendent
Mount Rainier National Park
55210 238th Avenue East
Ashford, WA 98304

Shuttle Drivers

We are accepting applications for the 2025 Season

Why This Job Is Great:

RMI Shuttle Drivers are an integral part of everyday operations on Mt. Rainier. Our main goals are to provide excellent support for our climbers and guides while driving teams from Rainier Base Camp in Ashford, WA to Paradise in Mt. Rainier National Park.

We are very proud of the high level of customer service and logistical support provided by the RMI Shuttle Drivers. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment. In an effort to diversify the outdoor industry, RMI is actively seeking qualified female, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ applicants.

BRING YOUR EXPERTISE AND SENSE OF ADVENTURE:

Send your resume with three references to [email protected].

Minimum Requirements for RMI Shuttle Drivers:

• CDL-B certification

In addition to excellent customer service skills, typical work for this position includes:

• Excellent driving record
• Transporting climbers from Rainier Base Camp to Paradise
• Maintaining clean vehicles
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends
• Friendly and personable demeanor
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to adhere to company policies and procedures

COME JOIN OUR TEAM:

RMI is hiring for part-time and full-time Shuttle Driver positions.

• Pay starts at $18/ hour, including paid wait time (approx. $140-$175/day in wages)
• A workplace built on respect, integrity, and adventure 
• Gear and merchandise discount
• Opportunity to join climbs on Mt. Rainier and in the North Cascades
• Employee housing available in Ashford, if needed

OFFICE STAFF

We are accepting applications for the 2025 Season

Why This Job Is Great:

We help people climb mountains and achieve their goals!

The RMI Office is an integral part of everyday operations for expeditions, whether it be for climbs in our own backyard or two-week expeditions in South America.  Our main goals are to provide excellent customer service and to support our climbers and guides wherever they are in the world. We are very proud of the high level of customer service provided by the RMI Office Team.  Our climbers love our guides once they get to meet them, but the first contact comes from the office and it is important that we start their adventure off right! 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment. In an effort to diversify the outdoor industry, RMI is actively seeking qualified female, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ applicants.

In addition to excellent customer service skills, typical work for this position includes: 

• Support customers by responding to questions, general inquiries, and customer feedback
• Reviewing climber registration
• Provide customers with information on climbs, equipment, and local area information
• Perform guest check-in
• Produce forms and certificates as needed for programs
• Communicate with park services regarding program registration
• Processes payments
• Performs unique tasks as requested

BRING YOUR EXPERTISE AND SENSE OF ADVENTURE:

Here are some skills that we look for in our RMI Office Team:

• Previous customer service experience 
• Familiar with backpacking/mountaineering/skiing skills and equipment
• Effective communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 
• Ability to anticipate needs and work proactively
• Ability to perform well in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Ability to adhere to company policies and procedures
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends

COME JOIN OUR TEAM:

Our commitment remains the same as when we started out in 1969: to provide the safest mountain experience possible.  

• A workplace built on respect, integrity, and adventure 
• Gear and merchandise discount 
• Opportunity to join climbs on Mt. Rainier and in the North Cascades
• Pay ranges from $18 - $20/ hour
• Housing is available in Ashford if needed 

Send your resume with three references to [email protected].

WAREHOUSE STAFF 

We are accepting applications for the 2025 Season

Why This Job Is Great:

We help people climb mountains and achieve their goals!

The RMI Logistics Department is responsible for managing and maintaining all the food and equipment logistics needed to outfit our programs on all the mountains we climb worldwide. Our busy season is May through September, when we have many Mt. Rainier climbs and climbs in the nearby North Cascades. We spend our time in the winter preparing for Denali, conducting international climbs in the southern hemisphere, and getting ready for our next summer season. We provide our guides with what they need so they can continue making each mountain experience great. The Logistics Department is also responsible for overseeing our fleet of seven vehicles for client transportation and our three housing properties. 

