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American Tour Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Farmington, UT · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Coinjock, NC · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Newport, RI · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Vidalia, LA · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Boston, MA · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Washington, DC · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

The Dalles, OR · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Davenport, IA · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Henderson, KY · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

New London, CT · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Marietta, OH · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Sandy, UT · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Chester, IL · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Tampa, FL · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Wheeling, WV · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

Henderson, KY · On-site

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

American Cruise Lines

Travel Director

The Dalles, OR

Travel Director/Adventure Guide - National Parks American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors ... Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality ...

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American Tour Guide information

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How much do american tour guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for american tour guide in the United States is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for an American Tour Guide?

As an American Tour Guide, your workday often involves greeting tour groups, leading them through historical sites or attractions, and sharing engaging information along the way. You may be responsible for managing time, answering questions, and ensuring the group follows safety protocols. Many guides work with other guides, transportation providers, or customer service staff, especially during large tours or peak seasons. Flexibility is essential, as schedules can vary with group size, weather, or special events. The role offers the chance to meet people from around the world and develop strong presentation and organizational skills.

How to become a tour guide in the USA?

To become a tour guide in the USA, individuals typically need to complete any state-specific licensing or certification requirements, which may include passing a background check and a training program. Strong communication skills, knowledge of local history and attractions, and the ability to engage groups are essential; some employers also prefer guides with a valid driver's license or language skills.

How much does a tour guide make in America?

The average salary for an American tour guide is around $25,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of tours they lead. Many guides work part-time or seasonally, and tips can significantly increase overall earnings. Certification and strong communication skills can also impact income levels.

How much does a tour guide pay?

The average pay for an American tour guide ranges from $12 to $25 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the type of tours offered. Many guides also earn tips from customers, which can significantly increase total earnings. Some guides work part-time or seasonally, and certifications or specialized knowledge can influence pay rates.

Are tour guides in demand?

Tour guides are generally in steady demand in the travel and hospitality industry, especially in popular tourist destinations and during peak seasons. Employment opportunities often depend on the local tourism industry, language skills, and certifications such as tour guide licenses or training programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the American Tour Guide position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an American Tour Guide, you need in-depth knowledge of local history, geography, and attractions, typically supported by fluency in English and potentially additional languages. Familiarity with booking systems, microphone equipment, and tour scheduling software is often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, such as storytelling, adaptability, and customer service, help guides connect with diverse groups. These competencies ensure memorable experiences for tourists while maintaining organization and safety throughout each tour.

What is an American Tour Guide job?

An American Tour Guide leads visitors through historical sites, cities, or attractions, providing informative and engaging commentary. They ensure guests have a memorable experience by sharing facts, stories, and cultural insights. Tour guides may work for travel companies, museums, or as independent guides. The role often involves planning itineraries, answering questions, and coordinating group logistics. Strong communication skills and knowledge of local history and geography are essential.

More about American Tour Guide jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of American Tour Guide jobs? The most popular types of American Tour Guide jobs are:
What states have the most American Tour Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for American Tour Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching American Tour Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for American Tour Guide jobs are:
American Tour Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various American Tour Guide job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, and 71% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,124 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Travel Director

Travel Director

American Cruise Lines

Farmington, UT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Travel Director/Adventure Guide – National Parks
American Cruise Lines is seeking Travel Directors to join our shipboard team for the 2026 cruising season. The Travel Director role is responsible for engaging guests in each destination through a series of explorations and adventures throughout the National Parks. As a Travel Director you are responsible and accountable for all land exploration, transfer operations, and brand ambassadorship amp; representation. The Travel Director is the most visible advocate for guests and is responsible for creating a fun atmosphere while always engaging guests and socializing throughout the land exploration.

This role has a very high level of guest interaction and can be very demanding, with long hours. The role requires an energetic and creative person with extraordinarily polished communications amp; social skills, a collaborative team spirit and a passion for guest satisfaction.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Available Regions:
  • National Parks amp; Legendary Rivers itinerary: Yellowstone, Glacier amp; Grand Teton
  • Great Smoky Mountains
  • Northwest National Parks: Mt. Rainier, Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park
  • Alaska National Parks
Responsibilities:
  • Lead guests through their daily National Parks explorations while acting as a company representative and brand ambassador.
  • Provide narration and commentary throughout the National Parks, giving accurate and relevant information and facts about the parks, history, nature, and wildlife.
  • Effectively communicate with guests about the schedule, weather, and activity levels.
  • Create daily programs to give to guests to explain what each day entails.
  • Create and execute entertainment, such as trivia and games, on board the motorcoach.
  • Assist guests with minor medical attention.
  • Accommodate all reasonable guest requests.
  • Socialize with guests at every opportunity.
  • Communicate with home office frequently, including completing weekly reports, relaying information about early guest departures (if applicable), or changes in schedule/plans.
  • Prepare materials for turnaround day.
  • Monitor and evaluate performance of vendors, coach companies, and guides and send feedback to home office.
  • Candidates will be required to work onboard as an Excursions Director for 4–6 weeks prior to their assignment as a Tour Director in order to become fully assimilated with the company and onboard operations.
Attributes for Success:
  • Ability to engage guests throughout each cruise.
  • Superior time management.
  • Ability to manage and solve problems.
  • Sense of urgency in all guest, crew, and home office requests.
  • Positive attitude and receptive to continuous performance feedback.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in hospitality, tourism, or event management is preferred.
  • Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred.
  • Significant experience in hospitality, tourism, and/or event management.
  • Strong sense of production and presentation.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications.
  • Enthusiasm, confidence, and a can-do attitude.
  • Strong public speaking skills.
  • Excellent time management and attention to detail.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 6-8 weeks working / 1-2 weeks off.
  • 7 days per week while working.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12-14 hours per day, and be on call at all times for any guest emergencies.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an emergency including:
    • Assisting with minor medical issues, including altitude sickness or minor injuries.
    • Identify and arrange medical assistance in remote areas.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to walk around 10 miles at high altitude, sometimes up to 7600 ft, in various types of terrain and weather conditions.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to work outside during inclement weather, staying agile, and maintaining balance over wet terrain.
  • Ability to work outside with frequent and direct sun and heat exposure.
  • Ability to live and work in a constantly moving environment, including changing hotels every 2-3 nights.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training from industry experts.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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