16 Outdoor Jobs to Pursue

Outdoor jobs are professional working positions that take place outside as opposed to those in an indoor setting. These jobs can come with several benefits including improved mental clarity and greater focus. Not only that, but they also give you the opportunity to connect with nature and the environment around you. Depending on your education and work experience, there are different outdoor jobs you can take advantage of in the workforce.

Now that you know what an outdoor job is, consider if outdoor employment is conducive to your work style. If it’s something you want to pursue, use the following list to find an outdoor job in your industry:

Camp counselor

Average Base Pay: $20,482 per year

Camp counselors oversee a group of campers and strive to provide them with a safe and fun camp experience. They use their leadership and people skills to provide an enjoyable environment on a daily basis. Camp counselors also work to implement a variety of programs and activities campers for campers to enjoy.

Park ranger

Average Base Pay: $24,343 per year

Park rangers aim to preserve various outdoor areas. Often employed by the National Park Service, they patrol natural environments and ensure visiting campers obey certain rules. Park rangers have good communication skills, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of the outdoors.

Dog walker

Average Base Pay: $25,496 per year

Dog walkers take their clients’ dogs for their daily exercise. They often transport the dog from their client’s home, take them out for a walk, and return them safely back home. Dog walkers may also provide their client’s dogs with clean water and food.

Farmer

Average Base Pay: $29,050 per year

Farmers own or manage an agricultural farm. Some of their duties may include raising orchards, livestock, or vineyards. Throughout their day, farmers perform manual labor, work with heavy machinery, and supervise a crew of farmworkers. Farmers also repair faulty machinery and perform necessary maintenance on the farm as needed.

Botanist

Average Base Pay: $49,720 per year

Botanists study plants and their relation to the environment. During their fieldwork, they collect plant samples and make observations. They also determine how the weather, pollutants, and other sources affect plant life. Botanists use their biology, mathematical, and analytical skills on a daily basis.

Archeologist

Average Base Pay: $50,049 per year

Archeologists conduct extensive research and survey dig sites. In an effort to trace human and prehistoric history, they collect artifacts and analyze remains. Archeologists spend the majority of their day conducting investigations at dig sites. They use their photography and research skills on a daily basis.

Environmental scientist

Average Base Pay: $52,700 per year

Environmental scientists aim to protect the natural environment by helping to reduce waste and assisting with the cleanup of polluted areas. They also make recommendations to policymakers on how best to support the environment as it relates to human health.

Wildlife biologist

Average Base Pay: $52,700 per year

Wildlife biologists study animals and their interactions with other species and their surrounding environment. They perform studies, collect data, and present their findings to better understand an ecosystem.

Arborist

Average Base Pay: $54,558 per year

Arborists aim to keep trees healthy by pruning, hedging, or removing them from various locations. They also plant trees and have a solid foundation of tree-climbing techniques to help them better perform their job. While they work outdoors climbing and trimming trees, arborists also spend time developing park layouts or planning future planting projects.

Landscape architect

Average Base Pay: $55,167 per year

Landscape architects create design plans for buildings and public spaces based on a client’s preferences and needs. They work in both offices and job sites to ensure a steady construction process.

Geographer

Average Base Pay: $64,842 per year

Geographers use maps and other tools to study the Earth, its land distribution, and its inhabitants. They also observe the climate, water, and vegetation, and take a look at the various characteristics of a region’s population such as the political and economical climate. Geographers collect geographic data and use their communication skills to help others understand the geographic information systems.

Agronomist

Average Base Pay: $65,416 per year

Agronomists aim to solve issues related to plants and soil. They find new ways to grow food with fewer resources through crop and seed research. They also do field checks, collect samples, and make observations.

Construction manager

Average Base Pay: $74,730 per year

Construction managers oversee the building process for a variety of projects. They follow the building project from conception to completion and ensure it’s completed and compliant with both building and safety regulations. Construction managers also estimate project costs and ensure projects are completed on time.

Civil engineer

Average Base Pay: $76,540 per year

Civil engineers develop plans for the buildings and other public works. They also help with the building process and supervise various projects. Civil engineers manage their team throughout the design process and spend time on site to ensure their projects run smoothly. Civil engineers use their mathematical and problem-solving skills to properly execute their daily duties.

Petroleum engineer

Average Base Pay: $104,917 per year

Petroleum engineers create methods for the extraction of both oil and gas. They perform heavy research and work on drilling sites to ensure a smooth operation. Petroleum engineers use their strong knowledge of physics, geology, information technology, and mathematical skills to perform their job effectively.

Commercial fisherman

Average Base Pay: $109,556 per year

Commercial fishermen catch seafood to make a profit. They use a variety of equipment such as nets and fishing rods to reel in marine life for human consumption, animal feed, or bait. Commercial fishermen also unload fish off of a boat or vessel and repair their equipment as needed.