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Outdoor Recreation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Billings

$18 - $20/hr

Previous experience in outdoor recreation activities as a participant or instructor is required. First Aid and CPR certifications are required for this position.

US Department of the Air Force

AK

$23/hr

Practical knowledge and/or experience of recreational activities and equipment, rules, and procedures in recreation program activity which has involved recreation work in the area of specialty in ...

STI

Forest Recreation Specialist(Outdoor)

An important part of multiple use management revolves around outdoor recreation. The State Forest system has experienced a significant increase in outdoor recreation over the past few years and is ...

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Outdoor Recreation information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do outdoor recreation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor recreation in the United States is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Outdoor Recreation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Outdoor Recreation, you need knowledge of outdoor safety, environmental stewardship, and recreation planning, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with GPS navigation, outdoor gear, and reservation or permit systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals guide groups and respond effectively to changing conditions. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and sustainable outdoor experiences for participants.

What Are Outdoor Recreation Jobs?

Outdoor recreation jobs involve responsibilities related to recreational activities that take place outside. You can work as a tour guide for an area, in which your duties are to lead hikes and provide information on the area. You can also develop programs to educate and teach people about the wilderness or set up any programs that involve nature or outdoor community facilities. You can become a park ranger, an outdoor education instructor, an outdoor recreation guide, a camp counselor, or a conservation specialist. There are also higher level positions where you manage and oversee a specific area of land and supervise additional staff members.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Outdoor Recreation, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Outdoor Recreation often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, ensuring participant safety, and adapting to varying group skill levels. Managing these requires strong planning skills, flexibility, and thorough risk assessments before each activity. Building strong communication with team members and participants helps address concerns quickly, while ongoing training in first aid and emergency protocols ensures preparedness. Collaborating with colleagues and staying updated on best practices can further enhance both safety and the overall participant experience.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation vs Outdoor Education?

AspectOutdoor RecreationOutdoor Education
Required CredentialsVaries; often certifications in outdoor activities or first aidCertifications in teaching, outdoor leadership, or environmental education
Work EnvironmentRecreational settings like parks, resorts, adventure companiesEducational settings such as schools, camps, environmental programs
Employer & Industry UsageRecreation centers, adventure companies, parksSchools, non-profits, environmental organizations

Outdoor Recreation focuses on providing recreational outdoor activities for enjoyment and leisure, often in commercial or public settings. Outdoor Education emphasizes teaching outdoor skills and environmental awareness, typically in educational or camp environments. While both involve outdoor settings, their primary goals and credentials differ, making each role unique within the outdoor industry.

What is outdoor recreation?

Outdoor recreation refers to leisure activities that are performed outside and often involve a connection with nature. Examples include hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, kayaking, and rock climbing. These activities are enjoyed for relaxation, adventure, exercise, or socializing, and they can take place in parks, forests, mountains, or waterways. Outdoor recreation is beneficial for physical and mental health and promotes an appreciation for the environment.
More about Outdoor Recreation jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Recreation jobs? Cities with the most Outdoor Recreation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Outdoor Recreation jobs? The most popular types of Outdoor Recreation jobs are:
What states have the most Outdoor Recreation jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Recreation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation jobs are:
Outdoor Recreation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,898 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Recreation Specialist (Outdoor Recreation) NF-03

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort Wainwright, AK

$45K/yr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This position is located at Fort Wainwright Outdoor Recreation.
Incentives and Bonuses
  • Incentives may be paid.
  • Up to 25% recruitment or relocation and/or retention incentive may be paid (service agreement required). Recruitment incentives are applicable to newly hired individuals/rehired individuals. Relocation incentives are applicable to current NAF employees who have accepted a Regular Full-Time (RFT) in a different geographical location with no break in service.
Qualifications:Resumes must be two pages (or less). Resumes should clearly demonstrate the applicant's relevant experience, skills, knowledge and abilities as they pertain to this position. A qualified candidate must possess the following:
  • Possess three (3) years of general recreation experience, demonstrated by applying the goals, principles, methods, and techniques of recreation programs and an understanding of interests of the individuals or group. This experience may be in, but is not limited to, one or more of the following recreational activities: cross-country skiing, hiking, biking, canoeing, camping, trips, skeet shooting, parks, ranges, mountain-climbing and overnight recreational trips.
OR
  • *Completion of the requirements for a bachelor's degree with major study in outdoor recreation and parks; recreation management; youth, public, urban or community recreation; or special population recreation is qualifying experience.
OR
  • *Possess a combination of experience and education of the above listed criteria ((Example: An associate's degree (with major course study as identified above) and five (5) years of general recreational work experience)).

*If qualifying based on education, transcripts must be uploaded at the time of application for verification purposes.
In addition to the above qualifications, candidates who possess the following qualifications will be considered "Highly Preferred" or "Best Qualified":
  • Possess a current Wilderness First Responder Certification.
  • Possess experience facilitating outdoor adventure programming in cold weather climates.
  • Possess experience teaching outdoor recreation, safety, and awareness curriculum.
Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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