We work closely with both guides and office staff as we manage a plethora of moving pieces while preparing for trips throughout the year. This involves managing a dynamic inventory in our warehouse located at Rainier Basecamp in Ashford, WA. Attention to detail and organizational skills are crucial in this role! 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment. In an effort to diversify the outdoor industry, RMI is actively seeking qualified female, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ applicants.

Expedition Logistics MANAGER:

The ideal person for this role is a versatile person who enjoys a sense of independence to adapt and solve various challenges. This role comes with a wide variety of jobs, and someone who is not afraid to learn and tackle new things will excel here. In addition to attention to detail and organization skills, typical work for this position is varied and may include: 

• Buying, stocking, and packing for all our 250 domestic, 30 international, and 10 Alaska programs 
• Keeping an inventory of over 150 items organized
• Inspecting, maintaining, and repairing equipment
• Preparing and packing mountain food
• Washing a shuttle vehicle from time to time
• Maintenance of employee housing
• Checking various communication technologies
• Inspecting and tracking climbing ropes
• Reviewing trip schedules to plan months in advance
• Receiving feedback from mountain guides

BRING YOUR EXPERTISE AND SENSE OF ADVENTURE:

Here are some skills that we look for in our RMI Expedition Logistics Manager:

• Experience managing a small team and projects
• Lots of experience using Microsoft Excel
• Well organized
• Clean driving record
• Experience buying and budgeting
• Basic construction skills
• Willingness to do a wide variety of tasks (as described above)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lb.
• Ability to stand for hours at a time
• Experience and/or an eagerness to know and learn more about the sport of mountaineering is a big plus but not required.
• Ability to adhere to company policies and procedures

COME JOIN OUR TEAM:

Our commitment remains the same as when we started out in 1969: to provide the safest mountain experience possible.  

• A workplace built on respect, integrity, and adventure 
• Gear and merchandise discount 
• Housing available in Ashford
• Living close to and adventuring in the many mountains nearby
• Positions have a 4-day workweek (four, 10-hour days), which works to maximize time off in the mountains

This full-time position pays $24/hour. This is a full-time, year-round position that will come with dental and medical after meeting the requirement of 90 days of employment. Accrued sick and vacation leave are also provided for this position. Housing will be provided for, at minimum, the climbing season months (April – September) at no cost. Our employee housing is group-style and is primarily used by our mountain guides. In addition, we offer yearly cost of living adjustments, bonuses, and pay raises based on performance.

Application INstructions: 

Please send your resume and answers to the four questions below to [email protected].

1. Microsoft Excel is a significant component of tracking our needs and equipment. Please give an example of and describe your experience using the software.

2. Sometimes, this position requires completing basic construction. Please provide an example of when you used basic construction skills to accomplish something.

3. Please give some examples of when you had to manage people.

4. Please describe a time you had to manage the buying/ordering and building needs of a business.

Expedition Logistics Assistant:

The ideal person for this role is a versatile person who enjoys a sense of independence to adapt and solve various challenges. This role comes with a wide variety of jobs, and someone who is not afraid to learn and tackle new things will excel here. In addition to attention to detail and organization skills, typical work for the Expedition Logistics Assistant position is varied and may include: 

• Inspecting, maintaining, and repairing equipment
• Preparing and packing mountain food
• Washing a shuttle vehicle
• Checking on housing facilities like mowing a lawn or replacing a lightbulb
• Checking various communication technologies
• Inspecting and tracking climbing ropes
• Reviewing trip schedules to plan a few days in advance
• Receiving feedback from mountain guides

BRING YOUR EXPERTISE AND SENSE OF ADVENTURE:

Here are some skills that we look for in our RMI Expedition Logistics Assistant:

• Ability to work and communicate effectively with a small team
• Ability to stay busy with minimal direction 
• Willingness to do a wide variety of tasks (as described above)
• Experience with Microsoft Office
• Ability to lift up to 50 lb.
• Ability to stand for hours at a time
• Experience and/or an eagerness to know and learn more about the sport of mountaineering is a big plus but not required.
• Ability to adhere to company policies and procedures

COME JOIN OUR TEAM:

Our commitment remains the same as when we started out in 1969: to provide the safest mountain experience possible.  

