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Full Time Outdoor Education Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our full-time seasonal Outdoor Educator will report to the Education Manager and lead and support outdoor education and nature interpretation programs on-site for Sanctuary visitors of all ages, with ...

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Full Time Outdoor Education information

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$28K

$62.3K

$97.5K

How much do full time outdoor education jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time outdoor education in the United States is $62,323.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Outdoor Education Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Outdoor Education Instructor, you need expertise in environmental science, outdoor leadership, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant degree and certifications like Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Familiarity with navigation tools, outdoor equipment, and risk management systems is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and group facilitation skills help engage participants and foster a positive learning environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring participant safety, delivering effective educational experiences, and promoting environmental stewardship.

What is a Full Time Outdoor Education job?

A Full Time Outdoor Education job involves teaching and facilitating learning experiences in outdoor settings, such as camps, nature centers, schools, or adventure programs. Professionals in this field design and lead activities that might include environmental education, team-building exercises, outdoor skills training, and adventure sports. These roles aim to foster personal growth, environmental awareness, and leadership skills in participants, often focusing on children and young adults. Full-time positions may require planning curriculum, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety standards are met during all activities.

What is the difference between Full Time Outdoor Education vs Outdoor Recreation Instructor?

AspectFull Time Outdoor EducationOutdoor Recreation Instructor
CredentialsCertifications in outdoor education, CPR, first aidCPR, first aid, specialized outdoor activity certifications
Work EnvironmentSchools, camps, outdoor education centersRecreation centers, adventure parks, outdoor programs
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, non-profits, governmentPrivate companies, recreation organizations

Full Time Outdoor Education roles focus on teaching outdoor skills and environmental awareness in educational settings, often requiring certifications in outdoor education. Outdoor Recreation Instructors typically lead recreational activities like rafting or climbing, with similar certifications. Both roles involve outdoor environments but differ mainly in their primary focus and employer type.

What are some common challenges faced in a full-time outdoor education role and how can new employees prepare for them?

Full-time outdoor education professionals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, managing group safety in dynamic environments, and adapting lesson plans on the fly. New employees can prepare by developing strong risk assessment skills, maintaining physical fitness, and becoming proficient in outdoor leadership techniques. Building flexibility and clear communication skills also helps to foster positive group experiences, especially when collaborating with teachers, parents, and other instructors.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Outdoor Education jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Outdoor Education job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Outdoor Education jobs? The most popular types of Outdoor Education jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Outdoor Education jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Outdoor Education jobs include:
Infographic showing various Full Time Outdoor Education job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,323 per year, or $30 per hour.

$32.97 - $35.71/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Compensation: $60,000 - $65,000/year ($32.97 - $35.71/hour)

Full Time Hourly (35 hours/week)


Position Overview
The Outdoor Education Coordinator leads community initiatives that connect people of all ages to Anchorage's parks, trails, and natural spaces through environmental education, outdoor learning, and community engagement. This role combines outdoor education program development and delivery, partnership development, and stewardship engagement. The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, and passionate about stewardship and creating meaningful outdoor experiences.

The Anchorage Park Foundation (APF) is a community-based nonprofit that mobilizes support and funding to improve Anchorage's parks, trails, and recreation opportunities. We expand access to outdoor recreation, strengthen community health, connect neighborhoods to nature, and foster civic engagement through programs that engage youth, and improve trails, parks, and playgrounds.
Benefits Include:

  • Health care premium reimbursement
  • 403(b) retirement match
  • Generous PTO and holidays
  • Wellness stipend
  • Flexible, supportive work environment


Primary Responsibilities

Environmental & Outdoor Education Programs

  • Develop, coordinate, and deliver engaging environmental education and outdoor learning experiences for youth of all ages, families, and community members.
  • Serve as the Field Educator for the summer Youth Employment in Parks program, providing environmental education, outdoor recreation activities, career exploration, and mentorship for teenage participants.
  • Coordinate and lead Outdoor School in Parks program for 5th graders coordinating participation from the National Park Service, Anchorage Waterways Council, Anchorage Museum, and other partners.
  • Design hands-on learning activities that connect participants to Anchorage parks, trails, streams, and natural areas while fostering stewardship and appreciation for public lands.
  • Support teacher trainings, curriculum development, and educational resources that expand opportunities for outdoor learning.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

  • Build and maintain partnerships with schools, community organizations, and agencies to expand access to outdoor education, recreation, and stewardship opportunities.
  • Develop and support programs, events, and outreach activities that engage families and community members in Anchorage parks and trails.
  • Identify opportunities to increase participation among diverse audiences and strengthen community connections to public spaces.
  • Represent Anchorage Park Foundation at community events, meetings, and partner gatherings while promoting programs that encourage residents to explore, care for, and invest in Anchorage parks and trails.

Program, Project & Funding Management

  • Coordinate program planning, logistics, schedules, supplies, volunteers, communications, and implementation for environmental education and community engagement activities.
  • Collaborate with APF staff, Anchorage Parks and Recreation, Anchorage School District, and community partners to implement, evaluate, and grow programs.
  • Manage program and funding deliverables, including tracking participation, outcomes, timelines, budgets, and project milestones.
  • Support reporting, partner coordination, outcome documentation, and communication of program impacts to funders and community stakeholders.
  • Collect photos, testimonials, and stories that demonstrate community impact and support APF communications, fundraising, and storytelling efforts.
  • Identify opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, and funding support to advance environmental education and outdoor engagement initiatives.


Preferred Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience leading environmental/outdoor education, youth programs, community engagement, parks and recreation, outdoor recreation, or a related field.
  • Confident and passionate about leading youth and families in outdoor recreation activities.
  • Organized, self-directed, and able to manage multiple projects
  • Strong communicator with solid computer skills (Microsoft 365)
  • Willing to obtain First Aid/CPR certification
  • Available for occasional evenings and weekends
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Committed to equity, inclusion, and community-centered work
  • Enthusiastic about being outside and making a visible difference

Required Qualification

  • Must successfully complete a background check and comply with Anchorage School District requirements and policies for working with students and youth participants.


First review of applications will begin the week of August 3, 2026. This position will remain open until filled.

Anchorage Park Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace grounded in respect, equity, and belonging. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.