Pathfinders Guide

Love exploring the outdoors and inspiring kids to do the same? As a Pathfinders Guide, you’ll lead a small group of 5-12 year-olds on unforgettable adventures through San Diego’s most iconic parks and trails, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a deep connection to nature. If you're experienced in group childcare, thrive in dynamic outdoor settings, and are ready for whatever the trail brings, we’d love to have you on our team!

  • Pathfinders Guides receive a flat daily rate of $200 for each adventure-led session. Guides arrive on location ready to greet their group at 8:00 AM and conclude their day by 4:15 PM, leading a dynamic and engaging outdoor experience. Each guide is provided with a 30-minute lunch break and a 15-minute afternoon break to recharge before continuing the adventure.

  • Pathfinders is a seasonal adventure camp that runs Monday through Friday during spring break, winter break, and summer break, aligning with the schedules of San Diego Unified, La Mesa-Spring Valley, and Coronado Unified School Districts. Many campers return week after week for new experiences, so consistency is key. Guides must be able to commit to at least one full week of camp to be considered, with preference given to those available for multiple weeks. This role is perfect for teachers and educators looking to pick up extra work during school breaks, as guides can sign up for week-long shifts based on their availability. Those who complete onboarding and remain in good standing are invited to return seasonally—whether each summer, each spring break, or whenever it’s convenient for them.

  • Each Pathfinders Guide is responsible for overseeing a group of five children throughout the day, ensuring their safety, engagement, and enjoyment on the trail. Guides should be prepared to temporarily step in and oversee an additional group of five in the event of scheduled breaks or emergencies. This collaborative approach helps maintain a smooth, supportive experience for both guides and participants while keeping the adventure flowing seamlessly.

  • Pathfinders Guides should be prepared to lead groups of children ages 5-12, fostering adventure, exploration, and teamwork in an outdoor setting. While all guides must be adaptable and ready to engage with any age group, we strive to match each guide with the group that best aligns with their experience and strengths. If a guide has particular expertise with younger or older children, we will do our best to accommodate preferences while ensuring a balanced and enriching experience for all participants.

    Our age groups are as follows:

    • 5-6

    • 7-8

    • 9-10

    • 11-12

A group of children are participating in a tug-of-war game outdoors on a grassy field. The boy at the front wearing glasses and a grey jacket is pulling the rope, making an exaggerated facial expression. Other children are lined up behind him, holding the rope tightly and smiling, with some looking excited and others focused. The setting appears to be a cloudy day in a rural or park area.

What are a Pathfinder Guide’s daily responsibilities?

Pathfinders Guides oversee a variety of activities designed to engage children in outdoor exploration, teamwork, and creativity. Each day includes a mix of:

  • Trail Adventures – Leading hikes and nature walks through San Diego’s scenic parks and trails.

  • Group Challenges & Games – Facilitating team-building activities, scavenger hunts, and nature-based problem-solving games.

  • Hands-On Nature Exploration – Encouraging curiosity through activities like wildlife observation, plant identification, and rock or shell collecting.

  • Art & Creativity – Guiding and overseeing arts and crafts, storytelling sessions, and journaling.

  • Lunch & Breaktime Supervision – Overseeing snack and meal breaks, ensuring kids stay hydrated and refueled for the adventure ahead.

  • Unstructured Play & Reflection – Allowing time for free play, quiet reflection, and group discussions about the day's discoveries.

Scenic view of a large lake surrounded by rolling hills and tall mountains in the distance under a cloudy sky.
Stone pathway with steps, large rocks, and landscaped plants in front of rolling green hills and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Ready to become a Guide?

Interested in becoming a Pathfinders Guide? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly to let you know that we received notice of your interest and set up a time for a virtual interview with the most qualified applicants.