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Summer Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Alterra

Activities Guide - Summer

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$20 - $21.47/hr

Activities include Climbing Wall, Ropes Course, Zip Lines, Summer Tubing, Woolly's Mountain Coaster, bungee, Archery, and more! Requirements: * Experience using climbing equipment and rope rescue ...

Everyday California

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Individuals who will be available to work through the Summer are desired! * Perfect for current ... guides! * Very flexible scheduling * 6-8 hour shifts available * must enjoy working in a team ...

Everyday California

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Individuals who will be available to work through the Summer are desired! * Perfect for current ... guides! * Very flexible scheduling * 6-8 hour shifts available * must enjoy working in a team ...

Everyday California

Kayak & Snorkel Guide

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

Individuals who will be available to work through the Summer are desired! * Perfect for current ... guides! * Very flexible scheduling * 6-8 hour shifts available * must enjoy working in a team ...

Alliance Redwoods

Summer Staff

Occidental, CA · On-site

$1.2K/wk

We are currently hiring summer staff for our Summer Staff Program , which is focused on equipping ... Guiding adventure-sport activities (kayaking, archery, archery tag, hatchet and knife throwing)

Alliance Redwoods

Summer Staff

Occidental, CA · On-site

$1.2K/wk

We are currently hiring summer staff for our Summer Staff Program , which is focused on equipping ... Guiding adventure-sport activities (kayaking, archery, archery tag, hatchet and knife throwing)

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Summer Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do summer guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer guide in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Summer Guides face when working with groups, and how can they be overcome?

Summer Guides often encounter challenges such as managing diverse group dynamics, keeping participants engaged, and ensuring safety during activities. To address these, successful guides use clear communication, set expectations early, and adapt activities to suit different age groups and interests. Building rapport and staying attentive to individual needs helps foster a positive, inclusive environment. Regular training and teamwork with co-guides also play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth experience for everyone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Summer Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Guide, you need strong knowledge of local geography, safety protocols, and outdoor activity facilitation, often supported by certifications such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with reservation systems, GPS devices, and communication radios is commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to engage and motivate groups are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure guest safety, enhance the experience, and foster trust in dynamic outdoor environments.

What are summer guides?

Summer guides are individuals who lead and assist groups or individuals in outdoor activities, tours, or educational programs during the summer season. They often work at camps, national parks, adventure tour companies, or educational institutions, providing guidance, safety, and information to participants. Their responsibilities can include leading hikes, organizing activities, ensuring safety protocols, and sharing knowledge about the local environment or subject matter. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors, have strong leadership skills, and are passionate about sharing experiences with others.

What is the difference between Summer Guide vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer GuideSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer experience in guiding or outdoor activitiesHigh school diploma; certifications in first aid or CPR often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor locations, parks, or tourist sites guiding groupsCampgrounds, recreational facilities working with children and teens
Employer & Industry UsageTourism, outdoor recreation, adventure companiesSummer camps, youth programs, recreational organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding guiding roles in outdoor settingsWorking with children in summer camp settings

The main difference between a Summer Guide and a Summer Camp Counselor lies in their work environment and focus. Summer Guides typically lead outdoor tours or activities at parks or tourist sites, while Summer Camp Counselors work directly with children at summer camps. Both roles may require similar certifications like CPR, but their daily tasks and settings differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Guide jobs in California? The most popular types of Guide jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Summer Guide jobs? Cities in California with the most Summer Guide job openings:
Summer Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Guide job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,450 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Activities Guide - Summer

Activities Guide - Summer

Alterra

Mammoth Lakes, CA

$20 - $21.47/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Seasonal

At Mammoth Mountain, you will live the dream!

Work and play in the majestic mountains with a free season pass that opens the doors to adventure at all Alterra Resorts. Your whole family can share this excitement with free skiing for dependents and a range of valuable discounts. It is more than a job; it is an opportunity to embrace the beauty of Mammoth Lakes, California.

Benefits and perks of your adventure here:

  • Ski passes for dependents (spouse/child(ren)/domestic partners) includes free skiing at other Alterra Resorts
  • Free skiing at all Alterra Resorts
  • Ski/snowboarding lessons discounts
  • Equipment Rental discount
  • Friends and Family vouchers
  • Retail & Food discount
  • 401k with company match

*Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check

A little about this position:

  • One of the most fun, versatile, and rewarding jobs at Mammoth's newest and fastest-growing attraction.
  • Woolly's Adventure Summit prides itself in being a safe, FUN, and family oriented experience that almost any guest can partake in and is brought to life by a team of engaged employees.
  • Must be willing to be a team player, engage and be friendly to guests, open to learning new skills, and willing to understand and operate all aspects of park operations.
  • Activities include Climbing Wall, Ropes Course, Zip Lines, Summer Tubing, Woolly's Mountain Coaster, bungee, Archery, and more!

Requirements:

  • Experience using climbing equipment and rope rescue equipment preferred.
  • Guest Service experience desired.
  • Ability to work at heights with the use of fall protection.
  • Strong attention to detail while working in a multitasking environment.
  • Ability to communicate specific details to provide a safe and fun Guest Experience.
  • Ability to climb, lift and lower participants/objects, stand for long periods, watch and communicate with participants.
  • Comfortable working in close physical proximity to Guests while fitting harnesses and while performing rescue operations.
  • Ability to work in a sometimes fast paced and stressful environment.
  • Ability to perform Mountain Coaster or Ropes Course Rescue operations including stabilizing, moving and lowering of participant.
  • Ability to work outside in all weather conditions and assist in a variety of different duties as assigned.

Hourly pay rate: $20.00 to $21.47

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.

Mammoth Mountain is an equal opportunity employer.

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