Resort and Backcountry Guide

Those requiring a sponsored work visa, applications close July 31st, 2026

Job Description

Position Title: Resort and Backcountry Guide

Location: Niseko (all products) or

Furano (only LABC and BC Touring)

Reports to: The Backcountry Guide will report to the Backcountry Programs Manager

• Resort and Slack country guiding (LABC)
• Backcountry Touring
  

Contract Term: December 1 2026  - 11 April 2027*

Note: The start and Pre-season training may be scheduled +/- 3 days and will be confirmed in your contract

Contract Types: Please select your preference in the application questions

• Full-Time Guide - Job assignments for Lift Accessed Backcountry & Backcountry Touring only (with the exception of pre-season or low BC season, where you will be required to work on Private products)
• Part-Time Guide & Snowsports Instructor - a combination of backcountry guiding assignments & lesson assignments, with backcountry guiding as your primary work department

Salary: Depends on Experience 

About Us

Rhythm is about creating epic experiences for our customers, which starts with our people. We live by our values and put people first. We take pride in creating working and living environments that foster innovation, adventure, and balance. Working at Rhythm is more than a job, it's an experience you will have forever.

The Role

As a Rhythm Guide,  you will be responsible for delivering our on-mountain experiences for our guests through delivering our in-resort, slackcountry & backcountry guiding products. We want our customers to experience the ultimate mountain experience with an emphasis on safety & we are looking for passionate & experienced professionals who can light the fire in others.

Key Responsibilities and Duties 

Guiding

• In collaboration with the Lead Guide, you will be responsible for formulating a trip plan, which will assess the guest's goals/ability & snow conditions to create a safe and enjoyable experience
• Conduct safety management briefing with guests & ensure understanding of basic rescue procedures
• Assess & navigate safe routes in the backcountry while maximising the opportunity for epic experiences for our guests
• Constantly assess and adapt to changing snow conditions, weather and mountain operation to keep all members safe
• Clear communication of the plan & changes to all interested parties, including management & guests
• A passion for personal development. Actively seek to improve personal skiing/riding skills, teaching/guiding skills and knowledge
• Understand and comply with company operating policies and procedures.

Guest Services

• Endeavour to ensure our guests' mountain experience is at the highest level expected by Rhythm and in line with Rhythm’s Core brand and values 
• Support the guest with both on-snow and off-snow service-related tasks that enhance their mountain experience
• Driving guests from their accommodations to a variety of locations as part of the trip (eg, Rhythm Store, tour location)

Snowsports Instruction

• Snowsports instruction to improve the guest's powder experience as required/requested
• Snowsports instruction of private lessons & other products as required, please see here for more info 

Responsibilities for safety

• Promote safety and give students the knowledge to remain safe when they leave guiding/lessons to ski/ride on their own
• Hold a core respect and understanding for mountain safety, along with a passion for cultivating these practices in our guests
• Follow our Mountain Safety Policy and other operational daily practices to ensure a safe workplace for yourself and our guests
• Promptly communicate any safety concerns to your manager both on and off the mountain as/when they are identified

What You Need to Succeed 

• A passion for the mountains, our community and our sport, you will hold an intense fire for passing this on to others. Let's light the fire inside. 
• You will need excellent interpersonal skills. Your objective is not only to guide people in epic powder terrain but also to enhance their overall resort experience and ensure that they are having fun on the slopes and meeting their goals
• You’re a professional and always seeking to grow and expand your skills and contribute to the growth of Rhythm Rides
• Be a good human and recognise that great service is key to our industry. 
• You’re a problem solver and are passionate about our guests' experience
• Ability to guide & teach a variety of guests' ability/skill levels 
• Safety-minded and level-headed. Having the ability to constantly read, adapt and adjust plans to each situation to ensure all party members come back safely every time.
• Solutions driven- You thrive on a challenge and can problem solve on the go
• Experience & competence in safely driving in snowy/wintery conditions
• Be a proactive team player by supporting others whenever needed. 
• Maintain respect for colleagues at all times, both inside and outside the workplace. Should any issues arise, please address them professionally with the appropriate team.
  
  

Qualifications

• Native or fluent level of English
• Bilingual Japanese/English is highly regarded
• You’re a people person and love interacting with and helping people
• Minimum Ski level 2 or equivalent from a recognised ISIA member
• Minimum two seasons of teaching experience at a recognised snowsports school.
• Able to work on snow for extended periods/days and conditions, and maintain a reasonable level of fitness
• A full driver's licence and the ability to obtain an International driver's permit (IDP) for Japan are required to teach some of our products (lessons, premium lessons, kids program, guiding experiences) and operational duties. You will need to be comfortable to drive in the snowy conditions.
• Legal right to work in Japan, or eligibility to receive a work visa.
  

The Perks and Benefits 

As a Rhythm employee, you’ll experience the same legendary hospitality we extend to our guests. We’re passionate about looking after our crew, and here are just a few of the perks you’ll enjoy when you join our team:

• Live, Work, and Play in Paradise: Immerse yourself in one of the world’s top mountain resorts.
• Work with a Legendary Crew: Join a team that’s passionate, fun-loving, and deeply connected to the industry.
• Subsidized Staff Accommodation: Affordable housing options and housing assistance to help you settle in.
• Epic Social Scene: From team ride days and department dinners to staff parties, events, and day trips, our social calendar is packed with opportunities to connect and unwind.
• Wellness and Lifestyle Benefits: Access the Rhythm Wellness program, enjoy free snowsports or bike demos, and take advantage of generous store discounts for you, your friends, and your family.

At Rhythm, we work hard, but we play even harder. If you know anyone who’s worked with us before, they’ll tell you this isn’t just a job- it’s an experience of a lifetime. Our fun, supportive culture is the heart of everything we do because people like you make Rhythm what it is.

Ready to join?

If you have the skills, the flair, and the stoke (enthusiasm) to share, we want to hear from you! Your passion for adventure and alignment with our core values could be the perfect fit for an unforgettable experience.

If you have any specific questions or require further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out.