1

Outdoor Trip Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Support student trip leaders with trip planning and logistics; co-lead out-of-state trips with ... certifications in outdoor recreation or emergency preparedness. * 6 months or less of work ...

KP Paddle Excursionist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$15/hr

  • Retirement

Be familiar with and follow all Venture Outdoors trip leader guidelines * Clean and store equipment properly * Attend biweekly staff meetings facilitated by Kayak Pittsburgh management QUALIFICATIONS ...

SOLO Instructor

Bryson City, NC · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Position Qualifications Outdoor and Medical Background * Experience leading trips in back-country settings * Worked for more than one season as a head guide/trip leader * Medical provider: EMS, ski ...

Showing results 21-40

Outdoor Trip Leader information

See salary details

$9

$17

$26

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.
More about Outdoor Trip Leader jobs

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.

Outdoor Adventure (Equipment Coordinator, Climbing Center Coordinator, Poplar Ridge Challenge Cou...

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$13.25 - $14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Outdoor Adventure Equipment Coordinator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • To assist customers in outfitting trips by ensuring proper rentals of needed camping and paddling equipment.
  • To responsibly handle the monetary transactions of the outdoor recreation rental center according to PCIregulations and through the completion of the appropriate forms for rentals and refunds.
  • Monitor use the bouldering wall and ensure all users have completed the required Bouldering Orientation before climbing.
  • Look for the unobvious things to do. Don't wait for someone to tell you what needs to be done. Look for things that you can do to be helpful to keep the ORC clean and well organized.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies
  • Assist in the execution of Emergency Action Procedures

Outdoor Adventure Climbing Center Coordinator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Oversee member use of Slaughter Recreation Climbing Facility
  • Attend Climbing Center Supervisor Trainings
  • Assist with other OA trip forms, packets, maps, logistics, vans, vehicles, etc. for the field program activities.
  • Look for things that you can do to be helpful to keep the Climbing Center clean and well organized.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies

Outdoor Adventure Trip Leader:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Trip Leaders will be responsible for planning, organizing and leading outdoor trips for the UVA community
  • Attend required trip leader training sessions including CPR/AED and Wilderness First Aid
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies.
  • Be a positive and respectful representative of the University and department.

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • No outdoor experience is required for Backpacking/Trail programs. For paddling and climbing, a baseline level of experience is preferred. (Leaders have the opportunity to learn other functional areas on the job).
  • We are looking for mature, enthusiastic and committed students who have an interest in working in the outdoors with groups of students. Experience with outdoor pursuits, outdoor leadership, group facilitation, and/or wilderness risk management are all beneficial. Ideal candidates should possess a servant leadership mentality and should be excited to work students to facilitate friendships and community building.
  • Applicants should be able to lift 40+ pounds.
  • Applicants should possess a strong work ethic and personal initiative.
  • Instructors will receive outdoor and site-specific training
  • Wilderness First Aid certification (a $200 value)

Poplar Ridge Challenge Course Facilitator:

Area Specific Responsibilities:

  • Our typical programs revolve around team building and leadership development concepts and many programs include one or more of our high ropes activities.
  • Facilitators for Poplar Ridge take on many roles: trainer, leader, mediator, coach, role model, instructor, and counselor.
  • A typical program would involve leading your own team of 8-16 participants through a series of experiential initiatives and facilitating group discussions around what was learned. Many of our programs incorporate one or more of our high elements using ropes, harnesses, and group belay systems.
  • Low and High course training is provided, though those with prior experience with other challenge courses and/or group facilitation will likely pick it up more quickly.
  • Adhere to and enforce University/Departmental Policies
  • Assist in the execution of Emergency Action Procedures

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • Ideal candidates would be mature undergraduate, graduate, or community members with experience teaching, facilitating, or leading groups.
  • Applicants should have a strong interest in team building, outdoor instruction, and/or organizational dynamics.
  • Successful candidates will have a demonstrated ability and comfort in front of groups, creative energy, and strong personal integrity.
  • Successful completion of required trainings.

Compensation: $13.25 -14 per hour (depending on experience)

Applications for this position will be accepted on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates may be contacted as opportunities become available, and positions will be filled as the need arises.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA student
Experience: None
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.


What University Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Virginia logo

About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819