What are the best outdoor jobs in Washington?

Washington's premier outdoor jobs include ranger positions in Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Parks, roles with outdoor brands like REI and Eddie Bauer in Seattle, ski patrol and resort operations, wilderness guides for mountaineering and sea kayaking, conservation technicians with Washington State Parks, environmental educators, and marine biology positions along the Salish Sea.

Do I need special permits or licenses to work outdoors in Washington?

Many Washington outdoor positions require specific certifications. Mountain guides need appropriate climbing certifications and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) training. Sea kayaking guides require ACA or BCU certifications. Ski patrol needs PSIA/AASI certification and avalanche training. Environmental education roles may require teaching credentials. Commercial outfitters need Washington State Outfitter licenses for operating on public lands.

What is the best season to find outdoor work in Washington?

Washington offers year-round outdoor employment with distinct seasonal peaks. Summer (June-September) is the busiest season for national parks, wilderness guiding, and outdoor tourism, with hiring starting in March-April. Winter (December-April) drives ski resort employment at Crystal Mountain and other areas. Spring and fall see strong demand for conservation work and environmental education programs. Seattle-based outdoor companies hire year-round.

What is the cost of living like in Washington?

Washington's cost of living varies significantly by region. Seattle and Puget Sound areas are expensive with average rents of $1,500-$2,500/month. However, many outdoor jobs in remote locations like national parks provide housing or housing allowances. Eastern Washington and smaller towns offer more affordable living options. No state income tax helps offset higher costs, and many outdoor positions include benefits packages.

What are the top locations for outdoor jobs in Washington?

Top locations include Seattle (outdoor industry headquarters and retail), Ashford/Mount Rainier area (national park operations), Port Angeles (Olympic National Park gateway), North Cascades region (wilderness and park jobs), Bellingham (outdoor education and guiding), Leavenworth (mountain recreation), and the San Juan Islands (marine and coastal programs).

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Communications and Events Coordinator

Four Wheel Campers

Woodland, CA, UN

1 day ago

Full-time

USD 75,000 - 85,000

Communications and Events Coordinator – Four Wheel Campers (Woodland, CA) Full-time -On site w/ travel 20% throughout the U.S Four Wheel Campers builds durable, lightweight pop-up truck campers for...

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FEATURED

Adventure Sports & Recreation Manager

Discovery Land Company

Hobe Sound, FL, US

2 days ago

Full-time

Atlantic Fields is seeking a Adventure Sports and Recreation Manager, known internally in the company as an Outdoor Pursuits Manager to join the Outdoor Pursuits (OP) Department.

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Communications and Events Coordinator

Adventure Sports & Recreation Manager

Food Service Staff

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Camp Chief Ouray-Multiple Positions

Backpacking & Mountain Biking Leader-Camp Chief Ouray

Backpacking Adventure Leader-Camp Chief Ouray

Wilderness Expedition Leader-Camp Chief Ouray

Elevate Gap Program

Summer Bike Camp Instructor for Pedalheads!

Summer Bike Camp Supervisor

Overnight Youth Conservation Crew Member

2026 MobilizeGreen Youth Conservation Crew Leader

Summer Bike Camp Manager - Pedalheads!

Patient Service Specialist

Lead Before and After School Instructor-Auburn (Terminal Park Elementary)

Nurse for Summer Season at Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Office Manager for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Assistant Director for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Lodge Leader for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Head Cook for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Environmental Education Seasonal Kitchen Staff in Monroe, WA

Lifeguard for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Summer Camp Seasonal Head Lifeguard in Carnation, WA

Cabin Leader for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Kitchen Staff for Summer Season-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Summer Camp Seasonal Craft Specialist-Camp Don Bosco in Carnation, WA

Camp Director for Summer Season-CYO Day Camp in Carnation, WA

Lodge Leader for Summer Season-Camp Hamilton in Monroe, WA

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Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Jobs in Washington

What are the best outdoor jobs in Washington?

Do I need special permits or licenses to work outdoors in Washington?

What is the best season to find outdoor work in Washington?

What is the cost of living like in Washington?

What are the top locations for outdoor jobs in Washington?

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