• A workplace built on respect, integrity, and adventure 
• Gear and merchandise discount 
• Housing available in Ashford
• Living close to and adventuring in the many mountains nearby
• Positions have a 4-day workweek (four, 10-hour days), which works to maximize time off in the mountains

This seasonal position pays $17-$19/hour and typically runs April through September with flexible start/end dates. From time to time, we also need help during our winter season preparing for international trips and our Alaska summer programs.

Send your resume with three references to [email protected].

senior accountant 

We are accepting applications for thIs POSITION

company overview:

RMI Expeditions is one of the largest mountain guiding services in the United States, providing exceptional outdoor experiences to adventure-seekers across the globe. As a leader in the industry, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality service, exceptional safety standards, and outstanding expedition experiences. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Senior Accountant to join our team and play a key role in overseeing and managing our financial operations.

job summary:

As the Senior Accountant at RMI Expeditions, you will play a critical role in managing day-to-day accounting functions, financial reporting, and analysis. You will ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and contribute to financial forecasting, budgeting, and strategic financial planning. This hands-on role requires a deep understanding of accounting processes, the ability to work across departments, and keen attention to detail.

key responsibilities:

accounting & Financial reporting:

• Oversee the execution of accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, revenue recognition, and journal entries.
• Prepare and assist with monthly financial statements and balance sheet analysis.
• Perform account reconciliations and ensure the accuracy of account balances.
• Review and process credit card charges and staff reimbursements.
• Prepare and enter journal entries in accordance with accounting principles.

payroll & cash management:

• Manage bi-weekly payroll processing and related payroll duties.
• Oversee cash handling and maintain cash flow projections.
• Reconcile 4-6 bank accounts and assist with daily banking activity and bank reconciliations.

budgeting & forecasting:

• Assist in the preparation and analysis of the annual budget and forecast reports
• Develop and monitor financial forecasting models to ensure accurate projections.
• Identify and implement efficiency improvements and cost-saving measures across departments.

compliance & audit:

• Monitor and enforce compliance with GAAP and internal accounting policies and procedures.
• Assist with annual audits and financial reviews.
• Prepare and submit necessary tax filings, including personal property tax returns and unclaimed property filings.

vendor & stakeholder relations:

• Manage vendor setup and maintain vendor records.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with vendors, external auditors, and business partners.

financial software & systems:

• Assist in maintaining and implementing financial software solutions used for revenue recognition and accounting processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation and filing systems for all accounting records.

special projects:

• Lead or assist with ad-hoc financial projects, analysis, and process improvements as assigned by management.
• Support strategic financial initiatives and provide financial insights to other department heads.

minimum requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in accounting or finance management, with at least 3 years of experience overseeing company-wide accounting functions.
• Industry Experience: Experience with multi-departmental and/or multi-entity accounting.
• Technical Skills: Strong knowledge of GAAP, and extensive experience with accounting software (Great Plains or similar is required).
• Payroll Experience: Experience with payroll processing and related functions.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of management and staff.
• Organization & Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a high attention to detail.

knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong understanding of accounting principles, practices, and procedures.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and accounting software (experience with Great Plains or similar software is required).
• Ability to manage complex financial transactions and analyze financial data.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to manage diverse financial challenges.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in handling sensitive financial information.
• A proactive, self-motivated, and team-oriented attitude with strong multitasking abilities.

computer skills:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (advanced level).
• Experience with accounting software (e.g., Great Plains, QuickBooks, etc.).
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software systems.

language skills:

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional documents, financial reports, and legal materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

mathematical skills:

• Proficient in basic and advanced arithmetic, algebra, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to apply these mathematical concepts in real-world business scenarios.

reasoning ability:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to interpret and assimilate information from multiple sources.
• Ability to think critically and make sound decisions based on data analysis.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan.
• Opportunity to work with a passionate, dynamic team in an exciting and fast-growing organization.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant supporting documents to [email protected].

RMI Expeditions is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply.