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Outdoor Classroom

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Outdoor Education Instructor

Freedom, NH · On-site

$615/wk

Outdoor Education Instructor Are you passionate about the environment, teaching, and being in nature? Outdoor Classroom is looking for dynamic and dedicated educators to join our team! This is an ...

CHADWICK SCHOOL

Outdoor Education Instructor

CA · On-site

$20/hr

Outdoor Education Instructor Grades 7-12 Chadwick School, Palos Verdes Peninsula POSITION OVERVIEW Chadwick Outdoor Education (COE) instructors facilitate outdoor experiences for students, helping ...

Montclair YMCA

Outdoor Education Specialist

Montclair, NJ · On-site

$17 - $18.25/hr

Design and implement outdoor education curriculum tailored to different age groups and abilities, incorporating environmental education and life skills development. * Must lead outdoor activities ...

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Outdoor Education information

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$230

$698

$1.5K

How much do outdoor education jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for outdoor education in the United States is $698.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $432.69 and $798.08 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an outdoor educator make?

The average outdoor educator salary ranges from $25,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the organization. Entry-level positions typically start around $20,000 to $30,000, while experienced educators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in outdoor or adventure-based programs.

What are some common challenges faced by outdoor education instructors, and how can they be managed on the job?

Outdoor education instructors often face challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying student abilities, and maintaining safety in remote environments. Managing these challenges requires strong planning skills, adaptability, and clear communication with both students and team members. Instructors should be prepared with contingency plans, continually assess risk, and foster a supportive environment that encourages teamwork and resilience among participants. Regular training in first aid and outdoor survival skills is also essential for effective risk management.

What Are Careers in Outdoor Education?

Several opportunities exist for a career in outdoor education. You may find employment at a local nature center or park as an outdoor education instructor. In this position, you work with the area’s schools and daycares to provide environmental adventures with a teaching theme for students. You may also lead workshops to meet educational requirements deemed by the state standards. The work is typically seasonal to coincide with the school year. Responsibilities vary with the intended audience and the workplace. If you work at a public site, your duties involve leading activities with groups of all ages. The job is either part-time or full-time with evening and weekend hours commonplace. There is occasional travel for special excursions and learning opportunities.

What jobs can a teacher do outside of education?

A teacher can pursue roles such as outdoor guide, camp counselor, environmental educator, or recreation coordinator, which often require strong communication, leadership, and outdoor skills. These jobs typically involve working with groups in outdoor settings and may require certifications like CPR or first aid. They offer opportunities to apply teaching skills in non-traditional environments and often follow seasonal or flexible schedules.

What is outdoor education?

Outdoor education is a learning process that takes place in natural environments, where students engage in activities like hiking, camping, environmental studies, and team-building exercises. It aims to foster personal growth, environmental awareness, and practical skills by immersing participants in hands-on experiences outside the traditional classroom. Outdoor education can be part of school curricula, extracurricular programs, or specialized camps, and is beneficial for all age groups. It emphasizes experiential learning, leadership, and a deeper connection to nature.

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

AspectOutdoor EducationOutdoor Recreation Instructor
CredentialsCertifications in outdoor leadership, teaching, or environmental educationCertifications in outdoor skills, safety, and sometimes first aid
Work EnvironmentSchools, camps, environmental centers, educational programsAdventure parks, outdoor activity centers, guided tours
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, non-profits, government agenciesPrivate companies, adventure tourism, recreation centers

Outdoor Education focuses on teaching environmental awareness, leadership, and educational programs, often in formal settings. Outdoor Recreation Instructors primarily lead outdoor activities and adventures, emphasizing skill development and safety. While both roles involve outdoor settings and certifications, their core objectives differ: education versus recreation.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In outdoor education, high-paying roles such as outdoor adventure guides, wilderness instructors, or specialized camp directors can sometimes reach weekly earnings of $4,000, especially with experience, certifications, and seasonal work. These positions often require strong outdoor skills, certifications like CPR and first aid, and the ability to work long or irregular hours.

