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Summer Guide Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

During your Summer break, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with our experienced ... Clearly communicate pricing estimates and treatment plans, serving as a guide through the client ...

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Guide children through their early developmental years using Montessori principles, observation ... summer camp

Be Seen First

Guide children through their early developmental years using Montessori principles, observation ... summer camp

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Summer Guide information

See New York salary details

$8

$21

$43

How much do summer guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer guide in New York is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer guide?

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 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 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 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 New York?

The most popular types of Guide jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Summer Guide jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Summer Guide job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Guide job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,841 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Seasonal Monorail Tour Guide

New York, NY


Wildlife Conservation Society
1 - 5K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Good employer

Respectful managers

Good training


$18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Department: Rides
Location: Bronx Zoo
Title: Monorail Tour Guide
Employment Type: Temporary/Seasonal
Status: Non-Exempt
Grade Level: Hourly
Pay Range: $18.50/hour
Reports To: Supervisor
Schedule: Must be able to work weekends and holidays; weekday hours also available
Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm, dependent on weather and guest attendance; schedule subject to change through the spring and summer. Occasional after-hours events.
Position Summary
Tour Guides ensure that our guests enjoy a fun-filled and educational experience on the Wild Asia Monorail.
**A valid Driver's License is mandatory**
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
    Providing educational and enthusiastic narrations to large groups on the Bronx Zoo Monorail
    Providing excellent service to guests, including maintaining general knowledge of park attractions and amenities, answering questions and finding ways to create a great guest experience, in accordance with WCS standards of guest service
    Helping guests enter and exit Monorail with special attention to children, elderly, and disabled patrons
    Maintaining order among guests waiting to enter ride and safely admitting the appropriate number of guests in a timely manner
    Monitoring area and communicating with guests to ensure their safety
    Maintaining cleanliness and organization of assigned work areas as instructed
    Completing other related assignments and helping others on the team as required
    Assist as needed with Event Programming events and special projects
PERKS of Working with Us:
    Free employee access to 5 Parks: Surround yourself with animals of all kinds and get the opportunity to interact and engage with like-minded colleagues.
    Complimentary Parking
    Five Complimentary Guest Park Tickets (After 45 days)
    Company-provided uniforms.
    Access to online learning and tuition discounts with Monroe College
    Earned Paid Sick Time
    Employee Assistance Program
    Free Banking
    Discounts at Food & Merchandise Concessions 
Location
    Bronx Zoo
EOE/M/F/D/V
#LI-DNI
 


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