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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

2027 Whitewater Raft Guide

Charlemont, MA ยท On-site

$11.50 - $13.25/hr

This is an outdoor customer service position with an athletic element. Entry-level guides require no prior experience and will work on beginning-intermediate level trips. Advanced river guides should ...

2027 Whitewater Raft Guide

MA ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

This is an outdoor customer service position with an athletic element. Entry-level guides require no prior experience and will work on beginning-intermediate level trips. Advanced river guides should ...

Outdoor Education Manager The Outdoor Education Manger has overall responsibility for the design ... Past events have included guided useful plant walks, birds of prey, scavenger hunts, wildlife ...

Product Guide - Seasonal

Lynnfield, MA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Product Guide - Seasonal

Lynnfield, MA ยท 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 ...

Product Guide - Seasonal

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$19.20 - $21.40/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 ...

Product Guide - Seasonal

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$19.20 - $21.40/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 ...

Product Guide - Seasonal

Boston, MA ยท 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Outdoor Guide information

See Massachusetts salary details

$8

$21

$43

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Massachusetts is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $21.78 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 Massachusetts?

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

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

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

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Guide job openings in Massachusetts as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,762 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

2027 Whitewater Raft Guide

Charlemont, MA โ€ข On-site

Zoar Outdoor
Sports and Recreation Instructionย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$11.50 - $13.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

For the 2027 Season

Whitewater Raft Guide Job Description

Seeking guides! This is an outdoor customer service position with an athletic element. Entry-level guides require no prior experience and will work on beginning-intermediate level trips. Advanced river guides should have prior class IV experience. Guides are responsible for their assigned guests and expected to maintain the highest standards for customer service, promote and maintain Zoar Outdoors' position as a leader in the outdoor industry, and promote a culture of safety.

Other duties and expectations:

  • Guides must be at least 18 years of age prior to the first day of work
  • Eligible for work in the United States without our sponsorship
  • CPR/FA certification (we will be hosting a course during training)
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures listed in the employee manual, program manual, and preseason paperwork
  • Invite feedback as a vehicle to self-awareness and growth
  • Be a positive contributor to our company's culture and team atmosphere
  • Ability to keep a smile while working effectively in all weather conditions
  • A flexible "can do" attitude
  • Exercise sound judgment and professional behavior
  • Be playful, professional, and charismatic with a diverse group of guests
  • Punctuality and ready to work when you arrive
  • Deliver outstanding customer service
  • Seeing your work through to completion
  • Embrace our Core Values

Physical requirements include:

  • Carrying equipment over your head, while walking on uneven and rocky river banks.
  • Periods of prolonged sitting in a raft on a hypalon raft and being able to bend and rotate torso while in seated position.
  • Bending at the knees and waist to lift variable weight into your raft.
  • Comfortable swimming in moving current and river rapids(we will train you self raft rescue)

Benefits

This isn't just a job, it's part of a lifestyle that values culture, community, connection, and relationships. We celebrate this community with monthly staff get togethers, staff trips, and outings. Advocating for our programming is part of the job, and as a staff member, you'll have the opportunity to raft, zip, and kayak for no cost. In addition, we offer flexible scheduling, competitive pay, training stipends, discounts, pro-deals, photos for friends and family, and great co-workers.