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Outdoor Activity Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bike Park Instructor

VA · On-site

$13/hr

Experience instructing and guiding people in riding mountain bikes or other outdoor activities * Basic bike maintenance * Prior customer service experience Job-Type: Seasonal Typical Schedule Days:

Golf Instructor

Nokesville, VA · On-site

$12.77/hr

May perform all club golf activities including junior golf clinics. * May assist in the development ... Frequently works in outdoor weather conditions. Noise level is moderate. Certificates/Licenses:

... outdoor activities, including shuttle routes. o Maintain the ability to check the daily schedule in ... instructor. * Should be comfortable working with a wide range of audiences and be able to adjust ...

Golf Instructor

Nokesville, VA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

May perform all club golf activities including junior golf clinics. * May assist in the development ... Frequently works in outdoor weather conditions. Noise level is moderate. Certificates/Licenses:

Lifeguard

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Supervise a group of 10-20 swimmers (on average) as a lifeguard and/or swim instructor. * Instruct ... Desire and ability to work in an outdoor environment Generally weekdays through Summer 2025

Lifeguard

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Supervise a group of 10-20 swimmers (on average) as a lifeguard and/or swim instructor. * Instruct ... Desire and ability to work in an outdoor environment Generally weekdays through Summer 2025

Tennis Pro

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$12.80 - $16.63/hr

Overview Organize, teach, and oversee all tennis related activities to include, group Classes ... Prepare the outdoor courts to include, winterizing/ un-winterizing (26 valves) for hydro court ...

$12.80 - $16.63/hr

Overview Organize, teach, and oversee all tennis related activities to include, group Classes ... Prepare the outdoor courts to include, winterizing/ un-winterizing (26 valves) for hydro court ...

$12.80 - $16.63/hr

Overview Organize, teach, and oversee all tennis related activities to include, group Classes ... Prepare the outdoor courts to include, winterizing/ un-winterizing (26 valves) for hydro court ...

Showing results 41-60

Outdoor Activity Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do outdoor activity instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor activity instructor in Virginia is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an outdoor activity instructor?

Outdoor activity instructors are professionals who lead and supervise individuals or groups in a range of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, climbing, kayaking, or camping. They are responsible for teaching skills, ensuring safety, organizing activities, and fostering a positive experience in nature. Instructors often work with schools, youth groups, or adventure companies, and they may also provide first aid and risk assessments. Their role combines teaching, leadership, and a passion for the outdoors.

How do outdoor activity instructors balance safety and adventure in their daily responsibilities?

Outdoor Activity Instructors are responsible for creating engaging, adventurous experiences while maintaining the highest safety standards. This involves conducting thorough risk assessments, providing clear safety briefings, and adapting activities based on participants' abilities and environmental conditions. Instructors must constantly monitor both the group and surroundings, intervening when necessary to prevent accidents. Balancing fun and safety requires strong communication skills, situational awareness, and continuous professional training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor activity instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Activity Instructor, you need expertise in outdoor sports, safety protocols, and first aid, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or activity-specific qualifications (e.g., climbing or kayaking instructor certificates). Familiarity with safety equipment, navigation tools (like GPS and compasses), and risk assessment systems is essential. Strong soft skills include leadership, effective communication, and adaptability to changing outdoor conditions. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring participant safety, delivering engaging experiences, and managing dynamic outdoor environments.

What is the difference between Outdoor Activity Instructor vs Adventure Guide?

AspectOutdoor Activity InstructorAdventure Guide
CertificationsFirst aid, CPR, activity-specific certificationsFirst aid, CPR, outdoor skills certifications
Work EnvironmentSchools, camps, recreation centersOutdoor expeditions, tours, adventure parks
Employer & IndustryRecreation, education, youth programsTourism, outdoor adventure companies

Both roles involve guiding participants in outdoor activities, requiring similar certifications like first aid and CPR. However, Outdoor Activity Instructors typically work in educational or recreational settings, focusing on teaching skills or safety, while Adventure Guides lead clients on outdoor expeditions or tours, emphasizing adventure and exploration. The choice depends on whether you prefer a structured teaching environment or leading outdoor adventures for tourists.

Infographic showing various Outdoor Activity Instructor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,969 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Tennis Instructor (Student Wage)

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Virginia Intramural-Recreational Sports Department is looking for Tennis Instructors to work for our Tennis Instructional Program this spring. Lessons are held at Snyder Tennis Center on UVA's Grounds. Instructors will be leading up to six participants during lessons. Must have excellent communication skills, ability to modify movements for participant safety, and exemplary customer service skills. Applicants should have experience playing tennis, while previous instructional experience is preferred.
Duties:
  • Lead and instruct a variety of tennis lessons in a safe and effective manner for our University faculty, staff, students, and members. Lessons may involve youth or adult participants.
  • Instructors are responsible for fully engaging participants in vibrant activities that promote a lifetime interest in tennis; correctly instructing and teaching lessons designed for participant enjoyment and safety; effectively communicating; and providing exemplary customer service.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies.
  • Assist in the execution of Emergency Action Procedures.
  • Lessons will mostly occur outdoors at the Snyder Tennis Center.

Required Qualifications:
  • Some experience leading group tennis lessons and/or competitive tennis playing experience at the high school or collegiate level.
  • Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings and in-service sessions.
  • Must have excellent communication skills, ability to modify movements for participant safety, and exemplary customer service skills.

The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
Position Compensation Range: $15.00 - $20.00 Hourly
Applications for this position will be accepted on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates may be contacted as opportunities become available, and positions will be filled as the need arises.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA student
Experience: Some experience leading group tennis lessons and/or competitive tennis playing experience at the high school or collegiate level.
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819