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Tour Operator Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Visitcatalinaisland

Ocean Tour Operator

Avalon, CA · On-site

$34.77/hr

As a Boat Tour Operator tours include the Undersea Sub Expedition, Glass Bottom Boat, Discover Two Harbors, and the seasonal Flying fish Voyage. U.S. Coast Guard (U.S.C.G) Licensed Personnel ...

Ventura TRAVEL

A South African, Namibian or Botswana resident with a National Tour Guide license and PdP ... Ensuring the safety of our travelers and operating a smooth tour. * In some cases, manage company ...

ASM Global

Tour Ambassador Supervisor

Inglewood, CA

$22/hr

Be knowledgeable about all parts of SoFi Stadium that are on the tour route and in the operating guideline * Facilitate Field Activities as needed * Lead Tour Guides and Tour Ambassadors during ...

ASM Global

Tour Ambassador Supervisor

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Be knowledgeable about all parts of SoFi Stadium that are on the tour route and in the operating guideline * Facilitate Field Activities as needed * Lead Tour Guides and Tour Ambassadors during ...

Alliance Redwoods

Zip Line Guide

Occidental, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Ensure guests are properly fitted in gear and oriented to zip lining * Assist lead guides with pre-tour and post-tour set-up and clean-up * Regularly inspect facilities for cleanliness and readiness ...

Generali Global Assistance

Sr FP&A Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

US travel insurance brand for retail, tour operator, cruise and lodging partners. Learn more here ... a guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness, or physical handicap, or any other ...

Generali Global Assistance

Sr FP&A Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

US travel insurance brand for retail, tour operator, cruise and lodging partners. Learn more here ... a guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness, or physical handicap, or any other ...

Generali Global Assistance

Sr FP&A Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

US travel insurance brand for retail, tour operator, cruise and lodging partners. Learn more here ... a guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness, or physical handicap, or any other ...

The Broad

Ticketing & Group Sales Coordinator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... tour operators in support of established revenue and attendance goals. * Coordinates with Visitor Experience Manager to ensure appropriate staffing for all tours, school visits, and self-guided group ...

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All JobsTour Operator Guide JobsTour Operator Guide Jobs in California

Tour Operator Guide information

What is the difference between Tour Operator Guide vs Tour Guide?

AspectTour Operator GuideTour Guide
CredentialsOften requires customer service or hospitality experience, sometimes certifications in tourismUsually needs a tour guiding license or certification specific to the region
Work EnvironmentWorks with tour operators, plans itineraries, manages logisticsLeads groups during tours, provides information on sites
Employer & IndustryEmployed by tour companies or travel agenciesEmployed by tour companies, museums, or independently
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles in tourism planning and logisticsPeople seeking on-site guiding roles and visitor interaction

While both roles involve working with tourists, a Tour Operator Guide focuses on planning, logistics, and coordinating tours behind the scenes, whereas a Tour Guide leads visitors during tours, providing information and ensuring a positive experience on-site.

What are Tour Operator Guides?

Tour Operator Guides are professionals who organize and lead tours for groups or individuals, ensuring that travelers have informative, enjoyable, and safe experiences. They plan itineraries, arrange transportation and accommodations, provide commentary on the destinations, and handle logistics throughout the trip. Tour Operator Guides also act as liaisons between travelers and local services, helping to solve problems and answer questions. Their expertise in the local culture, history, and attractions greatly enhances the travel experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Tour Operator Guides, and how can they be managed on the job?

Tour Operator Guides often navigate challenges such as managing diverse group dynamics, handling unexpected changes in itinerary, and addressing traveler concerns on the spot. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and thorough preparation are key to overcoming these obstacles. Guides typically rely on their knowledge of local attractions and problem-solving abilities to ensure a positive experience for all participants, even when plans change suddenly due to weather, transportation issues, or guest needs. Building rapport with guests and collaborating closely with other team members, such as drivers and coordinators, also helps in delivering a seamless tour experience.

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

To thrive as a Tour Operator Guide, you need in-depth knowledge of local history, geography, and culture, usually supported by relevant training or tourism certifications. Familiarity with booking systems, itinerary planning software, and possibly foreign language skills are often required. Exceptional communication, interpersonal skills, and adaptability help guides engage diverse groups and handle unexpected situations. These skills ensure memorable, safe, and informative experiences for clients, which are essential for positive reviews and repeat business.
What are popular job titles related to Tour Operator Guide jobs in California? For Tour Operator Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tour Operator Guide jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Tour Operator Guide jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Tour Operator Guide jobs? Cities in California with the most Tour Operator Guide job openings:
Tour Operator Guide jobs near you
Tour Operator Guide - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Tour Operator Guide - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Escondido, CA • On-site

$29.99/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Tour Operator Guide performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Tour Operator Guide works under general supervision to engage and captivate guests through storytelling while operating vehicles and in department areas. They are responsible for facilitating tours, queuing, loading, and dispatching safely and efficiently, providing an exceptional experience for our guests at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This position reports to the Wildlife Safari Supervisor.
This class differs from the Educator Guide class at the Zoo and Safari Park in that the Educator Guide handles wildlife.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Serves as the voice for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, offering captivating an educational tours and connections that introduce our guests to plant, wildlife, conservation science, and our leadership role in the conservation community.
  • Operates vehicles in a manner that promotes our reputation for safety and professionalism including responding to medical and mechanical emergencies as needed. Closely observes pathway conditions and riders, actively looks for and reporting potential safety hazards, and follows department guidelines on timeliness to ensure the efficiency of the department.
  • Facilitates boarding processes and engage with guests to answer questions and ensure adherence to safety guidelines. Records and input guest counts and operational data.
  • Provides consistently welcoming guest service throughout all job assignments.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Safari Experiences is seeking an individual who is inspired to be part of an organization that is committed to protecting wildlife around the globe. The Tour Operator Guide will lead premium tours throughout the San Diego Zoo Safari Park while upholding high guest service and safety standards. Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and personable applicants are encouraged to apply. Preferred candidates would have experience with some or all of the following: engaging with audiences of all backgrounds, sharing conservation stories in an engaging manner, and excellent teamwork skills. Schedule availability of at least 4 days a week, including both weekend days, is highly desirable.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Training and/or experience which would demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined. An example of which would be prior training or education in the life sciences and prior experience in public speaking; must be 18 years of age.
  • Valid California Driver License And Upon Hire required
  • Valid California Class B Driver License preferred

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of:
  • Zoology, with special attention to the care and unique qualities of the wildlife in residence
  • Layout of the Zoo or Safari Park
  • Organization policies, rules and practices
  • Public speaking
  • Principles of public relations

Ability to:
  • Communicate clear and concise via an amplified public address system
  • Operate tour vehicle safely and efficiently
  • Handle repetition and unruly passengers
  • Update knowledge of animal exhibit and condition changes
  • Distinguish wildlife in camouflaged habitats
  • Follow directions effectively
  • Handle physical, medical, and mechanical emergencies
  • Monitor sounds
  • Perform the duties outlined above

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS
  • Location: Escondido, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected there will be union fees and dues to be paid to the Union.
  • Hourly Rate: $29.99

About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

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