ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Outdoor Guide Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Reston Association

Teacher Naturalist

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

The role requires a passion for nature, comfort working outdoors in all seasons, and enthusiasm for ... Our Core Values of Service, Collaboration, Stewardship, Innovation and Leadership guide everything ...

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Store Team Member

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$13 - $21/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

Store Team Member

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$13 - $21/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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsOutdoor Guide JobsOutdoor Guide Jobs in Virginia

Outdoor Guide information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Virginia is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.76 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:

Outdoor Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Guide job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,635 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Teacher Naturalist

Reston Association

Reston, VA • On-site

$17.50/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Location

12001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191

This is an on-site position at Reston headquarters and Walker Nature Center. Your seasonal position may require travel to multiple Reston Association sites based on the duties required.

Position Overview

Are you passionate about making a difference in the community? At Reston Association (RA), we’re committed to enhancing the quality of life for Reston residents through outstanding programs, exceptional services, and dedicated stewardship of the community’s natural and recreational resources. As the community's steward, RA is responsible for maintaining the quality of life in Reston, chiefly by caring for and administering the community's most precious asset - its real property.

At Reston Association (RA), our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are actively seeking a Teacher Naturalist to join our Nature Center team! The primary function of this seasonal position is to deliver engaging environmental education programs and support operations at Walker Nature Center. This role plays an important part in advancing RA’s mission by fostering environmental stewardship, community engagement, and outdoor learning through hands‑on educational experiences.

The Teacher Naturalist will lead environmental education programs for school groups and the public, support visitor services, and assist with special events and programming. This position works closely with the Environmental Education Supervisor to ensure high‑quality educational offerings while maintaining a welcoming and safe experience for visitors. The role requires a passion for nature, comfort working outdoors in all seasons, and enthusiasm for teaching children and community members.

What You’ll Bring

  • Natural history knowledge with some teaching experience preferred.
  • Experience working with children and a demonstrated love of the outdoors.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to organize, prioritize, and lead engaging educational programs.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications preferred.
  • Ability to use a personal computer, office equipment, science tools, and hand tools as needed.
  • Adult and child CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including standing and walking for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds independently and/or assist with items up to 50 pounds.

What You Can Expect From Reston Association

At RA, we are leading the model community where all can Live, Work, Play and Get Involved, and we strive to preserve and enhance the Reston community through outstanding leadership, service and stewardship of our resources. Our Core Values of Service, Collaboration, Stewardship, Innovation and Leadership guide everything we do, and we are proud to provide a workplace in which everyone is treated as an individual with dignity and respect, encourages creativity, and always endeavors to provide an atmosphere that exceeds member expectations and engages collaboration and communication.

If you are passionate about a workplace that is dedicated to the preservation of natural resources and advancing community while at the same time creating a collaborative workplace, we want to hear from you.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or state as an individual with a disability.

Compensation

In addition to a competitive hourly wage, we offer several benefits designed to enhance your experience at RA.

Our offerings include:

  • Free recreation passes for seasonal employees and their dependents
  • One Free Season Long Guest Pass
  • Discounted fees for all Recreation Programs and Camp Programs
  • Discounts in the RA Tennis and Pickleball Pro Shop
  • One free pavilion reservation per year
  • Half price reservations at Community Buildings
  • Four complimentary boat rental passes
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Staff events
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Free electric car charging on-site

We are dedicated to promoting a welcoming and rewarding workplace where all employees can thrive and feel valued. Your growth and success are important to us, and we strive to provide the resources and support necessary for you to achieve your personal and professional goals.

Reston Association is committed to maintaining a secure and transparent recruitment experience. As part of our standard hiring practices, all communication with applicants is conducted exclusively through official ADP email messages. Reston Association does not use text messaging, social media direct messages, or calls from unidentified numbers to schedule interviews or request personal information. If you receive a message that appears inconsistent with these guidelines, or if you would like to verify the legitimacy of any communication, please contact: Devon Mangual, HR Coordinator, dmangual@reston.org