What can you do with a degree in outdoor education?

A degree in outdoor education prepares individuals for careers such as outdoor instructor, camp director, adventure guide, or environmental educator. These roles involve leading outdoor activities, teaching safety and environmental awareness, and often require certifications like CPR and first aid. The field emphasizes skills in leadership, communication, and environmental stewardship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Outdoor Education, and why are they important?

To thrive in Outdoor Education, you need expertise in environmental science, outdoor leadership, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like Wilderness First Aid. Familiarity with GPS navigation, outdoor equipment, and risk management systems is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and group facilitation skills help educators engage participants and manage dynamic outdoor settings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring participant safety, effective learning, and successful program delivery in unpredictable environments.
More about Outdoor Education jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Education jobs? Cities with the most 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 Outdoor Education jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Education jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Education jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Education jobs are:
Outdoor Education jobs near you

Outdoor Education Instructor

Outdoor Classroom

Freedom, NH • On-site

$615/wk

Temporary

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description


Outdoor Education Instructor

Are you passionate about the environment, teaching, and being in nature? Outdoor Classroom is looking for dynamic and dedicated educators to join our team! This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who love the outdoors, enjoy working with children, and are considering a career in education, recreation, or conservation. 


Who we are

As the largest outdoor and environmental education program in the northeastern US, we focus on place-based education with an emphasis on science, nature, and social-emotional learning. We facilitate exciting outdoor learning experiences for elementary and middle school students who visit us for overnight field trips. Each spring and fall, we host hundreds of schools at our seven beautiful sites located across New England.


A day in the life

As an Outdoor Education Instructor, you will have the joy of being welcomed each morning by eager 4th to 8th graders ready for a day of outdoor exploration and learning. Your main responsibility will be leading groups of 12-14 students through their day and evening activities. Our lessons are hands-on and aim to foster critical thinking while uncovering the connections between the natural and human-made world. Favorite staff-led activities include team-building exercises (low ropes), aquatic biology, wood carving, outdoor cooking, and night hikes. You can check out our full list of activity options by clicking this link! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dI7MLfwGXnANBACDZU3bWGYCn3J7P3L9nAQZO0bZsjk/edit

*No prior experience in teaching these classes? Don't worry! We start the fall season with 1.5 weeks of paid staff training


As put by a former staff member 

"I’m encouraged to use my unique skills and interests in my teaching. I work alongside instructors who are just as passionate as I am, and it’s so rewarding to have a positive and educational impact on so many students every week. The beautiful locations, amazing leadership, and plain old fun have kept me coming back season after season.”       

- Shelby F., Fall ’21-Spring ’25


Our locations

Freedom, NH; Ocean Park, ME; Yarmouth Port, MA; Groton, MA; Great Barrington, MA; Ivoryton, CT; and Lakeside, CT


Work schedule

Instructors work from Monday to Friday. The season starts with 1.5 weeks of paid staff training. End dates vary slightly by location. Staff training starts August 31 and the season ends either in late October or mid-November.


Qualifications

Successful candidates will have a strong desire to work outdoors and enjoy working with elementary and middle school students. A positive attitude and the ability to work effectively in a team are highly valued. Given the nature of the role, you should be comfortable walking 3 to 5 miles per day with students and working long days (breakfast through evening programs, with some breaks during the day). A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required. 


Salary, housing, and meals

Outdoor Education Instructors earn $615 per week. We provide shared accommodations for the season. Meals are provided by the dining hall when schools are on-site. Food on weekends is supplemented through a stipend for the whole staff team. As housing is shared, please note that pets and ESAs are not allowed.


How to apply

If interested, we encourage you to apply!  If your resume doesn't show experience working with children, please include a cover letter detailing your interest in the position.


To apply, please use our online application:

https://jobs.gusto.com/postings/outdoor-classroom-outdoor-education-instructor-ee412d45-87b4-4df2-8cdb-2f8d6fedacc0