5 Awesome Careers in the Great Outdoors

If the idea of being confined to a desk all day doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of great careers that let you work in the great outdoors. Outdoor careers offer a rewarding way to combine your passion for the outdoors with a fulfilling profession and a nice salary. Today we’re going to talk about some exciting outdoor careers for you to consider. Let’s begin.

Photographer

Photographers have the unique ability to capture moments and tell stories through their images. If you’re all about the outdoors, you could specialize in landscape, wildlife, or adventure photography. Another great perk of being an outdoor photographer is you’ll be able to visit a variety of locations, from remote wilderness areas to busy cities—all while being paid to be there!

Patient individuals who have an eye for detail make great photographers. If this career interests you, go for a bachelor’s degree in photography or a related field. Many photographers are self-taught; however, potential employers may favor candidates who have formal training and a degree. As a photographer you can expect to make anywhere between $30,000 and $95,000 a year, depending on factors such as your level of experience, specialization, and portfolio.

Zoologist

Zoologists study the behavior, physiology, and genetics of animals. They often work in natural habitats, zoos, or research facilities, observing animals and conducting experiments to better understand their lives. In many cases, zoologists share their knowledge by publishing their research findings on websites or in academic journals and other periodicals. This career path is ideal for those who are passionate about wildlife and conservation.

The best zoologists pay close attention to detail, and are skilled at interpreting data and understanding complex biological processes. To become a zoologist, you’ll have to get yourself a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a related field. In this role, you’ll make anywhere between $50,000 and $80,000 a year; however, your earning potential may increase drastically depending on your area of expertise.

Marine Biologist

Marine biologists study ocean life, including the behavior, physiology, and ecosystems of marine organisms. Their work often involves both laboratory research and fieldwork, where they may dive to observe marine life or collect samples for analysis. If you’re passionate about ocean conservation and marine ecosystems, this career might be perfect for you.

Like zoologists, the best marine biologists have a keen eye and are able to analyze and understand complex ecosystems. To get started, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field. For more advanced positions, potential employers may want to see a master’s degree or a PhD. As a marine biologist you can expect to make anywhere between $40,000 and $110,000 a year.

Environmental Scientist

If you’re looking to make a positive impact on the environment, this career is for you. Environmental scientists work to protect the environment by conducting research and advising on policies that promote sustainability. They analyze environmental data, study pollutants, and work on projects aimed at preserving natural resources.

Those with strong problem-solving and organizational skills make great environmental scientists. If you’re interested in a career as an environmental scientist, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Certain roles may also require you to have a master’s or a PhD, or specialized certifications. The average annual salary range for environmental scientists is between $50,000 and $120,000.

Landscape Architect

Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and residential areas. They combine their knowledge of the environment with creative design skills to create aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces. If you’re a creative thinker with a passion for environmental sustainability, there’s a good chance you’d enjoy this career path.

Since you’ll be working with clients, strong communication skills are key. In addition to this, landscape architects are proficient in design software. To get started in this career, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, as well as any necessary licenses such as the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE). In this role, you can expect to make anywhere between $60,000 and $150,000 a year.

Whether you’re capturing the beauty of nature, studying animal behavior, protecting the environment, or designing cozy outdoor spaces, outdoor careers provide not only financial rewards but also the satisfaction of working closely with the natural world. With the right combination of education, skills, and determination, you can turn your love for the outdoors into a fulfilling and lucrative career.