15 Outdoor Jobs That Pay Well

A 9-5 desk job certainly isn’t for everybody. If you’re the type of person who would rather have a blue-collar career where you can stay active and still earn a big paycheck, there are dozens of high-paying outdoor jobs that fit the bill.

Finding employment in the great outdoors can be a lucrative career path for adventure-seekers, environmentalists, animal lovers, and scientists. The job outlook for many of the highest-paying outdoor occupations is promising.

The large majority of these blue-collar jobs are in high-demand as industries are expected to grow in the coming years, pushing the salary range well above average.

While most of the best-paying outside jobs require advanced schooling, the pay-off is well worth it. Employees working in the top 15 highest paying careers are often able to achieve six-figure annual wages.

Key Takeaways:

• Outdoor jobs range from hands-on blue collar work to scientific research.

• Outdoor jobs can be great for your physical and mental health because they provide an active environment and a natural setting.

• Outdoor jobs offer high salary opportunities, especially for those with graduate degrees.

15 Best Paying Jobs for People Who Love to Be Outdoors

We rounded up all the best outdoor jobs and found the 15 best-paid gigs:

1. Meteorologist
   Average Annual Salary: $52,000

   A meteorologist, or weather forecaster, studies the weather and climate and predicts local weather patterns.

   While meteorologists are typically employed at weather stations, laboratories, or offices, they are often required to do fieldwork to examine weather phenomena or emergencies.

   If you’re a weather geek, a meteorologist could be a great career path for you to report on what you love and spend ample time outdoors.

   Entry-level meteorologists earn an average salary of $35,000 annually, but experienced forecasters can make an annual salary of $100,000.

   A college degree in atmospheric sciences is usually necessary to land high-paid gigs. Research meteorologists also typically need a master’s degree or a Ph.D.

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2. Marine biologist
   Average Annual Salary: $61,804

   If you’re fascinated by the ocean, fish, and marine life, this might be where you find your dream job. Marine biologists study oceans and the marine life that lives in them.

   Marine biology is rewarding research-focused work that can include investigating marine species’ behaviors, investigating aquatic diseases, and measuring human impact on Earth’s oceans.

   Working as a marine biologist can take you everywhere, from aquariums, zoos, and research facilities to exotic destinations and marine sanctuaries.

   Marine biologists spend a considerable amount of time outdoors in the field, conducting research, collecting data, and examining marine life patterns.

   The average salary is $35,000-$100,000, making marine biology one of the best paid outdoor jobs in America.

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3. Park ranger
   Average Annual Salary: $43,000

   A park ranger is a fun outdoor job that pays considerably well. Park rangers are tasked with educating the public and protecting state and national parks and the wildlife and resources in them.

   The National Park Service offers various park ranger careers, including permanent positions, seasonal jobs, and volunteer opportunities.

   Working as a park ranger allows you to live and work in some of the most beautiful places in the country and across the world. There is no shortage of jobs, from Alaska to Maine and the Virgin Islands to Guam.

   Park rangers earn a median salary of $50,000-$70,000 per year. The role is regarded as one of the country’s top 40 fun jobs that pay well. It’s also a great career path for those interested in forest conservation, environmental science, and education.

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4. Landscape architect
   Average Annual Salary: $58,000

   Landscape architects design functional and aesthetically pleasing gardens, parks, playgrounds, and outdoor spaces at private homes, businesses, government facilities, and campuses.

   After schooling and licensure, landscape architects create designs, consult with clients, and prepare models, spending much of their workday at outdoor job sites.

   Salary data shows that landscape architects are some of the best-paid professionals in their industry. They make an average annual salary of $70,000.

   Other than good money, landscaping is also a perfect gig for people with anxiety — it’s a low-stress job that requires you to be outside for most, if not all, of your workday. Creating designs and tending to yards and gardens helps to induce a calming and productive work environment.

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5. Petroleum engineer
   Average Annual Salary: $109,000

   Petroleum engineers work at drilling sites to develop plans and design equipment for extracting oil and natural gasses from underground.

