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Summer Guide Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ENDLESS HORIZONS

Lifeguard

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Summer availability required. Duties: * Teach swim participants of all ages and swimming abilities ... Ability to serve as a visual and auditory guide to participants through a variety of activities.

FSAP and PETA

Tour Crew Positions

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.50/hr

You'll live on the road throughout tour seasons each year: winter/spring, summer, and fall. Altogether, this equates to 7 - 9 months on the road each year, give or take, with breaks in between tour ...

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All JobsSummer Guide JobsSummer Guide Jobs in Virginia

Summer Guide information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do summer guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer guide in Virginia is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.76 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 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 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Guide jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Summer Guide jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Summer Guide job openings:

Summer Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Guide job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,635 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Lifeguard

ENDLESS HORIZONS

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Lifeguard will support the Aquatics programs at various Endless Horizons locations. The candidate will provide a safe and fun experience during instruction (including lifeguarding and group classes) while also providing direction and development opportunities for participants.

This postition will support with Summer programming. Summer availability required.

Duties:

  • Teach swim participants of all ages and swimming abilities how to be safe in a water environment.
  • Supervise a group of 10-20 swimmers (on average) as a lifeguard and/or swim instructor.
  • Instruct swimming lessons for individuals and groups of varying age ranges.
  • Encourage swim participants to respect other participants, personal property, equipment, and the facilities.
  • Uphold a respectful environment in and outside of the pool through cleanliness, punctuality, respect for others, and the environment.

Qualifications:

  • Current First Aid/CPR/AED certification required
  • Current Lifeguard certification required
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license
  • Must be able to successfully complete a background check
  • Must be available during week days in the summer months
  • Previous water safety instructor experience, and/or working with children is preferred.
  • Ability to express ideas and communicate safety regulations and emergency procedures to swim participants.
  • Ability to quickly identify and to respond to environmental hazards related to swimming activities.
  • Meet physical demands of the position.
  • Ability to serve as a visual and auditory guide to participants through a variety of activities.
  • Desire to work with children and a diverse group of participants.
  • Desire and ability to work in an outdoor environment

Generally weekdays through Summer 2025