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Outdoor Education Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Clear Channel Outdoor

Social Media Manager

New York, NY · Hybrid

$72K/yr

Clear Channel Outdoor Job Summary: The Manager, Social Media is responsible for setting the ... Other duties as assigned Job Qualifications Education: * BS/BA required; advanced degree a plus or ...

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Outdoor Education information

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 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 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.

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 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.

More about Outdoor Education jobs

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For Outdoor Education jobs in Ridgewood, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Education jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Education jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Outdoor Education jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Outdoor Education job openings:

Outdoor Education jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Education job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Sharpe Reservation Per Diem Instructor

The Fresh Air Fund

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Per Diem Outdoor Instructor

Since its founding in 1877, The Fresh Air Fund, a not-for-profit youth development organization, has provided free life-changing summer experiences in the outdoors to more than 1.8 million children from New York City's underserved communities. Young people also participate in year-round leadership, career exploration and educational programs.

The Fresh Air Fund is hiring Per Diem Outdoor Instructors to work in our Environmental Center at Sharpe Reservation in Fishkill, NY. This is an on-call, part-time, per diem position that is scheduled to work on an "as required" and "as available" basis, with flexible work opportunities available throughout the year. Per Diem Instructors facilitate outdoor and environmental education lessons ranging from pond ecology to team building. The ideal candidate is curious, personable and hard-working with previous experience working with children.

Per Diem Instructors may be scheduled to work at Sharpe Reservation in Fishkill, NY, Harriman State Park or at schools that request onsite programming. This is an in-person position that reports to the Program Coordinator.

Responsibilities
  • Plan and facilitate Environmental and Outdoor Education lessons from the Sharpe Curriculum.
  • Facilitate group dynamics and team building sessions.
  • Ensure program supplies are kept in order and good condition.
  • Manage all aspects of group safety.
  • Maintain a general understanding of Sharpe Reservation trails, roadways, and facilities.
  • Occasional driving of camp vehicles (golf carts, and 7 and 15 passenger vans) as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Previous teaching, outdoor education or summer camp experience required.
  • Associates degree required or currently enrolled in college. Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Must be in good general health, able to hike, lift, and spend long periods of time outdoors.
  • Must have the ability to be flexible and adjust to changes quickly.
  • Comfortable and confident supervising and teaching participants in large and small groups.
  • Must have the ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Handle concerns/issues in a constructive manner.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Proficient with basic computer skills.
  • Driver's license preferred.
  • Interest in joining a youth development organization and supporting its mission and vision.

The Fresh Air Fund requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including eligible booster doses, or to apply for a reasonable accommodation.

Employment period: This is a flexible, on-call, per diem job. Working hours are dependent on school/user group schedules.

Hours per week: Hours per week vary on an as needed basis with a maximum of 40 hours per week.

Compensation: Salaries range from $18/hour - $26/hour, commensurate with experience.

Benefits: None.

To apply, please submit a Sharpe Reservation Per Diem Instructor application. We are hiring on a rolling basis and encourage interested applicants to apply as early as possible. No calls or recruiters, please.

The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring, and dedicated to diversity in its work and on its staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations and communities to apply.

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