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Jobs in the Outdoor Recreation Industry
If you love the outdoors, wouldn’t it be great to find a career that allows you to continue your adventures? Of course it would! Finding your path can be tougher to find than locating an overgrown trail head.
The outdoor recreation industry is more than just hiking and camping; it’s a diverse field encompassing everything from manufacturing gear to teaching outdoor skills. Common roles include park rangers, outdoor guides, camp staff, outdoor gear sales, wildlife biologists, and marketing professionals.
Landing a job in this sector requires passion, strategy, and often, a unique blend of skills. This guide breaks down the essential steps to help you navigate the path to your dream outdoor job.
Luckily you often know if this is your passion even before reading this guide.
How Big is the Outdoor Industry?
The outdoor recreation economy generates an incredible $1.2 trillion in economic output annually in the United States. This industry supports 5 million American jobs, making it a major employer.
The outdoor industry is not only a significant economic driver but also a vital part of American culture and lifestyle.
Its continued growth and evolution offer exciting opportunities for those seeking a career in this dynamic field.
Define Your Niche
What aspect of the outdoors excites you most? Is it rock climbing, environmental education, sustainable product development, or something else entirely? Pinpointing your passion will focus your job search and increase your chances of finding fulfilling work.
- Explore Career Paths: Research the diverse roles within the outdoor industry. Consider these categories and beyond:
- Retail: Sales, customer service, gear fitting, management. Bootfitters is a common job at ski shops.
- Manufacturing: Design, production, quality control, marketing.
- Outdoor Education/Recreation: Guiding, instructing, leading trips, camp counseling. You often need multiple certifications, but it is a great way to share your knowledge.
- Conservation/Advocacy: Research, policy analysis, lobbying, education. Join groups like POW, the outdoor movement for climate impact.
- Tourism/Hospitality: Lodge management, tour operations, adventure travel planning. These can be easier to find. Vail Resorts is one of the largest employers in Colorado and hires across multiple sectors. They get some heat on social media, but many can find these jobs rewarding.
- Media/Marketing: Writing, photography, videography, social media management. Do you take stunning photos or videos? Create a portfolio to showcase your work. Hiring managers for content heavy roles will often require examples of work.
Honestly evaluate your existing skills. Which are transferable to the outdoor industry? Consider technical skills (climbing, first aid), soft skills (communication, leadership), and relevant experience (volunteering, personal outdoor pursuits).
You can always build upon your skills with certification offered by numerous commercial retailers. That what the next section is for.
Build Your Foundation
While passion and experience are crucial in the outdoor industry, having the right education can definitely give you a competitive edge. Depending on your chosen path, specific education and certifications may be required or highly beneficial.
Degrees: Consider degrees in environmental science, recreation management, outdoor leadership, business, marketing, or relevant fields.
- Colorado Mountain College (CMC): With multiple campuses nestled in the heart of the Rockies, CMC offers a variety of outdoor-focused degrees, including sustainability studies, parks and recreation management, and geology. Their location provides unparalleled access to outdoor adventures and internships.
- Western Colorado University: Located in Gunnison, WCU offers a unique Outdoor Industry MBA program, combining a traditional business education with specialized tracks in product or service aspects of the outdoor industry. This program is designed to prepare future leaders in the outdoor sector.
- University of Oregon: Located in Eugene, a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, UO boasts excellent programs in environmental science, environmental studies, and geography. Their Outdoor Program is a fantastic resource for students to gain experience and connect with the industry.
Certifications: Wilderness First Aid (WFA), Wilderness First Responder (WFR), CPR, Leave No Trace (LNT) Instructor, specific activity certifications (e.g., climbing instructor, kayaking guide).
- American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA): If you’re aiming for a career in mountaineering, rock climbing, or backcountry skiing, AMGA certifications are the gold standard. They offer rigorous training and assessment programs for guides and instructors.
- Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA): PCIA focuses specifically on climbing instruction, with certifications for indoor and outdoor settings. They are a great option if you want to teach climbing in gyms or at outdoor climbing areas.
- American Canoe Association (ACA): For paddling enthusiasts, ACA offers certifications in various disciplines, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Their programs cover skills, safety, and instruction. Wilderness Medicine Organizations: Wilderness medicine certifications are essential for anyone working in remote areas.
Practical experience is invaluable. Seek out opportunities to build your resume and use what you learned during your own adventures:
- Volunteering: Volunteer with outdoor organizations, conservation groups, or local parks. Check out Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado.
- Seasonal Jobs: Seasonal positions (e.g., summer camps, ski resorts) can be a great entry point.
- Personal Projects: Document your own outdoor adventures and skills through blogs, photography, or videos. This demonstrates passion and initiative.
Connect With People in the Industry
- Attend Events: Outdoor recreation industry trade shows, conferences, and local events are excellent networking opportunities.
- Join Organizations: Become a member of relevant professional organizations.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to people working in roles you’re interested in for informational interviews.
The Job Search
Customize your resume and cover letter for each specific job, highlighting relevant skills and experience. If you were in the scouts or created a viral outdoor video, now is your time to show off. Use this to showcase your passion for the outdoors and your understanding of the company’s mission. A cover letter is easy and also a great way to stand out. Mention the company and why you want to specifically work for them.
- Online Job Boards: Utilize job boards specific to the outdoor recreation industry, as well as general job sites. Some resources include:
- Outdoor Industry Jobs: Check websites of specific companies and organizations. National and state parks all post their openings online. Vail resorts is always hiring too.
- Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor: Use keywords like “outdoor,” “adventure,” “conservation,” and specific job titles.
Leverage your network to learn about unadvertised openings. If applicable, create a portfolio showcasing your work (e.g., writing samples, photography, design projects).
Prepare for common interview questions and practice your answers. Be ready to discuss your outdoor experience, skills, and passion for the industry. Be enthusiastic and demonstrate your genuine interest.
Thriving in the Industry
Stay up-to-date on industry trends, new gear, and best practices. There are plenty of sites to research products and recent news. We’re one of them!
Seek opportunities for professional growth through workshops, conferences, and continuing education.
Nurture your network and build strong relationships with colleagues and industry professionals.
The outdoor industry often comes with a unique lifestyle. Be prepared for potential travel, flexible hours, and a passion-driven work environment.
Key Tips for Success
Be Persistent: The job market can be competitive. Don’t get discouraged by rejections. Keep applying and networking.
Be Passionate: Your genuine passion for the outdoors will shine through and make you a more attractive candidate.
Be Adaptable: The outdoor industry is constantly evolving. Be willing to learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances.
Be Professional: Maintain a professional demeanor in all your interactions, from networking events to job interviews.
The outdoor recreation industry offers a wealth of rewarding career paths for those with a passion for the natural world.
While the path to landing your dream job may require dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach, the rewards – contributing to a sustainable future, connecting people with nature, and pursuing a career aligned with your values – are well worth the effort.
By defining your niche, building a strong foundation, actively networking, and showcasing your skills and passion, you can increase your chances of success and embark on a fulfilling career in the vibrant and ever-evolving outdoor industry.
Remember that the journey itself is part of the adventure. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the small victories, and never stop exploring the possibilities that await you in the great outdoors.
Good luck, and keep your adventures coming!