Put-in
A Put-in is the starting point where rafts, kayaks, or other river craft enter the water to begin a river trip. In river rafting job descriptions, this term is essential because it refers to a crucial location where guides must safely load passengers and equipment to start the journey. It's similar to a departure point or launch site, but specifically used in river activities. Understanding put-in locations is vital as they often determine trip logistics, safety briefing areas, and where guides need to prepare their equipment and guests.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily put-in operations for groups of 50+ guests at Colorado River access points
Conducted safety briefings at put-in locations for whitewater rafting trips
Coordinated with shuttle drivers to ensure smooth put-in timing for multiple trip departures
Typical job title: "River Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find River Guides
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Lead Guide Level Questions
Q: How do you manage multiple groups at a busy put-in location during peak season?
Expected Answer: A lead guide should discuss organizing staging areas, coordinating with shuttle drivers, establishing efficient loading procedures, and maintaining safety standards while handling multiple groups.
Q: What factors do you consider when assessing a put-in location's safety?
Expected Answer: Should explain checking water levels, identifying hazards, considering weather conditions, evaluating access points for different skill levels, and managing guest safety during loading.
Experienced Guide Level Questions
Q: How do you organize equipment and guests at a put-in site?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper boat positioning, equipment organization, guest management techniques, and efficient loading procedures while maintaining safety.
Q: What is your pre-launch routine at a put-in site?
Expected Answer: Should cover safety talks, equipment checks, guest orientation, and coordination with other guides and shuttle drivers.
Novice Guide Level Questions
Q: What safety equipment should be checked at the put-in?
Expected Answer: Should list basic safety gear like life jackets, throw ropes, first aid kits, and demonstrate understanding of pre-trip equipment checks.
Q: How do you help nervous guests at the put-in location?
Expected Answer: Should discuss communication skills, reassurance techniques, clear safety instructions, and building trust with guests.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic put-in procedures
- Safety equipment checks
- Guest briefing assistance
- Equipment loading and organizing
Mid (2-4 years)
- Independent put-in management
- Group coordination
- Efficient loading procedures
- Weather and water level assessment
Senior (5+ years)
- Multiple group management
- Staff coordination at put-in
- Emergency situation handling
- Training other guides on put-in procedures
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to demonstrate proper safety procedures at put-in locations
- Poor communication skills with guests during orientation
- Lack of knowledge about local river access regulations
- Disorganized approach to equipment and guest management
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