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Outdoor Nature Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Frederick County, MD

Nature Instructor

Frederick, MD · On-site

$16.75/hr

Ability to enthusiastically and effectively lead and supervise groups of children in indoor and outdoor activities * Ability to handle nature center animals, including snakes, amphibians, and insects ...

The Center for Discovery

Outdoor Educator

Harris, NY · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

The Outdoor Educator position provides an exciting opportunity to use nature as one of the most powerful classrooms for learning and growth. We are seeking a creative, energetic, and compassionate ...

Marriott Vacations Worldwide

$30.10/hr

Instruct group fitness classes to the ability of the Owners and guests participating (e.g., aqua aerobics, stretching, mind body, cardio/strength, outdoor nature walks, senior classes and youth ...

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Outdoor Nature information

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How much do outdoor nature jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor nature in the United States is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $19.95 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 understanding of environmental science, outdoor survival skills, and relevant educational or recreation certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with tools like GPS devices, mapping software, and outdoor equipment is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and adaptability help you engage diverse groups and manage challenges in unpredictable outdoor environments. These skills ensure participant safety, effective learning experiences, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in outdoor nature roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in outdoor nature roles often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, physical demands, and navigating remote or rugged terrain. These challenges require adaptability, thorough preparation, and proper safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are also essential, especially when coordinating activities or responding to emergencies. Building resilience and staying up-to-date with best practices in outdoor safety can help manage these challenges and ensure a rewarding career in the field.

What is the difference between Outdoor Nature vs Outdoor Education Specialist?

AspectOutdoor NatureOutdoor Education Specialist
CertificationsNone required, but certifications like First Aid or Wilderness Safety are commonRequired certifications such as First Aid, CPR, and sometimes teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentNatural outdoor settings like parks, forests, and wilderness areasOutdoor settings combined with educational activities, often in parks, camps, or schools
Employer & IndustryNature reserves, parks, outdoor recreation companiesEducational institutions, camps, outdoor programs
Primary FocusExperiencing and appreciating natureTeaching outdoor skills and environmental education

While both roles involve outdoor settings, Outdoor Nature focuses on experiencing and exploring nature, whereas Outdoor Education Specialist emphasizes teaching and guiding others in outdoor environments. The latter typically requires additional certifications and a focus on educational outcomes.

What are outdoor nature jobs?

Outdoor nature jobs are careers that involve working primarily in natural environments, such as forests, parks, mountains, and wildlife reserves. These jobs can include roles like park rangers, conservationists, wildlife biologists, environmental educators, and trail guides. People in these professions are typically responsible for protecting natural resources, conducting research, educating the public, and maintaining trails or habitats. Outdoor nature jobs are ideal for individuals who enjoy spending time outside and are passionate about environmental conservation.
More about Outdoor Nature jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Nature jobs? Cities with the most Outdoor Nature job openings:
What states have the most Outdoor Nature jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Nature jobs include:
Outdoor Nature jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Nature job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,944 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Nature Instructor

