1

Outdoor Recreation Guide Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician - Horticultural Science

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership , and ... Additional responsibilities include supporting safety and compliance activities, guiding temporary ...

Showing results 41-44

Outdoor Recreation Guide information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$31

$65

How much do outdoor recreation guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor recreation guide in Raleigh, NC is $31.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $60.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an outdoor recreation guide do?

An Outdoor Recreation Guide leads individuals or groups on outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, or camping. They are responsible for planning and organizing trips, ensuring participant safety, providing instruction on equipment and techniques, and sharing knowledge about the local environment and wildlife. Guides often tailor experiences to suit the skill levels and interests of participants, and they may also handle emergency situations if they arise. Their goal is to create a memorable and safe outdoor experience for everyone involved.

What are some common challenges outdoor recreation guides face in the field, and how can they prepare for them?

Outdoor Recreation Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying group skill levels, and ensuring safety in remote environments. Preparing for these situations involves thorough pre-trip planning, staying updated with weather forecasts, and maintaining strong communication and leadership skills. Guides should also be well-versed in first aid and emergency protocols to address unforeseen incidents, and adaptable in adjusting activities to suit the group's abilities and comfort levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor recreation guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Guide, you need strong outdoor skills, first aid certification, and in-depth knowledge of local environments and safety protocols. Familiarity with GPS devices, emergency communication systems, and specialized equipment like climbing or paddling gear is typically required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides manage groups and respond effectively to challenges. These abilities are crucial to ensure participant safety, deliver memorable experiences, and adapt to dynamic outdoor conditions.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation Guide vs Outdoor Activity Instructor?

AspectOutdoor Recreation GuideOutdoor Activity Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, outdoor activity certificationsCPR, First Aid, activity-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, parks, wilderness areasOutdoor or indoor activity centers, parks
Employer & IndustryTour companies, outdoor recreation businessesRecreation centers, adventure parks

Both roles involve guiding outdoor activities, requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Outdoor Recreation Guides typically work in broader outdoor environments and may oversee multiple activities, while Outdoor Activity Instructors often focus on specific activities within structured settings. Both roles are essential in the outdoor recreation industry and share overlapping skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Guide job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,977 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Research Technician - Horticultural Science

NCSU

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

466th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Posting Information
Posting Number PG195168SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Research Technician - Horticultural Science Anticipated Hiring Range $53,140 - $55,000 Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Horticultural Science About the Department
Since 1901, the faculty, staff and students of the Department of Horticultural Science have been providing innovative teaching, research and outreach to the citizens of North Carolina, the nation, and the world. Our research and extension programs are recognized worldwide for their contributions to applied horticultural production and to discovery science. We generate and extend knowledge about fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, and landscape design for the purpose of increasing food security and food safety, sustaining the environment, enhancing economic vitality, and improving the quality of life for individuals and their communities.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Department of Horticultural Science is seeking a motivated and experienced professional to support the day-to-day operations of the Horticulture Field Lab (HFL), a large-scale outdoor and greenhouse research complex serving faculty, students, researchers, and industry partners across multiple departments. The HFL supports a wide range of field and greenhouse research, teaching, extension, and industry testing activities and is home to the JC Raulston Arboretum.

The position provides operational and research support for the HFL and assists with operations at the Fox and HFL Greenhouses. The position works closely with the HFL/Fox Greenhouse Coordinator and HFL Research Operations Coordinator to maintain safe, efficient, and functional research and teaching environments. Responsibilities include coordinating facility maintenance and repairs, managing work requests and equipment resources, supporting irrigation and water systems, maintaining operational and inventory records, assisting with field and greenhouse activities, and coordinating resources to meet the needs of approximately 22-25 active research projects and Principal Investigators.

The position serves as a key operational resource for faculty, staff, students, and other facility users and assists with the planning and allocation of facility space, equipment, and other resources. Additional responsibilities include supporting safety and compliance activities, guiding temporary personnel in facility operations, assisting with teaching and extension events, and monitoring facility operations during weekends or other periods when designated coordinators are unavailable. The successful candidate will be expected to independently prioritize competing requests, troubleshoot operational challenges, coordinate resources, and effectively communicate with a varied group of facility users and stakeholders.
Other Responsibilities
  • Supervise HFL interns and bi-weekly employees.
  • Operate skid-steer loader, Dingo, Ditch-witch, tractor, row mulcher.
  • Teach students how to use machinery and conduct various landscape contracting activities.
  • Install research project plots, apply herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers, and other necessary maintenance chemicals.
  • Repair buildings, greenhouses, polyhouses, irrigation lines, and nursery pads.
  • Repair electrical problems, apply poly to houses.
  • Manufacture and deliver mulch as part of campus closed loop initiative (2500 yards).
  • Assist JCRA with various education projects and construction activities.
  • Host field days.
Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Plumbing, small equipment use, and mechanical aptitude are not required, but helpful skills for this position.
Required License or Certification
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Valid NCDL within 60 days of hire.
  • Pesticide license
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 08/12/2026 Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.) 08/19/2026 Notice to Applicants
Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase "see resume".
Special Instructions
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00050246 Position Type SHRA Position Classification Band Title Research Technician Position Classification Band Level Advanced Position Classification Salary Range $ 34,320 - $ 72,734 Salary Grade Equivalency MH08 Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Time Limited Position No Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable) Department Id 111501 - Horticultural Science EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

What North Carolina State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


North Carolina State University logo

About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887