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Outdoor Instructor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Loudoun County Government

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $31/hr

... Outdoor Pool, Lovettsville, VA (Summer Only) Franklin Park-Outdoor Pool, Purcellville, VA (Summer Only) As a Swim Instructor, you will provide fun and family-friendly learning experiences and ...

Loudoun County Government

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Franklin Park-Outdoor Pool, Purcellville, VA (Summer Only) As a Swim Instructor, you will provide fun and family-friendly learning experiences and encourage our patrons to explore the water in a ...

Loudoun County Government

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $31/hr

... Outdoor Pool, Lovettsville, VA (Summer Only) • Franklin Park-Outdoor Pool, Purcellville, VA (Summer Only) As a Swim Instructor, you will provide fun and family-friendly learning experiences and ...

Greenbelt, MD

Art Instructor

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Most classes occur in the Greenbelt Community Center, but may occur in other city facilities, outdoors, online or in other locations as coordinated by city staff. The Art Instructor also works ...

IDS International

FABOLC - TAFT Instructor

Arlington, VA · On-site

Must have served as an Instructor at the Schoolhouse * Prior Staff Sergeant (E6 or Higher) * Must ... Able to stand for extended periods of time and work outdoors in all weather conditions. * Must be ...

Arch Amenities Group

Aquatics Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Job Title: Aquatics Instructor Department: Amenity Managements/Operations Reports to: General ... outdoors, heat, cool. X DISCLAIMER The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of ...

New

Career Site

Aquatics Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Job Title: Aquatics Instructor Department: Amenity Managements/Operations Reports to: General ... outdoors, heat, cool. X DISCLAIMER The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of ...

New

Arch Amenities Group

Aquatics Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Job Title: Aquatics Instructor Department: Amenity Managements/Operations Reports to: General ... outdoors, heat, cool. X DISCLAIMER The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of ...

New

Arch Amenities Group

Yoga Instructor

Kingstowne, VA · On-site

Yoga Instructor Department: Fitness Reports to: Fitness Director Job Type: Non-Exempt Arch ... outdoors, heat, cool. X DISCLAIMER The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of ...

Career Site

Yoga Instructor

Kingstowne, VA · On-site

Yoga Instructor Department: Fitness Reports to: Fitness Director Job Type: Non-Exempt Arch ... outdoors, heat, cool. X DISCLAIMER The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of ...

Prince William County, VA

Science in the Park Instructor

VA · On-site

$16.66 - $35.39/hr

Science in the Park Instructors lead grade specific science lessons for students K-6. Lessons are held primarily outdoors at 3 Prince William County Parks: Locust Shade and Lake Ridge Parks on the ...

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All JobsOutdoor Instructor JobsOutdoor Instructor Jobs in Washington

Outdoor Instructor information

See Washington salary details

$14

$26

$50

How much do outdoor instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor instructor in Washington is $26.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.21 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.

What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Instructor jobs in Washington? For Outdoor Instructor jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Instructor jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Instructor jobs in Washington are:
Outdoor Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Instructor job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,661 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Seasonal Outdoor Program Instructor

ENDLESS HORIZONS

Clifton, VA • On-site

$105/day

Part-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Love the outdoors?! Make it your job at Horizons at Hemlock! We are now hiring for Fall 2026! Fall season runs mid-August through November.


We are looking for curious, caring, and hardworking staff to lead groups through outdoor education, including environmental education, team building, adventure trips, and more. You’ll develop your skills and love of the outdoors while providing unforgettable experiences for students, scouts, and adult groups.

Apply now to join our outdoor education family and let the adventure begin!

Hemlock Program Instructors are responsible for the care and management of groups while delivering high-quality outdoor programming. They are expected to create a positive atmosphere while establishing opportunities for experiential learning and authentic growth for students and clients. Our clients include public and private schools, colleges and universities, scout groups, and specialty retreats. Instructors will also be responsible for the logistics before, during, and after a group stay. This includes preparing program areas and facilities, facilitating meals and transitions, developing programming, cleaning, and general maintenance.

JOB DUTIES AND RESONSIBILITES:

  • Leads activities in team building, environmental classes, evening programming, field games and more; facilitates high and low rope courses; inspects equipment throughout use to ensure it meets safety standards
  • Supports user groups in all aspects; helps user groups establish and achieve goals for their experience
  • Promotes a safe environment where individuals will feel comfortable challenging themselves
  • Recognizes and responds to opportunities for problem solving with the group

EXPERIENCE:

  • 1-year outdoor recreation experience or camp counselor preferred
  • Experience working with children preferred (formally or informally)
  • Must have experience or comfort with outdoor education, recreation activity, and adventure skills (camping, climbing, paddling, hiking, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be 18 and have High School diploma or equivalent (21+ years of age preferred)
  • Must have good driving record and ability to drive a 15-passenger van (training provided)
  • Current First Aid and CPR certifications preferred
  • Successful completion of a criminal background check

PERKS:

  • Paid, high-quality training (training reimbursed upon successful completion)
  • Pay raises for relevant certifications (Lifeguard, WFA, WFR, etc.)
  • Meals provided during training and overnight programs
  • Discounts at related facilities and ProOutdoorLinks.com
  • Returner bonus!

Terms and Compensation:
The fall season at Hemlock Overlook is mid-August through November. Program Instructors should be available for work full days (no half days available), but we can work with your schedule. Only available weekends? Need to work around classes on specific days of the week? Reach out!

Base pay is $105/day, with a $5.00 increment added for each previous season of employment with the OLC or Horizons at Hemlock Overlook, and with each relevant and current national certification.* In the event of program changes, cancellations, or open days during the operating season, Program Instructors may be assigned tasks in facility or equipment maintenance, customer service, hospitality, clerical, or program development.

Training:
All Program Instructors participate in mandatory paid training at the start of each season, with meals provided. Training will be paid as long as the training is completed in its entirety. Training will not be paid if separation of employment happens prior to the end of training.








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