Backcountry Guide - Expression of Interest

Since opening recruitment in June 2025, we have successfully filled most of our Guiding positions for the 2025/2026 winter season. We are still accepting expressions of interest, so please register your details here should a position become available.Reporting: The Backcountry Guide will report to the Backcountry Program ManagerLocation: NisekoContract TermPlease select your preference in the application questionsFull Time Guide - Job assignments for Lift Accessed Backcountry & Backcountry Touring onlyPart Time Guide & Snowsports Instructor - a combination of backcountry guiding assignments & lesson assignments, with backcountry guiding as your primary work departmentContract period: December 1 2025 - 12 April 2026*Note: Preseason training may be scheduled earlier and will be confirmed in your contractAbout UsRhythm 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 RoleAs 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 ResponsibilitiesGuidingIn 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 experienceConduct safety management briefing with guests & ensure understanding of basic rescue proceduresAssess & navigate safe routes in the backcountry while maximising the opportunity for epic experiences for our guestsConstantly assess and adapt to changing snow conditions, weather to keep all touring members safeClear communication of the plan & changes to all interested parties, including management & guestsA passion for personal development. Actively seek to improve personal skiing/riding skills, teaching/guiding skills and knowledgeUnderstand and comply with company operating policies and procedures.Guest ServicesEndeavour 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 experienceDriving guests from their accommodations to a variety of locations as part of the trip (eg, Rhythm Store, tour location)Snowsports InstructionSnowsports instruction to improve the guest's powder experience as required/requestedSnowsports instruction of private lessons & other products as required, please see here for more info Responsibilities for safetyPromote safety and give students the knowledge to remain safe when they leave lessons to ski/ride on their ownHold a core respect and understanding for mountain safety, along with a passion for cultivating these practices in our guestsFollow our Mountain Safety Policy and other operational daily practices to ensure a safe workplace for yourself and our guestsPromptly communicate any safety concerns to your manager both on and off the mountain as/when they are identifiedWhat you’ll need to succeedA passion for the mountains, our community and our sport, you will hold an intense fire for passing this on to others. Lets 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 goalsYou’re a professional and always seeking to grow and expand your skills and contribute to the growth of Rhythm RidesBe a good human and recognise that service is key to our industry. You’re a problem solver and are passionate about our guests' experienceAbility 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 goExperience & competence in safely driving in snowy/wintery conditionsQualifications/skillsNative or fluent level of EnglishBilingual Japanese/English is highly regarded40 hours of first aid qualification or willingness to complete before employmentAST Level 2 Minimum for resort/slackcountry guiding assignments, or CAA or NZ operations level 1 or equivalent for backcountry guiding assignmentsMinimum Ski or Snowboard level 3 or equivalent from a recognised ISIA member*Able to work on snow for extended periods/days and conditions and maintain a reasonable level of healthFull Driver's Licence & ability to obtain an International Driver’s Permit or Japanese LicenceLegal right to work in Japan, or eligibility to receive a work visa.The Perks and BenefitsAboutAs 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.First NameLast NameEmailPhoneCover LetterNo file selectedResumeNo file selectedHow did you hear about Rhythm? Did someone refer you, if so, who?Please Select Your Residence Or Visa StatusI'm a Japanese Citizen or Resident with working rightsI am eligible for or already hold a Japan Working Holiday VisaI require a Sponsored Work Visa & have 36 months of teaching experienceI already hold a valid sponsored working visa & can transfer itWhere are you currently based?Do you have experience in the role you're applying for?YesNo, but I'd love to gain someHow many seasons have you completed teaching/guiding in paid employment?What is your highest certification?Level 1 - Certified to teach beginnersLevel 2 - Cetified to teach intermediateLevel 3 - Certificated to teach advancedLevel 4 - Certified to teach all levelsMy Primary Preference For Department IsKids programsPrivate programsVartiery! I like to work across all programsDo you hold any of the below qualifications?Wilderness First Responder or 80 hour first aid equivalentAvalanche Operations Level 1 or equivalentOther Guiding QualificationsCoaching QualificationsInstructor Trainer/Examiner QualificationI would like to be considered forFull Time Guide - Job assignments for Lift Accessed Backcountry & Backcountry Touring onlyPart Time Guide & Snowsports Instructor - a combination of backcountry guiding assignments & lesson assignments, with backcountry guiding as your primary work departmentEither full-time guide or part part-time guideEarliest available start date and latest finish date?We have a variety of contract types available; please let us know your preferred work days (on average)2-3 days (not eligible for staff accommodation)3-4 days (not eligible for staff accommodation)5 days6 daysDo you have a valid driving license, and will be comfortable to drive on snow/ice?YesNoWhat language/s can you teach/guide in?Do you require staff accomodation?YesNoPlease upload your relevant certificationsNo files selectedAny other comments?Are you applying with a partner or friend, if so, what is their name?Have you previously worked for our parent company evo (North America), or Rhythm Cooma (Australia)? If so, provide details.I understand this application is expression of interest only and I will not be contacted regarding this application unless a role becomes available.*Thank YouYour application was submitted successfully