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Outdoor Activity Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nantahala Outdoor Center

SOLO Instructor

Bryson City, NC · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Instructors are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures, leading, and moderating ... activities. Position Qualifications Outdoor and Medical Background * Experience leading trips in ...

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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.

Outdoor Science School Instructor

Mount Hermon Association, Inc

Mount Hermon, CA • On-site

$480 - $510/day

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

* * Please note: This position pays $480-510 per WEEK. Housing and weekday meals are provided. For more info, please go to: www.mounthermon.org/jobs/outdoor-science
Position Objective:
The Outdoor Science School ("OSS") Instructor assumes responsibility for a trail group and teaching science content ranging from 5th-8th grade during scheduled class times, assists in regular program duties, including team-building and adventure activities, and leads extended activities in a manner consistent with MHA's mission, culture code and standards of conduct.
General Qualification:
The Outdoor Science School ("OSS") Instructor is a Ministerial position. Ministerial staff render their work, stewardship, relationships and behavior as evidence of being followers of Jesus Christ while embracing and affirming Mount Hermon Association, Inc.'s ("MHA") Christian mission, vision, beliefs, culture code and standards of conduct. They are responsible for defining, cultivating and leading MHA's Christian community, conference programs and retreats. All staff are expected to join gatherings, which includes prayer, worship, and Bible-centered teaching.
Key Job Accountabilities:
  • Model a genuine Christian lifestyle, encouraging and nurturing expansion of campers' outdoor science knowledge as well as spiritual growth.
  • Engage and participate in staff development and one-to-one meetings with the commitment to being engaged in the MHA OSS community.
  • Read, understand, and experientially teach the curricula for all grade levels taught.
  • Lead and teach/supervise night activities, orientation meetings, and host student meal times.
  • Observe student behavior, respond to health and safety concerns, and deal appropriately with improper/inappropriate behavior to adapt to students with special needs.
  • Recognize hazard in the outdoor setting and respond appropriately to those hazards.
  • Perform any other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • None

Education/Certifications/Licenses:
  • CPR and First Aid certified (Must be acquired before employment).
  • Bachelor's degree preferred.

Work Experience:
  • Previous experience in leadership role, demonstrated ability to supervise children.
  • Previous experience with working with elementary-aged children.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to relate to a variety of age groups and effectively manage a student group.
  • Ability to provide leadership skills and emotional and spiritual maturity.
  • Ability to articulate the gospel of Jesus Christ as communicated in Scripture and through nature.
  • Passionate about science and the outdoors.
  • Ability to teach in a calm, clear and engaging manner with all ages.
  • Mature understanding of camp guidelines and principles and respect for authority and peers.
  • Ability to adjust and problem solve in challenging situations.
  • Ability to engage in a variety of outdoor activities.
  • A heart to serve whenever needed.

Physical Demands:
The physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. It also requires sitting, standing, squatting, stooping, twisting, and hiking 2-5 miles daily. May require lifting of up to 25 lbs. at a time.
Additional Requirements/Skills:
  • Ability to perform naturalist-specific duties.
  • Must have a clean driving record of at least three years, and agree to and comply with MHA's employee driving guidelines for MHA-owned vehicles and use of personal vehicles for business purposes.
  • Adherence to the basic principles as expressed in MHA's Mission, Vision, Values and Commitment statements.
  • Adherence to company dress code and professional standards for personal grooming and appearance.
  • Satisfactory completion of background investigation, or valid work permit, as well as ability to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

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