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Backpack Guide Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Backpack Guide information

See Austin, TX salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do backpack guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for backpack guide in Austin, TX is $14.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Backpack Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backpack Guide, you need strong outdoor survival skills, wilderness navigation experience, and certifications in first aid or wilderness medicine. Familiarity with GPS devices, map and compass navigation, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles are typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and decision-making skills help guide groups safely and foster a positive experience. These abilities are crucial for ensuring client safety, managing unexpected challenges, and delivering memorable outdoor adventures.

What is the difference between Backpack Guide vs Tour Guide?

AspectBackpack GuideTour Guide
CredentialsOften requires outdoor or adventure certifications, first aid, and sometimes language skillsTypically needs tourism or hospitality certifications, language skills, and local knowledge
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, trekking routes, adventure parksIndoor and outdoor sites, museums, city tours
Employer & IndustryAdventure travel companies, outdoor tour operatorsTravel agencies, sightseeing companies, museums
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing outdoor adventure rolesPeople interested in city or cultural tours

The main difference between a Backpack Guide and a Tour Guide lies in their work environment and required skills. Backpack Guides focus on outdoor, adventure-based settings, often requiring outdoor certifications, while Tour Guides typically operate in urban or cultural sites with hospitality or tourism credentials. Both roles serve travelers but cater to different experiences and settings.

How much does a backpacking guide make?

A backpacking guide typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and the type of tours or expeditions. Guides often need certifications in first aid and outdoor skills, and may work seasonal or part-time schedules.

What are some common challenges faced by backpack guides during multi-day trips?

Backpack guides often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, ensuring group safety, and managing diverse skill levels among participants. They must be well-prepared to handle unexpected situations, like injuries or route changes, while keeping morale high and maintaining a positive group dynamic. Effective communication, sound judgment, and strong leadership are essential for successfully overcoming these obstacles and providing a memorable, safe experience for all participants.

What does a backpack guide do?

A backpack guide is a professional who leads individuals or groups on multi-day hiking or trekking trips, often in remote or wilderness areas. Their responsibilities include planning routes, ensuring the safety of participants, providing information about the local environment, and helping with camping logistics such as setting up tents and preparing meals. Backpack guides are trained in first aid, navigation, and outdoor survival skills to handle emergencies and enhance the experience for their clients. They also educate hikers about Leave No Trace principles and the natural or cultural history of the areas visited.
What are popular job titles related to Backpack Guide jobs in Austin, TX? For Backpack Guide jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backpack Guide jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Backpack Guide jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Backpack Guide jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Backpack Guide job openings:
Infographic showing various Backpack Guide job openings in Austin, TX as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% As Needed, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,061 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Landscape Maintenance Crew Leader

LUSA HOLDINGS

Austin, TX

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Landscape Maintenance Crew Leader
Location: Austin, TX 78737
Employment Type: Full-Time
Pay Rate: $20-$23/ Hourly (based on experience)
Call us at 512-203-8073 to set up an interview, if you do not get an answer please leave a text and we will call you back in the order we received your call. Thanks, recruitment team 

Elements has an immediate opening for a Full-Time Landscape Maintenance Crew Leader in Austin, TX 78737. We are seeking a hard-working, dependable individual who is committed to growing with our company. The ideal candidate is reliable, willing to work year-round, and looking to build a long-term career in the commercial landscaping industry.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and supervise a commercial landscaping crew on daily job assignments
  • Operate and oversee the use of landscaping equipment, including dump trucks, trucks with trailers, backpack blowers, tillers, chainsaws, hand pruners, pole pruners, gas-powered shears, and other landscape tools
  • Perform and oversee commercial landscape maintenance and enhancement work
  • Install landscape enhancements, including seasonal color and plant materials
  • Ensure job sites are safe, organized, and compliant with company and OSHA standards
  • Enforce the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on all job sites
  • Train, guide, and motivate crew members to maintain productivity and quality standards
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and report job progress or issues
     

What we offer:

  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off/paid holidays 

Requirements

  • 2-5 years experience in landscape maintenance
  • Previous experience as a crew leader (at least 3 years)  
  • Valid Drivers License with a clean driving record