Nature Instructor

Frederick County, MD

Frederick, MD • On-site

$16.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary: $16.75 Hourly
Location : Fountain Rock Park - Walkersville, MD
Job Type: Part-Time Non-Benefited
Job Number: FY26-00567
Department: Recreation
Opening Date: 06/03/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
JOB INFORMATION
The Frederick County Division of Parks & Recreation is committed to the highest level of care of our natural and historic resources while making the park facilities and recreational programs available to all. We believe that the benefits of parks & recreation are far reaching and vital to each and every individual, family, and community in Frederick County.
The Recreation Department seeks to enhance the quality of life of county residents by providing innovative activities and programs that meet the recreational needs of Frederick County communities. We encourage participation in a variety of recreational opportunities that foster enjoyment and lifelong learning. http://www.recreater.com/
Non-exempt; part-time year-round position; with the availability for working evenings between the hours of 2 pm to 9 pm and weekends between 9am to 9pm; no benefits
This person will present educational programs and weekend birthday parties to various groups visiting Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center (e.g. families, school groups, scout troops, pre-school groups, garden clubs, etc.). Assigned hours will include weekend/evening hours and events at the Nature Center and visiting local schools for the Nature Travels program. Direction may be given to volunteer staff; supervision is received from the Park Naturalist.
Frederick County Government values the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to Frederick County Government today.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Conduct nature-themed birthday parties as well as hosting the nature center on weekends
  • Present nature education programs and nature craft programs in the evenings and on weekends. Themes may include animals, plant identification, hikes, geology programs and other nature related topics
  • Greet and converse with the public as they visit the nature centers
  • Maintain accurate attendance, daily receipt records, and other facility/program record-keeping
  • Supervise the nature center facilities during program hours; keep the facilities safe, clean, and appealing to the public
  • Report and communicate with Park Naturalist any facility maintenance found necessary
  • Develop natural and historic knowledge of each nature center, in order to effectively respond to inquiries from visitors and others concerning natural features and cultural history in the park area
  • Assist with marketing of nature centers to the public
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
To perform this job successfully, an employee must be able to perform all essential functions satisfactorily. Any employee's position may not be assigned all functions or equipment listed above, and the examples may not cover all functions or equipment that may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential functions.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
The qualifications/requirements, knowledge/skills/abilities and physical requirements or working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job
  • Minimum age 18 years
  • Minimum 6 months (2 summer seasons) work experience related to nature and/or environmental activities/studies - OR - educational background related to teaching and/or environmental studies
  • Current certification in First Aid and CPR (infant/child and adult), or able to become so certified within 60 days of hire (current certifications must be maintained throughout employment)

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:
A successful incumbent operating in this role displays the following:
  • Ability to enthusiastically and effectively lead and supervise groups of children in indoor and outdoor activities
  • Ability to handle nature center animals, including snakes, amphibians, and insects; or willingness to learn handling techniques
  • Desire and enthusiasm to work with children and various nature center animals
  • Ability to effectively organize, plan and implement nature activities as well as day-to-day assignments, determine priorities and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision
  • Ability to effectively evaluate emergencies and unexpected situations and promptly respond in an appropriate manner
  • Strong and effective spoken and written (English) communication skills including the ability to accurately complete record-keeping duties, and the ability to effectively present programs to any age group (with special aptitude for lively presentations of interest to children)
  • Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, children and their family members, and the general public

PREFERENCE MAY BE GIVEN FOR:
  • Experience leading programs on environmental/nature-based topics

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / EXAMINATION PROCESS
  • Ability to provide own transportation as needed
  • Ability and willingness to participate in program planning
EXAMINATION PROCESS (may include):
  1. An evaluation of training and experience
  2. One or more interviews
  3. A pre-employment background investigation

Frederick County Government is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding workplace accommodation, including for individuals with disabilities. Applicants who require reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process may contact the Talent Acquisition section of Human Resources. Inquiries about accommodations can be sent to Recruitment@FrederickCountyMD.gov
Position is not eligible to receive benefits with exception to the 457 Plan as listed below.
Savings Plan - Deferred Compensation:
The County offers a Section 457 Plan. Deferred compensation plans allow participants to save for retirement now and pay taxes later by contributing a portion of their salaries pre-tax to the plan. Contributions are invested at the employee's direction into one or more of the variety of investment options offered by the plan. Changes may be made to the contribution levels, investment options, etc. at any time.
01
Your application, which includes any associated supplemental questions, must be complete at the time of submission and must clearly articulate the required work experience relevant to the position for which you are applying. The experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History section of this application. Your application may be considered incomplete if vague descriptions of experience are included or if you cite experience in your supplemental question response that is not included on the Work History section of this application. When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience based on the information submitted, or if you state "see resume" as your response, your application may not be considered further.
  • I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

02
Are you at least 18 years of age?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have at least 6 months (2 summer seasons) work experience related to nature and/or environmental activities/studies - OR - educational background related to teaching and/or environmental studies?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Please provide details regarding that work history or education background in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed.NOTE: When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not be considered further.
05
Do you have work experience leading programs on environmental/nature-based topics?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Please provide details regarding that work history in the text area below. The work history details provided should include the employer or organization name, dates of employment/service and the duties you performed.NOTE: When considering work history, 1 year of employment = 2,080 hours. If Human Resources staff is unable to confirm your related work experience, based on the information submitted, you will not receive the preference credit.
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