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Outdoor Trip Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trip Leader

Oakdale, NY ยท On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/mo

Great Work Environment We are seeking an outgoing and experienced Trip Leader to join our team! As ... You will also plan fun activities and games, provide outdoor education, and set up camping ...

Outdoor Educator

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$18/hr

Be familiar with and follow all Venture Outdoors trip leader guidelines. QUALIFICATIONS * Experience working with youth, preferably in an informal education setting; * Desire to lead, motivate, and ...

... trip leading, and the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center. This position may include driving University vehicles and trailers. Strong candidates will possess a minimum of one semester of outdoor ...

... trip leading, and the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center. This position may include driving University vehicles and trailers. Prior outdoor leadership experience welcomed but not required. Applicants ...

... trip leading, and the Outdoor Adventures Rental Center. This position may include driving University vehicles and trailers. Strong candidates will possess a minimum of one year of outdoor leadership ...

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Outdoor Trip Leader information

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How much do outdoor trip leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor trip leader in the United States is $17.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges outdoor trip leaders face, and how can they be managed on multi-day excursions?

Outdoor Trip Leaders often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, group dynamics, and maintaining safety in remote environments. Managing these issues involves thorough pre-trip planning, clear communication with participants, and flexibility to adapt the itinerary as needed. Leaders must also be skilled in risk assessment, conflict resolution, and ensuring all group members feel included and supported. Regular check-ins with the group and having contingency plans in place help maintain a positive and safe experience for everyone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor trip leader?

To thrive as an Outdoor Trip Leader, you need strong outdoor skills, safety knowledge, and experience in group management, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Familiarity with navigation tools like GPS devices, topographic maps, and communication equipment is typically required. Exceptional leadership, decision-making, and interpersonal skills help foster group cohesion and ensure participant well-being. These skills and qualities are vital for managing risks, providing a positive group experience, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants in outdoor settings.

What is the difference between Outdoor Trip Leader vs Outdoor Guide?

AspectOutdoor Trip LeaderOutdoor Guide
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, outdoor leadership certificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, specialized guiding certifications
Work EnvironmentLeading groups on multi-day trips, planning itinerariesProviding guided experiences, leading specific activities
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, camps, tour operatorsOutdoor adventure companies, guiding services, resorts
Search & ComparisonOften searched together; Trip Leaders oversee guidesCommonly compared as a guiding role with leadership duties

Both roles involve outdoor safety, customer service, and environmental knowledge. An Outdoor Trip Leader typically manages entire trips, including planning and group management, while an Outdoor Guide focuses on leading specific activities or excursions. Certifications overlap, but Trip Leaders often require broader leadership training. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is an outdoor trip leader?

Outdoor Trip Leaders are professionals who guide groups on outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, backpacking, or canoeing. They are responsible for planning trips, ensuring participants' safety, teaching outdoor skills, and fostering group cohesion. These leaders often work for camps, schools, adventure companies, or non-profit organizations, and must have strong leadership, communication, and wilderness skills. They also manage risks, handle emergencies, and help participants connect with nature.
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What job categories do people searching Outdoor Trip Leader jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Trip Leader jobs are:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Trip Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,527 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Trip Leader (Poly Escapes)

Associated Students, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA โ€ข On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Definition and Purpose

Under the supervision of the Coordinator I – Outdoor Recreation, the Trip Leader is responsible for planning, organizing, and safely leading outdoor trips for the Cal Poly campus community. This position requires a commitment to the ongoing training and development of oneself and others in the program. This position is expected to help maintain trip equipment inventory and work closely with the Coordinator I – Outdoor Recreation on all trip equipment needs, repairs, and replacements. The Trip Leader is expected to assist all other Poly Escapes employees in their mission of providing student development opportunities through outdoor recreation programming and education.

ASI is committed to supporting the aspirations of the University Learning Objectives. Our employees are expected to make reasoned decisions based on ethics, respect for diversity, and an awareness of issues of sustainability. Additionally, they will work productively as individuals and in groups while communicating effectively.

This position is based at the Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Requirements

Educational Requirements and Qualifying Experience
  • Must be a currently enrolled student at Cal Poly with a minimum of 6 units. Graduate students must carry 4 units.
  • Wilderness First Aid and/or Wilderness First Responder certification required.
  • Current American Red Cross certification in the following: Adult CPR, AED, and First Aid is required within 30 days of hire, training provided by ASI. 
  • Experience in organized outdoor recreation programs with demonstrated competencies in leadership, student or participant development, inventory tracking, and risk management preferred.
  • Experience teaching, leading or managing a group.
  • Strong organizational abilities.
  • Experience planning, facilitating, and/or evaluating outdoor trips.
  • Working knowledge of outdoor trip gear.
  • Basic knowledge of budgeting and spending tracking preferred.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Supervise and manage all trip participants and ensure a safe environment for all.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Complete all pre-trip and post-trip paperwork in a timely manner.
  • Respond appropriately to all accidents and incidents.
  • Provide a positive and inclusive environment for all customers and participants.
  • Mentor fellow members of the program as they are on-boarded and trained.
  • Attend all staff meetings and training.
  • Facilitate and practice proper gear use.
  • Respond effectively to participants and co-leader verbal and non-verbal cues and feedback.
  • Practice and teach the principles of “Leave No Trace."
  • Provide quality customer service to all staff and customers.
  • Track and return all rental and trip equipment prior to and after each trip.
  • Make certain all checkout procedures for equipment are executed according to policy.
  • Abide by and enforce all ASI and campus security regulations regarding confidential and private information.
  • Stay informed of all ASI and staff area policies; enforce policies as necessary.
  • Maintain the integrity of the ASI philosophy and brand.
  • Attend all meetings, workshops, and retreats.
  • Participate in and contribute to both self-evaluation and the evaluation of others.
  • Understand the practical and safe use of all outdoor equipment available at the Poly Escapes Rental Center.
  • Ensure all aspects of Poly Escapes are kept clean and orderly.
  • Maintain inventory of Poly Escapes Equipment.
  • Maintain awareness of safety and risk management procedures.
  • Work closely with the Coordinator I - Outdoor Recreation to implement new ideas and maintain the success and integrity of Poly Escapes.
  • Plan and prepare trips for the Cal Poly student body.
Other Duties and Responsibilities
  • The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in ASI policy as a condition of their employment.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Background Check

Satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check) is required for employment. ASI will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current ASI employee who was conditionally offered the position.

Benefits

Compensation and Hours
  • Hourly Pay Rate: $16.90 per hour
  • Hourly Pay Range: $16.90 per hour - $16.90 per hour
  • Maximum 20 hours per week while attending academic classes. (Maximum hours are subject to change while leading or participating in trips.)

Position may require working late nights, weekends, or holidays

Requires a minimum of two consecutive terms of work availability

Location: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA.

The Associated Students, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.