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Rock-N-Water

Outdoor Education Cabin Leader

Crestline, CA · On-site

$150/day

Outdoor Education Cabin Leader Looking to fill 12 positions Check out who we are! The Cabin Leader's primary role is to supervise a group of students, as well as guide hikes, sleep in the cabin, lead ...

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$698

$1.5K

How much do outdoor education jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Outdoor Education jobs?

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What states have the most Outdoor Education jobs?

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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
Infographic showing various Outdoor Education job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,325 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Outdoor Education Instructor

Greater Green Bay YMCA

Suring, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead participant groups in outdoor education programming using structured lessons and group management strategies.

  • Develop, implement, and teach experiential outdoor curriculum to enhance students' skills, confidence, and environmental awareness.

  • Maintain program areas, facilities, and equipment to ensure a safe, functional, and welcoming learning environment.

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the general supervision of the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator, the Outdoor Education Instructor delivers school-based educational programs at YMCA Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya by facilitating experiential learning opportunities that promote environmental understanding, personal growth, and positive group experiences.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Lead assigned participant groups in outdoor education programming by using structured lessons, positive engagement strategies, and clear expectations to ensure a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experience.

  1. Develop, implement, and teach experiential curriculum by preparing hands-on outdoor lessons (e.g., canoeing, team-building, outdoor living skills, orienteering, cross-country skiing, predator/prey games) to strengthen students' skills, confidence, and environmental awareness.

  1. Facilitate group activities such as campfires, capture-the-flag, night hikes, and saunas by using effective group management and safety practices to create memorable, community-building experiences.

  1. Maintain program areas, facilities, and equipment by performing routine upkeep, cleanliness, and safety checks to ensure a functional and welcoming learning environment.

  1. Teach environmental education concepts using age-appropriate methods to increase students' understanding of the natural world and
  2. their personal responsibility in caring for it.

  1. Build positive relationships with school chaperones, teachers, and participants by communicating clearly and professionally to ensure a collaborative and supportive program environment.

  1. Identify and mitigate safety risks by conducting regular hazard assessments and responding promptly to concerns to prevent accidents and ensure participant well-being.

  1. Assist the Outdoor Education & Retreats Coordinator in hosting groups by conducting orientations, facilitating welcome and recap meetings, and maintaining open communication to ensure a smooth and positive camp experience.

  1. Provide a safe learning experience by following established lesson plans, risk-management procedures, and group management strategies to maintain participant safety and program quality.

  1. Promote respectful behavior by modeling and teaching care for nature, personal property, equipment, facilities, peers, and adults to support a positive and responsible community culture.

  1. Manage program equipment, supplies, and teaching aids by conducting inventory, identifying repairs or replacement needs, and submitting requests to the Outdoor Education and Retreats Coordinator to ensure program readiness.

  1. Support evening and weekend program operations by assisting with group hosting and participating in special events (e.g., Ski Sale, Open Houses) to contribute to overall camp success (2-3 per season).

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Perform all other duties as assigned.

  1. Follow all YMCA abuse prevention and risk management policies, including required trainings, mandated reporting, and monitoring of high-risk areas.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Demonstrated youth leadership experience; strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills; and a cooperative, team-focused attitude.

  1. Bachelor's degree in Outdoor Recreation, Environmental Studies, Education, or related field preferred.

  1. Desire and ability to work with school-age students and respond to their developmental needs.

  1. Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions year-round.

  1. CPR and First Aid certification required within 60 days of employment. Lifeguard certification preferred (training available).

  1. Ability to lift up to 30 pounds. Ability to participate in physical activities including hiking, canoeing, and active games.

  1. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.

  1. Strong in-person communication skills that adapt to diverse audiences.

COMPETENCIES:
  1. Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results. Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility. Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.

  1. Youth Development: Understands the physical, emotional, and social needs of children and teens; fosters independence, confidence, and positive relationships.

  1. Relationship Building: Develops genuine, supportive relationships with campers, peers, and staff while promoting inclusion and respect for all individuals.

  1. Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates responsibility, patience, and professionalism; manages challenging situations calmly and effectively.

  1. Communication: Clearly and respectfully communicates with campers, parents, and staff; listens actively and adapts to different audiences and age groups.

  1. Inclusion & Cultural Competence: Creates a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, equity, and belonging among campers and staff.

  1. Teamwork & Collaboration: Works cooperatively with others to achieve camp goals and support a positive, mission-driven culture.

  1. Adaptability & Initiative: Adjusts quickly to changing situations, weather, or schedules; takes initiative to solve problems and contribute to camp operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  1. Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions.

  1. Frequent movement around camp to assist coworkers and support program activities.

  1. Ability to walk throughout camp facilities, operate necessary equipment, and assist with light cleaning.

  1. As a safety responder, must be able to crouch, stoop, kneel, move quickly, and lift at least 30 pounds.

  1. The Outdoor Education program is predominantly residential, with most groups attending three-day, two-night sessions (Monday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Friday).

  1. Programming operates in three main seasons: Fall (September-November), Winter (January-March), and Spring (April-June).

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

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