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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Trail Guides work as a team in providing the highest possible levels of care for the horses and ... Correct immediately if possible or report situation to Director of Outdoor Programs. 5. Check in ...

Store Team Member

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$13 - $17/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 ...

Store Team Member

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.75/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 ...

$12.75 - $16.50/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 ...

Store Team Member

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $16.50/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 ...

Store Team Member

Madison, TN · On-site

$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 ...

Store Team Member

Franklin, TN

$13.50 - $17.75/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 ...

Store Team Member

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$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 ...

Store Team Member

Franklin, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/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 ...

Store Team Member

Cookeville, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/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 ...

Store Team Member

Columbia, TN

$12.50 - $16.25/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 ...

Store Team Member

Hixson, TN · On-site

$11.25 - $14.75/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 ...

Store Team Member

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$13 - $17/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 ...

Store Team Member

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13 - $17.25/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Outdoor Guide information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$17

$36

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Tennessee is $17.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.45 and $18.12 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Outdoor Guide jobs in Tennessee?

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

Infographic showing various Outdoor Guide job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,200 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Attractions Team Member A - Dollywood Theme Park - Seasonal

Dollywood

Pigeon Forge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Dollywood rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 58 rated theme parks


Job description

At Dollywood Parks & Resorts, we create memories worth repeating! We are seeking an Attractions Team Member A who will embody the heart and soul of our mission of creating memories worth repeating while bringing families closer together while caring deeply about our brand.
We want to work alongside someone who acts as an extension of our mission, values, and culture. The ideal Attractions Team Member A will be equal parts curious learner, innovator, administrator, detail driver, mentor, and motivator.
The Attractions Team Member A is responsible for all aspects of assigned attractions, to include safety, friendliness, cleanliness, and line speed within assigned areas.
Additionally, the ideal candidate will be able to display and live out Lead with Love qualities, strongly rooted in the Dollywood Company culture, by being patient, kind, trusting, unselfish, truthful, forgiving, dedicated and accountable.
Summary of Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Operate ride controls/control panels in all weather conditions
  • Communicate and enforce safety rules
  • Steady guests while entering/exiting ride vehicles during evacuations
  • Inspect harness and other safety equipment prior to use
  • React calmly and quickly in stressful/emergency situations
  • Physically assist guests throughout the ride/attraction as required
  • Observe guest actions during ride operations to prevent safety hazards
  • Ensure guests are not adjusting safety equipment and observe actions to prevent safety hazards while on ride/attraction
  • Complete required safety paperwork daily
  • Initiate friendly interactions with guests
  • Clean ride/attraction daily as needed
  • Work varying hours and at different areas when needed
  • Complete ride/attraction safety ride-around/walk throughs if/when required
  • Learn and enforce all centralized measuring guidelines
  • Follow all safety standards to include reporting any violation of standards

Management reserves the right to change and/or add to these duties at any time
Education and Experience Required
  • Minimum of 14 years of age is required when/as:
    • Grouper/Greeter positions at the following rides: Thunderhead, Tennessee Tornado, FireChaser Express, Dragonflier
  • Minimum of 16 years of age is required when/as:
    • Ride Operators at rides designated as Moderate Thrill Attractions (as defined by IAAPA standards)
    • Grouper/Greeter positions at the following rides: Thunderhead, Tennessee Tornado, FireChaser Express, Dragonflier
  • Minimum of 18 years of age is required when/as:
    • Ride Operators at rides designated as High Thrill Attractions (as defined by IAAPA standards)
    • Any activity with use of a motor vehicle to include trams and shuttles
    • Drive vehicles operated exclusively on rails
    • Work on or ascend lift hills whether in training, normal operations, or evacuations
  • Basic computer skills
  • Must successfully complete a pre-employment background check and drug screen
  • Ability to safely operate company vehicles according to company policy. Must have valid driver's license, proof of auto liability insurance and acceptable motor vehicle driving record

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Able to make a friendly impression when speaking to or corresponding with guests, vendors, and other employees
  • Must reflect Dollywood's image by being genuinely friendly and caring and by taking pride in work
  • Must be self-motivated and disciplined
  • Must be able to prioritize and complete work assignments on a timely basis
  • Must maintain strict confidentiality and judgment regarding privileged information
  • Must be committed to continuous improvement
  • Must have professional appearance with good personal hygiene
  • Must promote and support a "team" work environment by cooperating and helping co-workers
  • Must be productive in a fast-paced environment
  • Must maintain dependable work attendance and flexibility with assigned work schedules including any required overtime, evenings, weekends and holidays
  • Must be sensitive to the needs of our Guests and feel empowered to act to meet their needs within company guidelines
  • Must be able to utilize effective communication, problem solving, conflict management and interpersonal skills
  • Able to comprehend instructions and retain information
  • Able to perform duties consistent with creating a safe and secure environment for hosts and guests
  • Able to be flexible to handle frequent changes in priorities
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide with accuracy
  • Must be able to effectively communicate with fellow Guests and Hosts using approved communication methods
  • Able to wear full body safety harness and climb up to a 200ft. lift in order to perform inspections, conduct ride evaluations, and host training
  • Able to climb evacuation steps and maintain good balance
  • Able to ride all rides/attractions which require a physical ride through inspection
  • Able to wear all PPE as required
  • Able to tolerate all chemicals/detergents utilized in the area
  • Able to be subjected to periodic random drug screening as outlined by company policy
  • Able to remain attentive and alert at all times
  • Able to memorize written safety standards and/or scripts
  • Able to speak clearly to include the use of P/A systems and two-way radios
  • Able to work outdoors in a variety of different weather elements with exposure to bees, insects, and wildlife

Physical and Cognitive Requirements
  • Lifting and Carrying: Position may require occasional to frequent lifting of up to 50 lbs. utilizing company's safety guidelines for safe lifting
  • Mobility: Position may require intermittent to prolonged sitting, standing and/or walking for duration of shift, up to 13 hours. Employees may also be required to travel to various areas on property which may include changes in terrain, stairs and uneven surfaces
  • Repetitive Movements: This position may require performing repetitive movements and tasks throughout the shift, including repeated use of hands, arms or other body parts as part of typical job functions
  • Environmental Conditions: This position requires the ability to perform work tasks in varying weather conditions to include extreme cold and heat. Employees may be required to work indoors and outdoors
  • Cognitive and Sensory Requirements: This position requires strong cognitive skills, including the ability to think critically, solve problems, process and retain information, have attention to detail and communicate effectively using approved methods
  • Able to meet the physical demands of the job
  • Able to have manual dexterity necessary to complete all job duties
  • Able to sit and/or stand for long/short periods

The Dollywood Company is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. The Dollywood Company drives a welcoming culture where ideas and decisions from all people support our efforts to be relevant in an ever-changing world.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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