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Outdoor Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miamioh

Outdoor Instructor Non Student

Center, TX · On-site

Job Title Outdoor Instructor Non Student Department Outdoor Pursuit Center JM Worker Type Temporary (Fixed Term) Pay Type Period Activity Pay Benefit Eligible No Summary Responsibilities are to ...

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 ...

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Outdoor Instructor information

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$23

$44

How much do outdoor instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be an outdoor instructor?

To become an outdoor instructor, candidates typically need relevant certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR, along with experience in outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, or kayaking. Many employers also require a background check and good communication skills, with some positions favoring formal training or certifications in specific activities or safety procedures.

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

To thrive as an Outdoor Instructor, you need expertise in outdoor activities, risk management, safety procedures, and typically hold relevant certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or instructor qualifications in specific activities (e.g., climbing, kayaking). Familiarity with equipment like harnesses, GPS devices, and communication tools is essential, alongside adherence to local and national safety standards. Outstanding leadership, adaptability, and strong communication enhance your ability to instruct and inspire diverse groups. These skills ensure participant safety, effective learning, and positive outdoor experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by outdoor instructors and how can they be addressed?

Outdoor Instructors often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying group skill levels, and ensuring participant safety in dynamic environments. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong risk assessment skills, adaptability, and clear communication with participants and co-instructors. Building a supportive team culture and preparing contingency plans can also help instructors manage unexpected situations while maintaining a positive and educational experience for everyone involved.

What is an outdoor instructor?

Outdoor instructors are professionals who lead, teach, and supervise individuals or groups in outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, canoeing, or camping. They are responsible for ensuring safety, teaching technical skills, and fostering teamwork and respect for the natural environment. Outdoor instructors often work with schools, adventure companies, or youth organizations, adapting activities to suit participants’ abilities and goals. Their role requires both technical expertise and strong communication skills.

What is the difference between Outdoor Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectOutdoor InstructorCamp Counselor
Required CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, child supervision certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, adventure parks, wilderness areasSummer camps, recreational facilities
Employer & IndustryOutdoor education providers, adventure companiesSummer camps, youth organizations

Both roles involve working with children or groups outdoors, but Outdoor Instructors focus on teaching outdoor skills and activities, often requiring specific certifications and working in adventure or wilderness settings. Camp Counselors primarily supervise children at summer camps, emphasizing supervision and recreational activities. While overlapping in outdoor work, their certifications and work environments differ slightly, catering to distinct aspects of outdoor education and youth recreation.

More about Outdoor Instructor jobs
What states have the most Outdoor Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Instructor jobs are:
Outdoor Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Community Schools Outdoor Instructor/Adventure Guide

Catalina Foothills School District

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$136 - $228/day

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Community Schools/CARE/Outdoor Instructor/Adventure Guide
Date Posted:
8/26/2025
Location:
Multiple schools
Date Available:
ONGOING
Closing Date:
ONGOING
Community Schools Outdoor Instructor/Adventure Guide- **HIRING IS ONGOING**
This is a short-term contracted position. Employees will be hired on a "per trip" basis.
Schedule: Very seasonal; work takes place on school half-days, holiday breaks, various days off from school, and potentially weekly in June & July for summer camp.
Hours: Vary based on trips and programs. May include multiple overnight stays in the outdoors.
Pay Rate: Stipend provided per trip (rate varies based on trip length, duties, and experience).$136 - $228 per day, based on education and qualifications.
Locations: Based in Catalina Foothills School District, with travel to outdoor destinations across Arizona and beyond.
Position Details:
The CFSD Community Schools Outdoor Adventure Program is seeking enthusiastic, safety-focused Outdoor Instructors/Adventure Guides to join our team! This role is perfect for someone who loves working with kids, thrives in the outdoors, and can work a flexible schedule during non-traditional times.
Application Requirements:
Complete the CFSD application and include your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your outdoor leadership experience, work with youth, and availability.
Special Requirements:
  • Must be 21 years or older.
  • Must have a valid Drivers License, clean driving record, and be comfortable transporting students.
  • Comfortable spending multiple days away from home for overnight trips.
  • Flexible schedule to accommodate changing trip needs.
  • Formal guide training and/or outdoor certifications (e.g., Wilderness First Aid, CPR, NOLS, Interpretive Guide Certification, Outward Bound Instructor, Leave No Trace Trainer) preferred.
  • Experience or background in the sciences and a willingness to learn about the areas where we operate.
  • Experience working with kids in outdoor settings.
  • K 12 educational or recreational experience supervising students preferred.
  • Positive attitude, strong teamwork skills, and a love for adventure.
  • This position requires the ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • This position requires the ability to hike with at least a 25 lb. pack for extended durations across varied terrain and elevations.
  • Physically and mentally prepared to guide students in diverse outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, and inclement weather.
  • Must have or be able to obtain an Arizona IVP Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card in accordance with school district policy and pass a background check.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead and supervise students on outdoor day trips and overnight adventures.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
  • Facilitate educational lessons and recreational activities in natural settings.
  • Drive district vehicles to trip destinations.
  • Collaborate with other guides and staff to prepare programs and deliver fun, memorable experiences.

Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Policy
In CFSD, we value a workforce that reflects the diversity of our students. We are committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex (which includes a prohibition against sexual harassment as described in District policy ACA-Sexual Harassment), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, religion, or disability.

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