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Outdoor Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Grinnell College

Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

The Physical Education, Athletics, & Recreation Department is seeking an Outdoor Recreation Assistant to assist with the logistical planning, coordination, and operation of the Grinnell Outdoor ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion, Iowa

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant primary duties include administration, coordination ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

The Views of Marion

Activity Assistant

Marion, IA

$15 - $18/hr

Activity Assistant The Views Senior Living of Marion Position Summary The Activity Assistant is ... Ability to work both indoors and outdoors during community events. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

XCEL

NDE Assistant-Clinton, IA

Clinton, IA · On-site

NDE Assistant The NDE Assistant will assist NDE Technicians in performing specific calibrations ... Work in indoor and outdoor environments in conditions of extreme heat and cold * Work in and near ...

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Outdoor Assistant information

What is an outdoor assistant?

Outdoor Assistants are professionals who support outdoor programs, activities, or facilities, such as camps, parks, or adventure centers. Their responsibilities typically include setting up equipment, leading or assisting with group activities, maintaining outdoor spaces, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of participants. They often work under the supervision of outdoor educators or managers and may also help with administrative tasks. Outdoor Assistants play a key role in creating positive experiences in outdoor settings for groups of all ages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor assistant?

To thrive as an Outdoor Assistant, you need a solid understanding of outdoor safety, basic first aid, and experience with outdoor activities, often supported by relevant certifications like CPR or Wilderness First Aid. Familiarity with equipment such as camping gear, GPS devices, and trail mapping tools is valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you engage with groups and manage unexpected challenges in diverse environments. These skills ensure safety, effective group management, and a positive experience for participants during outdoor programs.

What are some common challenges outdoor assistants face, and how can they prepare for them?

Outdoor Assistants often work in varying weather conditions and may encounter physically demanding tasks, such as lifting equipment or hiking long distances. Adapting to unpredictable environments and ensuring the safety of participants are key challenges. Preparation involves maintaining physical fitness, staying updated on outdoor safety protocols, and developing strong communication skills to effectively support team members and participants. Collaborating closely with supervisors and being proactive in problem-solving also helps manage unexpected situations.

What is the difference between Outdoor Assistant vs Landscape Technician?

AspectOutdoor AssistantLandscape Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications in landscaping or horticulture beneficial
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, gardens, parks, construction sitesOutdoor environments, gardens, commercial and residential landscapes
Employer & Industry UsageLandscaping companies, parks, golf coursesLandscaping firms, garden centers, municipal parks
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Outdoor Assistants and Landscape Technicians work outdoors and support landscaping projects, Landscape Technicians typically have more specialized skills and certifications, perform more complex tasks, and may work more independently. Outdoor Assistants often handle basic tasks like planting, watering, and site cleanup under supervision. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles that match their skills and career goals.

What job should I do if I love the outdoors?

An outdoor assistant role involves working outside in natural environments, often assisting with maintenance, events, or educational programs. Skills in teamwork, physical fitness, and knowledge of outdoor tools or safety procedures are important for this type of job.

What are the most commonly searched types of Outdoor jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Outdoor jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Outdoor Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Outdoor Assistant job openings:

Outdoor Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA • On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Grinnell College rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Physical Education, Athletics, & Recreation Department is seeking an Outdoor Recreation Assistant to assist with the logistical planning, coordination, and operation of the Grinnell Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP). GORP consists of off-campus adventure trips, an indoor climbing wall, and outdoor equipment rental. Responsibilities include assisting with the management of the climbing wall, assisting with the management of the outdoor equipment rental program, and supporting student trip leaders with logistics for off-campus adventure trips.
This role requires some travel (up to 30%) and the ability to work some nights and weekends.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with management of outdoor equipment rentals, including inventory, inspection, and reservations
  • Assist with management of the climbing wall by assisting with equipment inspections and performing spot checks on climbing wall staff
  • Support student trip leaders with trip planning and logistics; co-lead out-of-state trips with student trip leaders
  • Assist with the training of GORP student employees

*This role is a full-time term position, benefits-eligible, working 9 months (academic year), 1560 hours worked in the fiscal year. Eligible post-baccalaureate candidates must have completed their degree no later than May 2025.
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or commensurate advanced experience involving coursework or certifications in outdoor recreation or emergency preparedness.
  • 6 months or less of work experience.
  • Ability to drive minivans and large 11-passenger vans.
  • Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Plan, organize, and efficiently manage their workload.
  • Communicate effectively utilizing various modes of communication.

Preferred Requirements
  • CPR/First Aid/AED certification.
  • Wilderness medicine certification (wilderness first aid, wilderness advanced first aid, wilderness first responder, wilderness EMT)
  • Experience leading adventure trips.
  • Climbing wall instructor certification.
  • Experience with route setting.

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