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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Store Team Member

Roanoke, 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

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

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 ...

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Store Team Lead

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/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 Lead

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/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 ...

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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 21, 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 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 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 83% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,635 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Treetop Quest Aerial Adventure Guide

Roanoke County, VA

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$14/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Salary: $14.00 Hourly
Location : Roanoke, VA
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: 201003710
Department: Parks, Rec & Tour - Recreation
Opening Date: 07/24/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Provides facilitation and instructional assistance for the operation of Treetop Quest aerial adventure course. Maintains a safe and controlled atmosphere to ensure a high quality program that meets county standards. Performs other duties as assigned.
*Shift Hours and/or Days worked: Various
*Hours Required for this position: Up to 20/week
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Performs daily course set up/break down, visual course inspections, participant safety orientations, and on-going participant and environmental observations. Starts and ends programs on time and returns all resources to their proper locations.
  • Evacuates/rescues guests in distress from the aerial adventure course following standardized safety protocols as needed.
  • Performs basic clean-up for all areas of Treetop Quest aerial adventure course facility including birthday party and observation spaces.
  • Interacts spontaneously with participants, guests and the general public at any given time at the park to model a personal and inviting atmosphere.
  • Establishes and maintains effective working relationship with employees, partnering organizations, participants, guests, and the general public. Fostering a team environment through daily work habits and a positive attitude.

REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES
Education
Preferred: High School Diploma or equivalent
Experience
Preferred: One year of proven work history in the recreation, outdoor or service industry.
Certifications/Licenses
Required: CPR and First Aid certification or the ability to obtain upon hire
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to be comfortable working off the ground and in the trees.
  • Ability to work and manage stressful situations that could directly impact participant safety.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of group instruction.
  • Ability to lead and teach a variety of group types of all ages.
  • Willingness to work both indoors and outdoors in a variety of environmental conditions.

Additional Requirements
Subject to a complete criminal history and Child Protective Services background search with acceptable results. Good physical condition. Following a conditional offer of employment, must pass a post offer physical examination. Must be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description.
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and some holidays. Minimum age 16.
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
OTHER INFORMATION
Benefits are available to full-time positions only.

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