ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backpack Guide Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

All JobsBackpack Guide JobsBackpack Guide Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Backpack Guide information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do backpack guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for backpack guide in Minneapolis, MN is $15.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.07 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.

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 Minneapolis, MN?

For Backpack Guide jobs in Minneapolis, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backpack Guide jobs in Minneapolis, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Backpack Guide jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

What cities near Minneapolis, MN are hiring for Backpack Guide jobs?

Cities near Minneapolis, MN with the most Backpack Guide job openings:

Backpack Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backpack Guide job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,709 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Grounds Maintenance Crew Lead

Prescription Landscape

Shakopee, MN • On-site

$20 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
Are you a natural leader with a passion for outdoor work and landscaping? We're seeking a reliable and experienced Grounds Maintenance Crew Lead to guide our team! In this role, you'll be responsible for both leadership and hands-on landscaping tasks, ensuring our crews deliver high-quality results for our clients. If you're ready to lead a team and contribute to maintaining beautiful landscapes, we want to hear from you!
Why Join Our Team?
✅ Competitive Pay + Overtime Eligibility – Earn great wages with overtime potential.
✅ Leadership amp; Growth – Take on a leadership role and help develop a skilled team while advancing your own career.
✅ Hands-On Experience – Work with a variety of landscaping equipment and learn new techniques.
✅ Team-Oriented Culture – Collaborate with a crew that values integrity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
✅ Make an Impact – Ensure properties are well-maintained and meet high standards.
What You’ll Do:

Quality Control:
Lead and guide crew members in performing grounds maintenance tasks, ensuring work is done to high-quality standards.
Clear sites of debris such as trash, limbs, and rocks in preparation for mowing, weed whipping, and edging.
Perform landscaping tasks including weeding, pruning, and removing debris from flower beds and shrub areas.
Operate mowers and equipment to maintain turf and edge grass along curbs and walkways.
Conduct a final walkthrough to ensure that all work is completed according to specifications and on time.
Production Management:
Interface with customers and Account Managers regarding on-site operations, production requests, and any performance concerns.
Identify ways to improve quality and efficiency, and discuss these ideas with the Production Manager.
Stay flexible in scheduling to meet customer expectations.
Arrive 15 minutes prior to crew start time to prepare for the day and ensure smooth operations.
Provide job site notes upon completion of maintenance tasks and contribute to tailgate talks with crew regarding property observations and production concerns.
Staff Management:
Assist the Production Manager in training and developing crew members to enhance their skills and performance.
Log crew members in and out of Aspire daily.
Provide feedback on crew performance to the Production Manager.
Monitor crew safety and make in-field corrections as needed.
Operational Policies amp; Procedures:
Complete work in Aspire according to assigned work tickets and report any issues as needed.
Document completed work with photographic evidence in Aspire.
Perform grounds maintenance Quality Assurance (QA) checks using Sitefotos.
Safety Responsibilities:
Assist with the organization, cleaning, and basic upkeep of facilities, equipment, trucks, and trailers.
Report any safety concerns or violations to the Production Manager.
Operate grounds maintenance equipment safely, including push mowers, string trimmers, power edgers, and backpack blowers.
Complete and maintain all assigned Greenius safety training.
Wear appropriate safety clothing and equipment during tasks.
Perform preventative equipment checks before use to ensure safe operation.
Maintain cleanliness of vehicles and equipment and ensure safety materials (like first aid kits) are stocked and in good condition.
What We’re Looking For:
✔️ Leadership Skills – Proven ability to lead and mentor a team.
✔️ Physical Stamina – Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs independently and 80 lbs with assistance.
✔️ Horticultural Knowledge – Basic understanding of landscaping and grounds maintenance practices.
✔️ Strong Communication – Clear and efficient communication with clients, crew members, and supervisors.
✔️ Safety-Conscious – Understanding of safety protocols and commitment to following them.
✔️ Self-Motivated amp; Dependable – Able to work with minimal supervision, report to work on time, and handle daily responsibilities efficiently.
✔️ Pesticide License – Willingness to obtain a Category A amp; E Pesticide Applicator License within one year.
Your Schedule:
Average workweek: 8-10 hours per day, Monday to Friday, with flexibility depending on weather conditions and customer needs.
Possible Weekend Work: Occasional weekends may be required to complete work.
Ready to Lead Our Grounds Maintenance Crew?
If you’re ready to take on a leadership role, guide a team, and contribute to the beauty of Minnesota's landscapes, apply today to join our team as a Grounds Maintenance Crew Lead!

Apply