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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Adams Outdoor

Account Executive

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

Adams Outdoor Advertising (AOA), the leading advertising platform in Kalamazoo and the 4th largest ... Assignment of a senior Mentor to help guide initial experience and guide to long-term success

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ACCESS

Coordinator of Public Programming

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Conduct and oversee outdoor guided tours in and around the Arab American National Museum's neighborhood in East Dearborn as part of the AANM's Neighborhood Tours program. (Yalla! Eat, Spaces of ...

Great Outdoors

Landscape Crew Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Great Outdoors is looking for a motivated Landscape Crew Leader to join our growing team. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll guide your crew, ensure projects are completed with ...

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Great Outdoors

Landscape Crew Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Great Outdoors is looking for a motivated Landscape Crew Leader to join our growing team. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll guide your crew, ensure projects are completed with ...

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Academy Sports + Outdoors

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

Academy Sports + Outdoors

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

Great Outdoors

Horticulture Crew Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

In this role, you will use your plant knowledge and leadership skills to guide a crew, manage diverse properties, and deliver beautiful outdoor spaces. Compensation & Benefits * Hourly Wage : $22.00 ...

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All JobsOutdoor Guide JobsOutdoor Guide Jobs in Michigan

Outdoor Guide information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$17

$34

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Michigan is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are outdoor guides?

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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outdoor Guide, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges 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 are popular job titles related to Outdoor Guide jobs in Michigan? For Outdoor Guide jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Guide jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Guide jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:
Outdoor Guide jobs near you
Outdoor Education Program Instructor

Outdoor Education Program Instructor

YMCA of Greater Flint

Fenton, MI

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description

The Outdoor Education Program Instructor is responsible teaching/leading all activities and programs for groups attending Outdoor Education and Group Adventure Programs. The position will have a direct impact on the quality or programing for all guests of camp. YMCA Camp Copneconic will have a satisfied and growing participant base, quality programs and services, sound financial position and a positive community image. 


  • Lead activities for groups attending camp for all Outdoor Education and Group Adventure programs. The instructor will also perform cleaning upon departure of groups 
  • Lead and teach activities as written in the Instructors Guide. 
  • Attend meals and perform duties at the dish window as scheduled. 
  • Host groups as scheduled. 
  • Report equipment and supply needs to the Outdoor Education Program Director. 
  • Clean housing and program facilities & areas after group departures. 
  • Assist in teaching and training Level 1 Instructors in programs as needed. 
  • Report maintenance concerns to Outdoor Education Program Director. 



Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field 
  • Combined 2 years of experience in the outdoor education industry 
  • Additional certifications benefiting YMCA Camp Copneconic (LGI, Archery, Kayak, etc.) 
  • At least 3 seasons of Outdoor Education at YMCA Camp Copneconic with positive evaluations 
  • Speak clearly 
  • Speak fluent English 
  • Read & write English 
  • Bend/stoop/twist 
  • Push/pull 
  • Climb/balance on ladders 
  • Use cleaning chemicals 
  • Use pool chemicals 
  • Lift over 50lbs 
  • See clearly 
  • Work in an outdoor setting over 6 hours/day 
  • Work in air-conditioned area 
  • Work in non-air conditioned area 
  • Work outdoors with pollens 
  • Work in sunlight 
  • Work in high humidity 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, and outside weather conditions. 

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