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Outdoor Educator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Venture Outdoors

Outdoor Educator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Outdoor Educator Reports to: Program Manager Location: Pittsburgh, PA Hours: Part-Time (Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM Up to 20 hours per week) Salary: $18/hour Inspire. Educate. Equip. We remove ...

YMCA of Greater Dayton

Outdoor Educator

Oregonia, OH · On-site

$11 - $14/hr

Outdoor Educator Camp Kern Oregonia, OH Full-time/Non-Exempt $11.00-14.00/Hourly Plus Overtime *40+ hours each week. Overtime is paid at time and a half. Team members can expect to work weekends and ...

YMCA of Greater Dayton

Outdoor Educator

Oregonia, OH

Outdoor Educator Camp Kern Oregonia, OH Full-time/Non-Exempt $11.00-14.00/Hourly Plus Overtime *40+ hours each week. Overtime is paid at time and a half. Team members can expect to work weekends and ...

YMCA of Greater Dayton

Outdoor Educator

Oregonia, OH

$11 - $14/hr

Outdoor Educator Camp Kern Oregonia, OH Full-time/Non-Exempt $11.00-14.00/Hourly Plus Overtime *40+ hours each week. Overtime is paid at time and a half. Team members can expect to work weekends and ...

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Outdoor Educator information

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$10

$22

$40

How much do outdoor educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor educator in the United States is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outdoor Educator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Educator, you need a solid grounding in environmental science, outdoor leadership, and experiential education, often supported by certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with GPS devices, outdoor navigation tools, and risk management systems is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and group facilitation skills make someone stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring participant safety, delivering impactful learning experiences, and fostering respect for the natural environment.

What are outdoor educators?

Outdoor educators are professionals who teach people of all ages about nature, environmental stewardship, and outdoor skills through hands-on experiences. They often lead activities such as hiking, camping, team-building exercises, and environmental science lessons in natural settings. Outdoor educators work in schools, camps, nature centers, and nonprofit organizations, helping participants build confidence, learn about the environment, and develop leadership skills. Their goal is to foster a deeper connection to the outdoors and promote lifelong appreciation for nature.

What is the difference between Outdoor Educator vs Camp Counselor?

AspectOutdoor EducatorCamp Counselor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Outdoor LeadershipCPR, First Aid, Child Development
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, educational programs, nature-based activitiesSummer camps, recreational facilities, youth programs
Employer & IndustrySchools, outdoor education centers, nature programsSummer camps, recreational organizations

Both roles involve working with youth in outdoor settings, but Outdoor Educators focus on teaching environmental and outdoor skills, while Camp Counselors primarily supervise and entertain children during camp activities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How do Outdoor Educators typically collaborate with other staff and community partners during programs?

Outdoor Educators frequently work closely with co-instructors, program coordinators, and local organizations to deliver engaging and safe learning experiences. Collaboration often involves jointly planning activities, ensuring risk management protocols are followed, and adapting programming to meet group needs. Effective communication is essential, as educators must coordinate schedules, share responsibilities in the field, and sometimes partner with park rangers or school staff to enhance the educational impact. This teamwork not only supports participant safety and learning but also fosters a supportive environment for professional growth.
More about Outdoor Educator jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Educator jobs? Cities with the most Outdoor Educator job openings:
What states have the most Outdoor Educator jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Educator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Educator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Educator jobs are:
Outdoor Educator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Educator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,628 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Outdoor Educator

Kanuga Conferences, Inc.

Hendersonville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Kanuga Conferences, Inc
Position: Outdoor Educator
This is a full-time, seasonal position classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). On-site living is required, with housing and meals provided as part of the role.
Availability
Candidates must be available to work during one of the following seasons:
Spring: February-May
Summer: June-August
Fall: September-November
About Kanuga
Kanuga, an independent non-profit organization established in 1928, is a 1,400-acre retreat and learning center nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. With a deep commitment to outdoor stewardship, Kanuga offers year-round programs that connect people with nature, foster personal growth, and build a sense of community. While historically affiliated with The Episcopal Church, Kanuga welcomes a diverse audience-including schools, nonprofits, and businesses-through its retreat center, summer camps, and environmental education initiatives
Position Overview
Outdoor education is central to Kanuga's mission. Leveraging the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem, Kanuga engages thousands annually in environmental experiences that inspire a deeper connection to the natural world. Kanuga's Outdoor Educators play a vital role in delivering high-quality outdoor education and supporting all outdoor initiatives, including programs offered through the Mountain Trail Outdoor School (MTOS).
Responsibilities
Outdoor Educators are responsible for:
  • Demonstrating enthusiasm for environmental education and team building for young people and adults.
  • Establishing positive connections with learners of all ages, as well as chaperones and teachers.
  • Adapt customizable lesson plans based on their teaching style, learners' age, and Kanuga's curriculum.
  • Fostering an inclusive learning environment.
  • Identifying and responding to the states and needs of learners
  • Participating in and contributing to Kanuga's professional community of educators.
  • Conducting 6-8 three-hour teaching blocks each week for MTOS groups.
  • Leading 2-3 evening programs each week for MTOS groups.
  • Skillfully delivering Kanuga's experiential education curriculum.
  • Attending all school and group orientations.

Desired Qualifications
  • Willingness to work outdoors and contribute to a welcoming, supportive team.
  • Knowledge of the natural world and outdoor adventure
  • Experience working with children and youth
  • Maturity, initiative, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a team-oriented attitude.
  • Desire to grow as an individual and as an educator.
  • Professionalism in appearance and conduct.
  • Bachelor's Degree, preferably in a related field.
  • First Aid certifications such as CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguarding are beneficial.

Degree of Physical Activity Required
The Outdoor Educator position involves a high degree of physical activity, including:
  • Frequent lifting, bending, and carrying of tools, equipment, and supplies (up to 50 lbs).
  • Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions, including sun, rain, heat, and cold.
  • Regular belaying duties during climbing activities.
  • Standing, walking, kneeling, and bending for extended periods while leading or assisting with programs.
  • Hiking up to 3 miles while leading a group and carrying a backpack with necessary supplies.

Additional Position Details
  • On-Site Housing: Includes private bedrooms, shared bathrooms, kitchen access, laundry facilities, porches, and access to 12 miles of hiking trails and 1,400 acres of natural woodlands and lakes.
  • On-Call Duty: Educators living on-site are required to serve as on-call staff as assigned.
  • Training: Educators receive a paid three-week training program focusing on teaching Kanuga and MTOS's experiential outdoor education curriculum, with an emphasis on social and emotional learning and resiliency.

Join our team and help connect people with nature while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards!

Apply