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Outdoor Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Venture Outdoors

Outdoor Educator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$18/hr

An Outdoor Educator leads on-site lessons and activities with groups, such as hiking, flat water paddling, biking, geocaching, STEM experiments, teambuilding activities, fishing, and more. Must be ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$20/hr

Completion of the Outdoor Leadership Training Course (OLTC) or equivalent outdoor leadership training. * Possess (and maintain) valid Wilderness First Aid (WFA) & CPR/AED certification or higher

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Adventures Guide

Jasper, AR

Previous experience as a guide, instructor, or outdoor leader preferred. * Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. * Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification preferred. * Knowledge of local ...

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Adventures Guide

Jasper, AR

Previous experience as a guide, instructor, or outdoor leader preferred. * Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. * Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification preferred. * Knowledge of local ...

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 ...

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Adventures Guide

Jasper, AR · On-site

Previous experience as a guide, instructor, or outdoor leader preferred. * Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. * Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification preferred. * Knowledge of local ...

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Adventures Guide

Jasper, AR · On-site

Previous experience as a guide, instructor, or outdoor leader preferred. * Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. * Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification preferred. * Knowledge of local ...

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Adventures Guide

Jasper, AR

Previous experience as a guide, instructor, or outdoor leader preferred. * Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. * Wilderness First Aid or CPR certification preferred. * Knowledge of local ...

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Outdoor Leader information

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$10

$25

$72

How much do outdoor leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor leader in the United States is $25.73, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor leader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Leader, you need expertise in outdoor activities, risk management, and group facilitation, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with navigation tools (GPS, compasses, maps) and safety equipment is crucial for effective trip planning and emergency response. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help build trust, motivate groups, and handle unexpected challenges. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and personal growth of participants in diverse and sometimes unpredictable outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges outdoor leaders face when managing group dynamics during expeditions?

Outdoor Leaders often encounter challenges related to group dynamics, such as balancing varying skill levels, managing interpersonal conflicts, and maintaining group morale in unpredictable conditions. Effective leaders use clear communication, adaptability, and conflict resolution techniques to foster teamwork and ensure safety. They also keep a close eye on individual participant needs while guiding the group toward shared goals, making flexibility and empathy essential qualities in this role.

What can I do with an outdoor leader degree?

An outdoor leader degree prepares individuals for roles such as outdoor guides, camp directors, adventure instructors, and outdoor education specialists. These positions often involve leading activities like hiking, kayaking, or team-building exercises, and may require certifications in first aid or wilderness safety. The degree provides skills in leadership, risk management, and environmental education applicable in outdoor recreation settings.

What is the difference between Outdoor Leader vs Outdoor Instructor?

AspectOutdoor LeaderOutdoor Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, outdoor leadership certificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, outdoor activity-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentLeading groups in outdoor settings, planning trips, managing safetyTeaching outdoor skills, instructing participants in activities like rock climbing or kayaking
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, camps, schoolsOutdoor education centers, adventure programs, camps

While both roles involve outdoor activities and safety, an Outdoor Leader primarily manages group trips and ensures safety, whereas an Outdoor Instructor focuses on teaching specific outdoor skills and techniques. Both roles require similar certifications and are common in outdoor education and adventure industries.

What is an outdoor leader?

Outdoor leaders are individuals who guide and manage groups during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, or adventure trips. They are responsible for ensuring the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of participants while teaching skills related to outdoor recreation. Outdoor leaders often plan routes, assess risks, provide instruction on equipment and techniques, and foster teamwork and environmental stewardship among group members.
More about Outdoor Leader jobs
What states have the most Outdoor Leader jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Leader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Leader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Leader jobs are:
Outdoor Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Outdoor After School Program Assistant I

Montrose Recreation District

Montrose, CO • On-site

$15.90 - $17.44/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Free Membership to the Community Rec Center after 30 days of hire.
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Flexible schedule

Position Summary 
This position is responsible for leading and assisting enrichment activities including academic assistance, and a focus on outdoor themed arts and crafts, group games, outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, biking, and others. The Program Assistant 1 supports the planning and delivery of engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate outdoor activities for youth in the after school program. This position works under the supervision of the Outdoor Leader and the Enrichment and Outdoors Coordinator to lead and assist with daily programs such as hiking, nature exploration, team-building games, and environmental education. The Program Assistant 1 helps create a positive and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, teamwork skills, and a connection to the outdoors.
Key responsibilities include supervising and engaging with youth during activities, assisting with setup and cleanup, maintaining safety and behavior standards, and supporting communication with families and staff. The ideal candidate enjoys working with children in an outdoor setting, demonstrates strong teamwork and communication skills, and models enthusiasm for learning and exploration in nature. In general, the Outdoor Program Assistant 1 should enjoy working and playing outside, introducing new activities and skills to program participants, and fostering an appreciation for outdoor activities among youth participants.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following are examples of primary duties assigned to this position. Other related duties may be assigned.
  • Leads and assists students to safely and actively participate in a wide variety of enrichment and outdoor activities
  • Exercise authority in problematic situations with children; utilizing guidance and disciplinary procedures as directed by the Site Leader.
  • Promote academic success, good character, citizenship, healthy lifestyles, outdoor activity, and outdoor safety
  • May be trained to perform additional job duties on different days for special events.
  • Plans and facilitates activities for program participants.
  • Participates in staff meetings and training as needed or required.
Position Qualifications 
        Experience: 
  • 16 years of age or older
  • Time spent leading or participating in outdoor activities, preferred
  • One (1) year of experience in elementary education or childcare setting, preferred.
      Certifications:
  • The possession of or ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Certification.
Physical Demands and Work Environment 
  • The Outdoor After School Enrichment Program is housed at Montrose County School District’s Outer Range School and will utilize local park and outdoor areas.
  • Program hours are from 3 pm-6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday.
  • Primary functions may require maintaining the physical condition necessary for walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods. This position will require moderate lifting, and heavy lifting on occasion, and working indoors and in outdoor weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and wind. 
Benefits
  • Free Membership to the Community Rec Center after 30 days of hire.