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Waterfowl Hunting Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... guides and vendor requirements * Develop and maintain a robust inventory management system; conduct ... It's a place where the fishing is legendary, deer and waterfowl hunting are world-class, and a ...

... waterfowl hunting season, assisting with environmental education programs and developing outreach materials, and helping lead guided nature walks and other recreation activities. The ranger will also ...

Waterfowl Hunting Guide information

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$7

$17

$29

How much do waterfowl hunting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterfowl hunting guide in the United States is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a duck hunting guide?

To become a waterfowl hunting guide, you typically need experience in hunting and knowledge of waterfowl behavior, along with a valid hunting license. Many guides obtain certifications in first aid and safety, and some regions require a professional guide license or permit. Developing skills in outdoor navigation, equipment handling, and customer service is also important for success in this role.

How much does a waterfowl guide make?

Waterfowl hunting guides typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, with income varying based on experience, location, and the number of clients served. Many guides supplement their income through tips and seasonal work, and certifications in safety and hunting regulations can enhance earning potential.

How much do hunting guides make per season?

Waterfowl hunting guides typically earn between $10,000 and $30,000 per season, depending on experience, location, and client volume. Guides often supplement income through tips and may work part-time or full-time during hunting seasons, which usually last several months.

What is the difference between Waterfowl Hunting Guide vs Hunting Guide?

AspectWaterfowl Hunting GuideHunting Guide
CertificationsState hunting licenses, waterfowl identification, safety trainingGeneral hunting licenses, safety training
Work EnvironmentWetlands, lakes, rivers, outdoor terrainsForests, fields, outdoor terrains
Employer & IndustryGuided waterfowl hunts, outdoor recreation companiesVarious hunting excursions, outdoor tourism

Waterfowl Hunting Guides specialize in guiding clients during waterfowl hunts, requiring specific waterfowl identification and safety certifications. Hunting Guides have broader roles across different game types and environments. While both roles involve outdoor guiding and safety, Waterfowl Hunting Guides focus on waterfowl-specific skills and environments, making them more specialized within the hunting industry.

Can you make a living as a hunting guide?

A waterfowl hunting guide can make a living depending on factors such as location, experience, client base, and season length. Income often comes from guiding fees, tips, and additional services like equipment rentals or lodging. Successful guides typically need good communication skills, knowledge of local waterfowl patterns, and relevant licenses or certifications.
More about Waterfowl Hunting Guide jobs
What states have the most Waterfowl Hunting Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Waterfowl Hunting Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Waterfowl Hunting Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Waterfowl Hunting Guide jobs are:
Infographic showing various Waterfowl Hunting Guide job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 29% Temporary. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Individual Placement - Park Ranger

Individual Placement - Park Ranger

Student Conservation Association

Burbank, WA • On-site

$1.1K/wk

Temporary

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position Summary
The Park Ranger (Visitor Services) will help connect visitors, youth, and community members to the diverse habitats and wildlife of McNary National Wildlife Refuge. This position supports public engagement by staffing the visitor center, working as the hunter check station attendant for the waterfowl hunting season, assisting with environmental education programs and developing outreach materials, and helping lead guided nature walks and other recreation activities. The ranger will also participate in community outreach by bringing refuge led programs to local schools, parks, and partner organizations. Through this service term, the member will build skills in environmental education, outdoor leadership, communication, and public engagement. This role is ideal for someone interested in conservation careers and passionate about helping people experience and enjoy their public lands.
Hosting Organization
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
Katie Maikis, katherine_maikis@fws.gov, (509) 210-2198)
Location
Burbank, WA
Schedule
July 13, 2026 - February 13, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
  • Staff an information desk at the visitor center: welcome visitors, answer questions, and provide orientation to trails and facilities
  • Serving as the hunt check station attendant during hunting season (October-January; early mornings on Wed, Sat, and Sun)
  • Assist with environmental education and outdoor recreation programs delivered both on refuge and in community settings (schools, parks, community centers, etc.)
  • Support visitors by providing recommendations on trails, seasonal wildlife viewing, and safe outdoor recreation opportunities
  • Assist in development of education and outreach materials
  • Support special event programming at the refuge

Marginal Duties
  • Prepare social media posts for the refuge complex on a wide variety of refuge or conservation topics
  • Assist in trail maintenance, trash clean-up, and habitat restoration projects
  • Assist in basic facilities maintenance and upkeep

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma
  • Driver's License (& reliable transportation)
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and collaboratively with diverse groups
  • Ability to communicate one's needs and expectations with supervisor or other staff
  • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions (including high temperatures), terrain ranging from rocky hillslopes to mucky wetlands, and exposure to biting insects

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in public speaking, research, environmental education, community outreach is desired, but not required
  • Knowledge of or experience with outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, etc. is desired but not required
  • Knowledge of or experience with the fields of biology, ecology, wildlife management, botany, forestry, or hydrology is desired but not required
  • Bilingual fluency in Spanish is desired but not required
  • Experience operating kayaks and canoes

Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Housing is provided on-site in shared, dorm-style housing. Rooms may be individually occupied or shared with another person. Bunkhouse features a large kitchen and communal living space, laundry facilities, and showers.
Compensation
  • A one-time travel allowance of $1,100
  • A weekly living allowance of $620
  • Reimbursement funding for $200 (receipts required)
  • On-site housing provided
  • PLC eligibility

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
  • Required

Additional Benefits
  • Defensive Driving Training
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Interpretive Skills
  • Off-Road Vehicle Safety
  • AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.