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Outdoor Educator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Capital District YMCA

Chingachgook Outdoor Educators

NY · On-site

$16.32/hr

Under the general direction of the Camp Director and Community Programs Coordinator, the Outdoor Educator runs the assigned programs for Outdoor Education, Adventure, Weekend Retreats, and Family ...

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How much do outdoor educator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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.

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.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,628 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Chingachgook Outdoor Educators

Chingachgook Outdoor Educators

Capital District YMCA

Pilot Knob, NY

$16.32/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

YMCA Camp Chingachgook is part of the Capital District YMCA and offers a variety of positions during the year. We are a community of dynamic outdoor leaders who foster youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Outdoor Education team at YMCA Camp Chingachgook is composed of Senior Educators and Educators, based in spectacular Lake George in the Adirondack Park, NY. Under the general direction of the Camp Director and Community Programs Coordinator, the Outdoor Educator runs the assigned programs for Outdoor Education, Adventure, Weekend Retreats, and Family Programs within the branch. Our Spring season starts May 1st with training and pauses in mid-June as the branch prepares for summer programs. Most students attend schools for day trips, while some programs are overnight, or on weekends. These positions may matriculate into summer and fall employment opportunities.

Training is provided. Housing is an option.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION TEAM POSITIONS - HOURLY RATE

Senior Outdoor Educator $16.32/PER HOUR: Senior Outdoor Educators are responsible for facilitating and providing support to all aspects of Outdoor Education and Group Service programs. Successful applicants must have the following previous experience in outdoor programs; leading youth in an outdoor setting, teaching about the environment, facilitating high and low ropes activities, facilitating team building activities, and more. Senior Outdoor Educators are responsible for the upkeep and management of all curricular-based initiatives, materials, program facilities, and training. Must be comfortable responding to emergencies. This position requires the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple duties. Strong human relations, communication, and logistical skills are essential.

Outdoor Educator $16.00/PER HOUR: Outdoor Educators are responsible for facilitating and providing support to all aspects of Outdoor Education and Group Service programs. Successful applicants should have the following previous experience in outdoor programs; leading youth in an outdoor setting, teaching about the environment, facilitating high and low ropes activities, facilitating team building activities, and more. Must be comfortable responding to emergencies. This position requires the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple duties. Strong human relations, communication, and logistical skills are essential.

Senior Outdoor Educator Requirements:

  • Preferred qualifications include a valid driver’s license, CPR/First Aid, Lifeguard, and Wilderness First Aid.
  • Curricular management and staff training.
  • This position requires the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple duties.
  • Certification trainings will be available.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle weight up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work on feet for the entire work day.
  • Ability to help with other duties as assigned, such as cleaning cabins, program areas, and kitchen duties as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Outdoor Educator- Requirements

  • Preferred qualifications include a valid driver’s license, CPR/First Aid, Lifeguard, and Wilderness First Aid.
  • This position requires the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple duties.
  • Certification trainings will be available.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle weight up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work on feet for the entire work day.
  • Ability to help with other duties as assigned, such as cleaning cabins, program areas, and kitchen duties as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

First Aid and CPR are required certifications for all positions within 30 days of hire and are offered at Camp.