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Outdoor Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Prior outdoor leadership experience welcomed but not required. Applicants should possess a desire to learn new skills, develop youth facilitation/leadership abilities, and interact with youth in ...

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Outdoor Leader information

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How much do outdoor leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 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 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 are outdoor leaders?

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Outdoor Adventures Youth Worker

Outdoor Adventures Youth Worker

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Outdoor Adventures Youth Worker

The Department of Campus Recreation is seeking to fill the position of Outdoor Adventures Youth Worker. This entry level position is responsible for facilitating high quality outdoor/adventure experiences for youth.

Primary responsibilities include providing excellent customer service, facilitating a positive culture of risk management, and assisting with daily operations involving youth programs. These responsibilities may be conducted in a variety of environments and roles including group-based teambuilding (indoor & outdoor), Stone Valley Recreation Area (boat rentals, outdoor climbing structures, facility rentals, general recreation), and other outdoor adventure activities. This position may include driving University vehicles and trailers.

Prior outdoor leadership experience welcomed but not required. Applicants should possess a desire to learn new skills, develop youth facilitation/leadership abilities, and interact with youth in dynamic and challenging settings. All Youth Workers will receive training in general facilitation, customer service, risk management skills, and youth-specific considerations. Additional site and/or role specific training is available to create opportunities for professional development and advancement (see Outdoor Adventures Lead Facilitator and Supervisor positions).

Youth Workers should expect to work and 2-3 programs per semester (potentially more during summer months). Programs and facility coverage may include overnight shifts. Work hours are variable and programs will be scheduled typically 2-4 weeks in advance. Must attend mandatory staff development workshops and trainings as offered.

This job requires the following 3 publicly available clearances:
PA State Police Criminal Background Check
PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
FBI Criminal Background Check.

This job requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid US driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks

Campus Recreation is a department within Student Affairs that provides fitness, wellness, and recreational programs to the campus community through the operation and administration of the new expanded and renovated 200,000 of Intramural Building, the McCoy Natatorium, the 700-acre Stone Valley Outdoor Recreation Area, a Tennis Center including six clay courts and four indoor courts, the White Building, Outdoor Adventures, Aquatics, Club Sports, Fitness and Wellness Programs, and Intramural Sports.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

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Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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