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Outdoor Activity Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMIkids

Activities Instructor - AMIKids Aspen

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

If you have a passion for the outdoors, and experiences like hiking, kayaking, rope climbing, scuba ... Maintain activity plans, instructional materials, equipment, and safety standards, * Evaluate ...

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Outdoor Activity Instructor information

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How much do outdoor activity instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor activity instructor in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outdoor Activity Instructor vs Adventure Guide?

AspectOutdoor Activity InstructorAdventure Guide
CertificationsFirst aid, CPR, activity-specific certificationsFirst aid, CPR, outdoor skills certifications
Work EnvironmentSchools, camps, recreation centersOutdoor expeditions, tours, adventure parks
Employer & IndustryRecreation, education, youth programsTourism, outdoor adventure companies

Both roles involve guiding participants in outdoor activities, requiring similar certifications like first aid and CPR. However, Outdoor Activity Instructors typically work in educational or recreational settings, focusing on teaching skills or safety, while Adventure Guides lead clients on outdoor expeditions or tours, emphasizing adventure and exploration. The choice depends on whether you prefer a structured teaching environment or leading outdoor adventures for tourists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor activity instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Activity Instructor, you need expertise in outdoor sports, safety protocols, and first aid, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or activity-specific qualifications (e.g., climbing or kayaking instructor certificates). Familiarity with safety equipment, navigation tools (like GPS and compasses), and risk assessment systems is essential. Strong soft skills include leadership, effective communication, and adaptability to changing outdoor conditions. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring participant safety, delivering engaging experiences, and managing dynamic outdoor environments.

How do outdoor activity instructors balance safety and adventure in their daily responsibilities?

Outdoor Activity Instructors are responsible for creating engaging, adventurous experiences while maintaining the highest safety standards. This involves conducting thorough risk assessments, providing clear safety briefings, and adapting activities based on participants' abilities and environmental conditions. Instructors must constantly monitor both the group and surroundings, intervening when necessary to prevent accidents. Balancing fun and safety requires strong communication skills, situational awareness, and continuous professional training.

What is an outdoor activity instructor?

Outdoor activity instructors are professionals who lead and supervise individuals or groups in a range of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, climbing, kayaking, or camping. They are responsible for teaching skills, ensuring safety, organizing activities, and fostering a positive experience in nature. Instructors often work with schools, youth groups, or adventure companies, and they may also provide first aid and risk assessments. Their role combines teaching, leadership, and a passion for the outdoors.

What states have the most Outdoor Activity Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Outdoor Activity Instructor jobs include:

Outdoor Activity Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Activity Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,254 per year, or $16 per hour.

Activities Instructor - AMIKids Aspen

AMIkids

Columbia, SC • On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

AMIkids rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you looking for a job where you create the adventure every day, where you can have more fun than the youth you're mentoring, and fulfill your purpose?
If you have a passion for the outdoors, and experiences like hiking, kayaking, rope climbing, scuba diving, and team-building activities?
If you answered Yes!! Then, AMIkids, Inc. maybe the perfect organization for you.
WHY AMIkids?
At AMIkids, we believe learning extends beyond the classroom. Through our nationally recognized Experiential Education program, youth participate in hands-on adventures that build confidence, resilience, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Every experience is intentionally designed to help young people discover their strengths and believe, "I Can."
We're seeking an energetic and adventurous Activities Instructor to lead engaging indoor, outdoor, and community-based activities that inspire personal growth. In this role, you'll mentor and motivate youth through experiential learning while fostering leadership, responsibility, and healthy decision-making. If you thrive in an active environment and enjoy helping young people reach their full potential, we'd love to have you on the AMIkids team.
Video: We Are AMIkids | Website: www.AMIkids.org
What You Will Be Doing:
  • Plan, coordinate, and lead experiential education activities, including indoor, outdoor, community-based, and adventure programming,
  • Teach and coach youth through recreational, leadership, team-building, challenge course, and outdoor learning experiences,
  • Create a safe, structured environment where youth develop confidence, resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences,
  • Maintain activity plans, instructional materials, equipment, and safety standards,
  • Evaluate student progress through practical demonstrations and certification-based instruction,
  • Serve as a mentor and positive role model while ensuring the safety and supervision of youth during all activities,
  • Respond appropriately to behavioral incidents and emergencies using approved intervention techniques,
  • Participate in day trips, adventure outings, community service projects, and special events,
  • Maintain required certifications, including CPR, First Aid, Lifeguard, Challenge Course Instructor, and crisis intervention training,
  • Transport young people to program activities and assist with special projects as needed,

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Four (4) years of related experience (aquatics, ropes/challenge course, outdoor recreation, adventure programming, coaching, or similar).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Lifeguard and Challenge Course Instructor certifications.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
  • Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
  • Passion for experiential learning and youth development.

What's in it for you?
As well as gain an opportunity to make an exceptional difference in kids' lives, AMIkids offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Growth opportunities - we pride ourselves on developing our leaders from within
  • Health Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, & Prescription Drug plan options; Health Spending Account, Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D
  • PTO & Paid Holidays
  • Wellness Benefits - EAP, Health Coaching, Stress Management Programs, etc.
  • Employer Funded Pension Plan, Voluntary 403(B) Retirement Plan, Student Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Pet Insurance, World Travel Assistance, Car Rental discounts, Gym Membership discounts, and more.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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