Overview
Outdoor sport and recreational guides organize and conduct trips or expeditions for sports enthusiasts, adventurers, tourists and resort guests. They are employed by private companies and resorts or may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Plan itinerary for trip or expedition and arrange transportation or transport individuals or group to site
Assemble and inspect necessary equipment and supplies, such as camping gear, hot air balloon, rafts, life jackets, fishing tackle and food
Lead or escort individuals or groups and advise on safety and emergency measures, techniques and the use of equipment
Provide instruction for activities such as canoeing, rafting and mountain climbing
Advise on specific laws and regulations for activities such as hunting, fishing and boating
Follow environmental guidelines and prevent violations
Provide first aid in emergency situations
May prepare meals for group and set up camp.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$34,934
$45,883
$72,996
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
68expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Knowledge of a particular terrain or body of water, demonstrated ability in the guided activity and relevant licences and certifications are required for employment in this group.
Hot air balloon pilots require completion of 10 hours of ground school, 16 hours of pilot-in-command experience and a Balloon Pilot Licence issued by Transport Canada. Additional hours of pilot-in-command experience may be required by some employers.
Certification in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) may be required.
Additional information
- Outdoor sport and recreational guides usually work on a seasonal basis.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Outdoor sport and recreational guides in B.C.
- Basic first aid and CPR - Outdoor Sport and Recreational Guides
- Balloon Pilot License issued by Transport Canada
Basic first aid and CPR - Outdoor Sport and Recreational Guides
To work as a tour or travel guide in BC, you may need to have basic first aid and CPR certification. Eligibilty is achieved by completing a revelant course.
Visit websiteBalloon Pilot License issued by Transport Canada
To work as a hot air balloon pilot in BC, you must complete ground school, practical experience, and be licensed by Transport Canada.
Visit websitePost-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.