Outdoor Jobs That Don’t Require A College Degree

No degree - no problem! Outdoor careers come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to get paid to be outside, you’re in the right place.

It’s no secret that the outdoor adventure industry is exploding. Hundreds of companies want YOU to lead people on awesome adventures – whether you want to explore more of your own backyard or forests a thousand miles away, there is something out there for you.

Many outdoor and adventure industry jobs that don’t require a degree are entry level but that doesn’t mean you have to stay entry level. Entry level, seasonal positions are a perfect way to get your foot in the door and work your way up!

Ski Instructor Jobs

Do you want to spend a season (or a lifetime) skiing or snowboarding everyday? We don’t blame you. You get to live where people vacation!

Ski resorts have so many outdoor positions. Ski instructors, rental technicians, ski patrol, restaurants and hospitality, event staff…the list goes on and on. Though winter is the busiest time for ski resort towns, they often have plenty of happenings in the summer, too. So, if you find a place and job that you love, you can create career stability by working year round at a local golf course, restaurant, adventure center, or state park!

Looking for similar winter season positions? Here are even more opportunities!

Trip Guiding Jobs

Trip guiding jobs can take on many forms - simply choose your favorite outdoor sport! Whether you like to river raft, fish, hike, backpack, mountain bike, or snowshoe…there’s a guiding position out there for you. Guiding positions don’t typically require higher education. Instead, you’ll want to look into outdoor safety courses and certifications for your specific sport.

For example, American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) provides certifications in the rock climbing sector while Swiftwater Rescue Training would be helpful as a kayak guide. Also, we think that basic First Aid, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid certifications are important for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Summer Camp Instructors

While most summer camps are run by education professionals, many hire assistant positions each year that are perfect for teenagers and young adults! So, whether you’re looking for your first summer job as a high schooler or want to break into the outdoor education field in your mid-twenties, spending a season as a camp counselor (or assistant) will be a huge resume builder!

Summer camps spring up all over the United States, so use these few months over the summer to explore a brand new area! The Career Outdoors network discusses summer camp positions frequently — join us! (We also share job opportunities, industry-specific guidance, and advice daily.)

Conservation Corps Jobs

Some Conservation Corps positions don’t require advanced education or are perfect for people whose degree is still in the works! These are great opportunities for young professionals as many of them have an age cap. Corps member and leader positions generally become available in the winter, aiming to fill open positions by March-July, depending on location.

Once you land your Conservation Corps position, check out the Career Outdoor Conservation Corps Camping Checklist.

Trail Crew Jobs

Many entry level trail crew positions don’t require a college degree. As the outdoor industry becomes more competitive, a degree in progress will give you an advantage in the applicant pool, but it still is not completely necessary. Trail crew positions are wonderful for starting a career in public lands or outdoor recreation.

If you’re interested in trail crew positions but do not have relevant trail experience, consider joining a volunteer crew in your area. Many outdoor nonprofits and government agencies host trail maintenance and public land stewardship events. These are great networking opportunities and will give you the chance to learn on-the-job skills prior to applying.

Parks Maintenance Jobs

Working for your local park or conservation district is the perfect summer job for outdoorsy folks! It’s tough work, no doubt, but you’ll get to spend all day outside and gain a ton of great experience that will allow you to move up in the field.

Photographer or Videographer

If you are a creative inspired by the natural world, you can start your own freelancing business and begin work right now! In fact, many creative pursuits are self-taught. While some artists, jewelers, painters, and photographers have a formal education behind them, many have perfected their craft through trial, error, and dedication.

Additionally, contract based positions for creative fields are much more plentiful than full-time positions.

No matter where you get your start in the outdoor industry - we’re happy you’re here. If you’re ready to jumpstart your career ASAP, check out this free webinar on How to Land Your First Outdoor Job.