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Backpacking Gear information

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$7

$19

$39

How much do backpacking gear jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for backpacking gear in the United States is $19.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is backpacking gear?

Backpacking gear refers to the essential equipment and supplies that hikers and travelers carry with them when trekking or camping in the outdoors. This typically includes items such as a backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking supplies, food, water filtration, clothing, and navigation tools. The goal is to pack lightweight, durable, and multi-functional items to ensure safety, comfort, and self-sufficiency while exploring remote or wilderness areas.

What are some common challenges faced by backpacking gear specialists and how can they be managed effectively?

Backpacking gear specialists often encounter challenges such as staying updated on the latest outdoor equipment, understanding diverse customer needs, and balancing product knowledge with sales skills. To manage these effectively, specialists regularly attend product training sessions, participate in field testing, and collaborate closely with team members to share insights. Building strong relationships with suppliers and actively seeking customer feedback also helps ensure they can recommend the most suitable gear and respond to changing market trends.

What is the difference between Backpacking Gear vs Hiking Gear?

AspectBackpacking GearHiking Gear
Required credentials or certificationsNo specific certifications neededNo specific certifications needed
Work environmentOvernight or multi-day outdoor trips, often in remote areasDay trips or short hikes, usually in accessible locations
Employer and industry usageOutdoor retailers, adventure guides, outdoor enthusiastsOutdoor retailers, hiking clubs, outdoor enthusiasts
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding gear for multi-day tripsGear for day hikes and short excursions

Backpacking Gear and Hiking Gear are related but serve different purposes. Backpacking Gear is designed for multi-day trips, requiring larger, more durable equipment, while Hiking Gear is suited for day trips with lighter, simpler items. Choosing the right gear depends on the trip duration and environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backpacking Gear Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backpacking Gear Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of outdoor equipment, product specifications, and customer service, often supported by experience in outdoor retail or relevant certifications. Familiarity with inventory management systems, point-of-sale (POS) software, and gear-related safety standards is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a genuine passion for outdoor activities help specialists connect with customers and offer tailored advice. These skills are crucial for ensuring customers select the right gear for their needs, promoting safety and satisfaction on outdoor adventures.
Infographic showing various Backpacking Gear job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Rockwall and HPE Field Assistant

Rockwall and HPE Field Assistant

Mt. Hood Community College

Gresham, OR

$16.30/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary and Responsibilities/Duties Job Summary Assists with the day-to-day operation of the Mt. Hood Community College Rockwall and Health and Physical Education (HPE) field outings. Essential Duties Monitors climbing activities including completion of liability waivers by participants, safety technique and belay instruction/testing, and supervision of climbers.

Provides orientation for new participants. Ensures proper check-out/in of all Rockwall equipment. Cleans and maintains the Rockwall.

Assists with logistics, monitoring safety, and emergencies on field outings. Additional Duties Assists in driving for field outings. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum and Desired Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Ability to read, write, and communicate at a level sufficient to perform the functions of the positio Possession of, or ability to obtain, First-Aid and CPR certification within 30 days of hire Preferred Qualifications High School Diploma or GED Experience in outdoor pursuits such as backpacking, climbing, rafting, etc. Climbing Wall Instructor certification (PCIA, AMGA, PCGI, or similar) Appropriate, valid driver's license, ability to insured by the college insurance carrier, and at least three (3) years of driving history Additional Qualifications and/or Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to communicate well with others verbally and written. Knowledge of outdoor equipment such as climbing gear, clothing, and backpacking gear.

Good customer service. Working Conditions and Important Information Working Conditions Work is typically performed in an outdoor environment. The position is frequently required to stand, push, pull, climb, reach, and lift.

Person should be able to perform several physical tasks and hike for up to eight hours a day over a distance of 10-15 miles a day, and have the ability to live and perform in a variety of environments. Physical demands may include carrying a backpack weighing between 50 - 85 pounds over uneven terrain such as snow, rocks, boulders, fallen logs, or slippery surfaces as well as ascending and descending steep mountain slopes. In addition, weather can be extreme depending on the field outing and time of year.

Salary Placement Initial salary placement will be within the posted range or pay rate of the position, and is based on applicable education and/or years of relevant full-time equivalent experience at the sole discretion of the College and in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws. Please include all relevant education and full and part-time experience (including unpaid and volunteer experience) in your application that you want the College to review towards potential placement. Hired employees will not have an opportunity to update past education and/or experience or appeal initial placement after the time of hire.

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