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Outdoor Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonsal

Cabazon, CA · On-site

$20.80 - $23.10/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonsal

Cabazon, CA · On-site

$20.80 - $23.10/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonal

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23.60 - $26.20/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

ARC'TERYX

Product Guide - Seasonsal

Cabazon, CA · On-site

$20.80 - $23.10/hr

As a Product Guide at Arc'teryx, here's what you'd be doing: * Delivering a best-in-class brand ... Growth, community & gear - Professional development opportunities, Arc'teryx Academies (outdoor ...

Outdoor Dimensions

Sales Executive

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Outdoor Dimensions, a full-service sign company, is looking for a hunter-minded Sales Executive who ... This role requires taking ownership of each project and actively guiding both the customer and ...

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All JobsOutdoor Guide JobsOutdoor Guide Jobs in California

Outdoor Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an outdoor guide?

Outdoor guides are professionals who lead individuals or groups on outdoor adventures such as hiking, rafting, climbing, fishing, or camping. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants, sharing knowledge about the environment, and providing instruction on techniques and equipment. Outdoor guides often have specialized training in first aid, navigation, and natural history. Their goal is to create enjoyable, educational, and safe experiences in various outdoor settings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an outdoor guide?

To thrive as an Outdoor Guide, you need expertise in outdoor skills, navigation, first aid, and a solid understanding of environmental safety, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Responder or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and specialized gear for activities such as hiking, kayaking, or climbing is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help guides manage groups and respond calmly to unexpected situations. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and education of participants while minimizing risks in dynamic outdoor environments.

What challenges do outdoor guides face during group excursions, and how can they be managed?

Outdoor Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather, varying group fitness levels, and maintaining group safety in remote environments. Effective Outdoor Guides stay prepared with contingency plans, adapt itineraries on the fly, and communicate clearly with participants to ensure everyone understands expectations and safety procedures. Building rapport and fostering teamwork within diverse groups is also key for a positive and safe experience.

What is the difference between Outdoor Guide vs Hiking Instructor?

AspectOutdoor GuideHiking Instructor
CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, various terrains, group supervisionDesignated hiking trails, group instruction, outdoor
Employer & IndustryTour companies, adventure tourism, outdoor recreationOutdoor education centers, adventure programs, outdoor recreation
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking outdoor adventure jobs or toursIndividuals interested in outdoor education or guiding hikes

While both roles involve outdoor activities and safety certifications, an Outdoor Guide typically leads various outdoor adventures across different terrains, focusing on guiding groups through activities like rafting, climbing, or camping. A Hiking Instructor specializes in teaching hiking skills, leading groups on trails, and providing outdoor education specifically related to hiking. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in scope and activity focus.

What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Guide jobs in California?

For Outdoor Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Guide jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Guide jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs?

Cities in California with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:

Outdoor Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,450 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Peak- Outdoor Trip Leader I_II_III

Associated Students, Inc.

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $18.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage operational and participant needs for outdoor trips, camps, and clinics, including planning and implementation of activities.

  • Oversee group safety, risk management, and ensure all trip operational requirements are met.

  • Lead outdoor activities, manage equipment, and facilitate participant instruction and group dynamics.

Job description

Description
SUMMARY: This is a year-round position ranging in a variety of duties. The Outdoor Trip Leader is responsible for managing operational and participant needs for Peak Adventures Youth Explorer/Expedition Camp, Outdoor Trips, and Clinics from both on campus and off-site locations. The Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips, Clinics) I/II/III oversees the planning and implementation of trips, is responsible for participants of all ages, provides exemplary customer service, ensure risk management decisions, and meet all trip operational requirements are met.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) I:
  • Safely perform job duties
  • Knowledgeable in and ability to follow Outdoor Trip standard policies and procedures and Emergency Action Plans
  • Provide basic support during Explorer Camp, Outdoor Trips, and/or Clinics while upholding Peak Adventures policies and procedures and following the identified standard operating procedures
  • Ensure completed documentation for participants and other compliance reporting
  • Oversee group dynamics such as participants interactions within the group as well as interactions between participants and others outside the group to promote a positive experience for all
  • Properly load and unload outdoor gear and supplies to/from van roof rack, gear trailer, etc.
  • Communicate with Outdoor Adventure Manager effectively and on a frequent basis
  • Organization and management of outdoor trip equipment including but limited to maintenance, organization, inventory and usage tracking
  • Assist front desk staff with prepping and distributing rental equipment

Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) II:
  • Operation of a 10-passenger van and gear trailer. Perform a safety inspection on assigned vehicles to be used. Notify supervisor of any vehicle deficiencies. Follow all California State Rules and Regulations surrounding vehicle operation
  • Manage group travel in front and backcountry settings
  • Lead Pre-Trip Meetings
  • Assess and make decisions about risk management in the field
  • Understand and adhere to requirements and restrictions for trip location
  • Manage first aid needs
  • Leading skill instruction and demonstrating proficiency in outdoor activities that include but are not limited to LNT etiquette, hiking, camping, paddling, climbing, rafting, snowshoeing, caving, bouldering and backpacking
  • Leading Summer Explorer and Expedition Youth camp trips
  • Correctly manage and facilitate participants on trips or clinics, including tracking rosters and ensuring a safe return to campus

Outdoor Trip Leader (Camps, Trips and Clinics) III:
  • Able to lead expert skilled instruction in outdoor activities that include but are not limited to LNT etiquette, hiking, camping, paddling, climbing, rafting, snowshoeing, caving, bouldering and backpacking
  • Provide comprehensive training support to participants, helping them acquire outdoor skills and knowledge
  • Mentor and support lower-level OTL's in their growth and development within the program
  • Ability to demonstrate expert and sound judgement in highly variable outdoor settings and condition assessment, including anticipation of weather and it's effect on environment

CORE COMPETENCIES
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with other staff, and public
  • Demonstrating strong interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Ability to be flexible and adaptive
  • Ability to work well with other staff
  • Understanding and adherence to safe operating practices
  • Ability to manage large groups
  • Ability to confidently and accurately manage risk
  • Ability to serve as a role model for children
  • Ability to speak publicly in front of youth
  • Ability to work well with other staff and camp partners
  • Strong worth ethic and ability to work long hours
  • Timeliness and ability to maintain commitment to camp and trip schedule

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma and 18 years of age
  • CPR Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Wilderness First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Swift Water Rescue Certification (or ability to obtain before start date)
  • Demonstrated competency in various outdoor skills
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as well as overtime and double time
  • California Driver's license
  • Ability to meet ASI driving requirements
  • Availability to work summer hours Monday-Friday 7 AM-6 PM
  • Availability to work 2-6 Outdoor Trips per semester/season of school year
  • Complete Peak Adventures New Hire Orientation (up to 3 weekends of certifications, and a 5-day week of pre-youth camp training)
    • *Online certifications will not be accepted
    • **CPR/First Aid, Wilderness First Aid, Swift Water Rescue certifications and raft guide school will be provided

PERFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Enrolled in a minimum of 6 units at Sacramento State; maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA overall (for Student Assistant incumbents)
  • California Commercial driver's license (Class C or higher) with a passenger endorsement
  • Other outdoor professional certifications, ie. WFR (Wilderness First Responder)
  • Experience on a variety of outdoor trips with a diverse outdoor skill set
  • 1 or more years of trip leading experience
  • Experience working with youth

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to fingers, handle, feel, reach with hands and arms, talk and hear. The employee must:
  • Frequently lift and/or move up to 60 pounds or 100 pounds assisted.
  • Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and be prepared for both heat and cold
  • Must be able to climb, kneel, squat, reach overhead
  • Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces
  • Must be able to meet minimum physical requirements for individual activity
  • Must be able to drive for up to 3 hours in one day
  • Must be able to maintain a high level of focus for long periods

WORK ENVIRONMENT (Choose one only)
  • Outdoors exposed to rain, heat and cold temperature for 24 hours a day

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