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Ecotourism Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ecotourism information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$52.4K

$86.8K

How much do ecotourism jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecotourism in California is $52,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ecotourism?

An ecotourism job involves promoting and leading sustainable travel experiences that emphasize conservation, education, and cultural respect. Professionals in this field work as tour guides, conservation specialists, or eco-lodge managers, ensuring minimal environmental impact while supporting local communities. Responsibilities may include organizing eco-friendly tours, educating travelers on environmental issues, and collaborating with local organizations. The goal is to create meaningful, responsible travel experiences that benefit both nature and people.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ecotourism?

To thrive in ecotourism, you need a solid understanding of environmental science, local ecosystems, sustainable travel practices, and often a relevant degree or certification in tourism or conservation. Experience with reservation systems, GIS software, and familiarity with eco-certification standards are commonly valued. Excellent interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and leadership are important soft skills for guiding tours and working with diverse groups. These abilities are crucial to provide responsible, educational experiences that protect natural habitats and promote environmental stewardship.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in ecotourism?

Working in ecotourism often involves adapting to remote or outdoor environments, unpredictable weather conditions, and managing groups with varying interests and expectations. Professionals in this field may also face the challenge of balancing guest satisfaction with the need to minimize environmental impact and adhere to conservation guidelines. Collaboration with local communities, conservation organizations, and businesses is frequently required to create authentic and sustainable experiences. Staying current with environmental regulations, trends, and best practices is also important for long-term success in this rewarding but dynamic field.

What are ecotourism jobs?

Ecotourism jobs involve working in sustainable travel and environmental conservation, often in natural settings such as parks, reserves, or eco-lodges. Common roles include tour guides, conservation specialists, hospitality staff, and environmental educators, requiring knowledge of local ecosystems and customer service skills.

What are popular job titles related to Ecotourism jobs in California?

For Ecotourism jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ecotourism job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 56% Full Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,415 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Lecturer - ENVS 351: Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (Fall 2026)

California State University

San Marcos, CA • On-site

$6.2K - $13K/mo

Temporary

Re-posted 5 days ago


California State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Lecturer - ENVS 351: Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (Fall 2026)
Job no: 557353
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: San Marcos
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time, Faculty - Natural Sciences
ENVS 351: Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
  • Position: Lecturer
  • Semester: Fall 2026
  • Day/Time: Monday and Wednesday, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.
  • Modality: In-person
  • College: College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences
  • Department: Environment & Geography

The Department of Environment and Geography at California State University San Marcos is accepting applications for Fall 2026. Salary is commensurate with credentials and experience. Seeking lecturers to teach a lower-division physical science general education (5A) course in physical geography. The course description is below.
Course Description
Explores the growing social phenomenon of nature-based outdoor recreation. Analyzes the environmental impact of outdoor leisure and recreation activities. Surveys the potential and limitations of sustainable tourism.
Minimum qualifications:
  • A master's degree in Environmental Studies, Recreation & Tourism Studies, Geography, Sustainability, Ecology, Sociology, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of outdoor recreation, environmental impacts, and/or sustainable tourism.
  • Experience teaching at the college level or evidence of strong potential for effective undergraduate instruction.
  • Ability to teach an upper-division course with interdisciplinary dimensions (environmental, social, cultural, economic).
  • Per the California State University's Out-of-State Employee Policy, the CSU is prohibited from hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside of California. Working in the State of California is a condition of employment.

Preferred qualifications:
  • A doctorate in Environmental Studies, Recreation & Tourism, Geography, Sociology, or a related discipline.
  • Prior teaching experience in areas such as outdoor recreation, environmental impact assessment, tourism studies, environmental management, or sustainability.
  • Professional or research experience related to parks and protected areas, ecotourism, outdoor recreation planning, or human-environment interactions.
  • Understanding of the ecological and social impacts of recreation on natural landscapes.
  • Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate intercultural competence and a commitment to serving a diverse campus community as it relates to teaching and, as applicable, service.

Salary commensurate with degree level and experience
  • Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $5,507 - $8,000 per full-time month

The salary schedule information for the Lecturer - Academic Year Classification is available based on the following ranges:
  • CSU Classification Salary Range Lecturer A - AY: $5,507 - $6,677 per full-time month
  • CSU Classification Salary Range Lecturer B - AY: $6,221 - $13,224 per full-time month

The anticipated hiring range is generally at or near the minimum of the appropriate range, commensurate with education and experience.
Application:
To apply, please prepare to submit the following:
  • Your completed faculty application
  • Curriculum Vitae (uploaded)
  • Contact information for three current references
  • Letter of interest (uploaded)

Timeline: A review of applications will begin on May 8, 2026; however, the position will remain open until filled.
CSUSM has been designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and was recently named one of the top 32 Colleges most friendly to junior faculty by the Collaborative on Academic Careers in Higher Education. Visit Faculty Opportunities for more information.
California State University San Marcos is an Equal Opportunity Employer strongly committed to promoting diversity in all areas of the campus community. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, physical or mental disability, gender or sex, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion or religious creed, sexual orientation and veteran or military status.
Per the California State University's Out-of-State Employment Policy, the CSU is prohibited from hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside California. Working in the State of California is a condition of employment.
The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
This position is subject to employment verification, education verification, reference checks and criminal record checks. An offer of appointment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, including a criminal records check, and may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was conditionally offered the position.
Education Code 89521 Requirements: Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act or Clery Act Notification can be found at Clery Act Notification.
Advertised: Apr 27 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: May 31 2027 Pacific Daylight Time
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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

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Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US