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Lead Tour Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

New Shoreham, RI · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Ashland, VA · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Plattsburgh, NY · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Saratoga Springs, NY · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Dover, DE · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Princess Anne, MD · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Remington, VA · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Providence, RI · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Washington, DC · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Newport, RI · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Cliff Island, ME · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Plattsburgh, NY · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Ocean City, MD · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

US Ghost Adventures

Tour Guide

Cliff Island, ME · On-site

$40 - $80/hr

We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city. Ghost ...

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All JobsLead Tour Guide Jobs

Lead Tour Guide information

See salary details

$8

$18

$33

How much do lead tour guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead 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.

How much do tour guides get paid per day?

Lead tour guides typically earn between $100 and $300 per day, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the type of tours they lead. Pay may also include tips from customers and can vary based on the tour company's policies and the length of the tour day.

What is the highest salary for a tour guide?

The highest salaries for lead tour guides can reach around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, often in high-demand tourist destinations or specialized tour sectors. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the type of tours offered influence earning potential, with some guides earning tips or commissions that significantly boost income.

What are Lead Tour Guides?

Lead Tour Guides are professionals responsible for organizing, directing, and managing tours for groups of visitors. They provide engaging commentary, ensure the safety and satisfaction of participants, and often supervise other tour guides. Lead Tour Guides are knowledgeable about the locations they cover, handling logistics, answering questions, and addressing any issues that arise during the tour. Their role may also include planning itineraries and coordinating with vendors or travel partners.

What is the difference between Lead Tour Guide vs Tour Guide?

AspectLead Tour GuideTour Guide
CredentialsMay require additional certifications or training in leadership and first aidStandard tour guiding certifications or none
Work EnvironmentLeads groups, manages tour logistics, and supervises other guidesConducts tours, provides information, and interacts with tourists
Employer & Industry UsageOften employed by tour companies, museums, or parks to oversee toursEmployed by similar organizations to lead individual tours

The main difference between a Lead Tour Guide and a Tour Guide is that the Lead Tour Guide typically has additional responsibilities such as supervising other guides, managing tour logistics, and sometimes requiring extra certifications. While both roles involve engaging with tourists and providing information, the Lead Tour Guide often acts as a team leader, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality experiences.

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

To thrive as a Lead Tour Guide, you need in-depth knowledge of tour locations, strong storytelling skills, and often prior experience or relevant certifications in hospitality or tourism. Familiarity with booking software, audio guide systems, and scheduling tools is typically expected. Exceptional communication, leadership, and customer service abilities help engage groups and manage diverse audiences. These skills ensure memorable experiences, efficient tour operations, and positive guest satisfaction.

How much do tour guides get paid?

Tour guides typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $10 to $25, with average annual salaries between $20,000 and $50,000 depending on location, experience, and the type of tours they lead. Tips often supplement income and can significantly increase total earnings. Certification and knowledge of the area can also influence pay rates.

How does a Lead Tour Guide typically collaborate with other team members to ensure a smooth tour experience?

A Lead Tour Guide works closely with co-guides, operations staff, and sometimes even local vendors to coordinate the logistics and flow of each tour. They are responsible for assigning roles, communicating the day's itinerary, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the tour. Regular briefings before and after each tour help ensure everyone is informed and prepared. By fostering open communication and teamwork, the Lead Tour Guide ensures guests have a memorable and seamless experience.

How to get hired as a tour guide?

To get hired as a lead tour guide, candidates typically need excellent communication skills, a good knowledge of the tour area, and often a relevant certification or license. Previous experience in customer service or guiding tours can be advantageous, and some employers may require background checks or first aid certification. Applying through company websites, job boards, or local tourism offices is common.
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Lead Tour Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Tour Guide job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,124 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Tour Guide

US Ghost Adventures

New Shoreham, RI • On-site

$40 - $80/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Title: Tour Guide
Location: New Shoreham, RI 
Are you brave enough to be a ghost tour guide? Ready to share incredible experiences in your city as you bewitch and enchant audiences? Then embrace the shadows and become our next ghost tour guide! 

Our passion at US Ghost Adventures is enchanting storytelling. We specialize in dark, forgotten, and secret history. We are looking for creatives, history buffs, true crime junkies, and paranormal enthusiasts willing to dive deeper into the dark side of humanity. We thrive on igniting a sense of wonder in every guest on our ghost tours, and as a ghost tour guide you will weave enthralling stories as you lead tours down the ghastly streets of your city.

Ghost Tour Guide Pay & Benefits:

  • $40 - $150 per tour (including tips)
  • TIPS!! These can range from $20 to over $100 for a 1-2 hour tour
  • Cash bonuses for good reviews
  • Free or discounted tours for you and close family/friends all over the country
  • Flexible schedules, fun part-time work, ability to earn tips in addition to pay
  • The chance to get to know your city and meet a lot of fun people from all over the country!

To learn more about our Ghost Tour Guide here is a short video:


Ghost Tour Guide Requirements
  • Qualified candidates should be skilled in public speaking
  • Applicants should reside near downtown (within 25 miles) and have reliable transportation
  • Applicants should be passionate about storytelling and history

US Ghost Adventures offers entertaining, historic, and authentic ghost tours of the United States' most haunted cities – over 100 cities and counting! We aim to deliver fun yet honest accounts of the hauntings that are so prevalent nationwide. While our stories are derived from historic research, a ghost tour wouldn’t be the same without the ghost stories from our guide network across the country.
 

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