   The highest-earning petroleum engineers make nearly $200,000 annually, making it one of the highest paying outdoor jobs.

   Among engineering positions, petroleum engineering is typically classified as the least stressful and most enjoyable and rewarding job, as it involves travel and critical thinking.

   The position requires a higher level of schooling — including a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program and additional certifications — but ranks among some of the best paying jobs in America and the top ten highest paying jobs in Alaska.

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6. Architectural and Engineering manager
   Average Annual Salary: $121,000

   Architectural and engineering managers develop new product concepts and budgets, address technical problems, and oversee the coordination and planning of work at engineering and architectural firms.

   Architectural and engineering managers are also typically tasked with supervising staff and training.

   According to labor statistics, architectural and engineering managers earn an average annual salary of $145,000 and rank among the top 15 best-paid jobs in Nebraska.

   If you’re looking for a profitable mid-career opportunity, this may be your perfect match. Architectural and engineering managers have the luxury of six-figure salaries, executive privileges, and outdoor work environments.

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7. Physical scientist
   Average Annual Salary: $67,000

   Physical scientists study energy and physical properties and often specialize in physics, chemistry, astronomy, or geology. They typically work in academia, research facilities, and private industries.

   Physical scientists spend a good chunk of their time collecting research and conducting experiments, which often takes them into the great outdoors.

   To find high-paying jobs, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, physics, or chemistry, and, in some instances, a master’s or doctoral degree.

   While enjoying time outside and facilitating rewarding scientific projects, physical scientists also earn high wages. They rank among the best-paid professionals in Alabama, making an average of more than $120,000 per year.

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8. Geoscientist
   Average Annual Salary: $99,000

   Geoscientists study Earth’s physical properties and spend ample time outdoors researching some of the world’s most remote areas.

   Many geoscientists lead fieldwork in search of natural resources, like petroleum. Others are involved in land preservation, reclamation, and protection.

   Geoscientists are in high-demand as the need for energy and sustainable land management and protection continues to grow.

   As demand grows, so do salaries. Geoscientists are among the highest-paid workers in Mississippi, and labor statistics show the average median pay is more than $92,000 per year.

   A bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions, but many high-level, high-paid geoscientists also hold a master’s degree, allowing them to earn six figures.

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9. Astronomer
   Average Annual Salary: N/A

   Astronomers study the sky. They use specialized equipment to examine planets, stars, and galaxies and increase human understanding of space and our solar system. Astronomers research laboratories and observatories, allowing for ample time outdoors watching the night sky.

   Getting a job as an astronomer comes with a comfy six-figure paycheck. The role ranks as one of the best-paid jobs in Arizona. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the median salary sits just above $122,000 annually.

   Astronomers are in high-demand as space exploration remains a public interest. Job seekers must be highly qualified in their field to obtain a high-paying job as an astronomer. Most successful astronomers hold a Ph.D.

10. Environmental engineer
    Average Annual Salary: $66,000

    Environmental engineers combine engineering principles, biology, chemistry, and soil science to identify issues and develop solutions to problems facing our environment.

    A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related engineering field, like civil, chemical, or general, is typically required to secure a high-paying job.

    Some environmental engineers inspect facilities for compliance with environmental regulations or advise agencies or government officials on procedures, while others focus on climate change and sustainability.

    Environmental engineers are currently ranked as one of the 100 highest paying occupations in Michigan, where the average salary sits just over $95,200.

    Employment is expected to grow in the environmental engineering field, especially as water quality concerns heighten and state and local governments look to increase their water usage efficiency.

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11. Hydrologist
    Average Annual Salary: $87,000

    Hydrologists study water. They examine how water moves through Earth’s surface and how precipitation impacts rivers, oceans, groundwater, and surface water.

    Demand for hydrologists is high, and employment is expected to grow as the global population also increases. On average, hydrologists can earn more than $80,000 annually and are regarded as some of Tennessee’s best-paid professionals.

    This research-heavy job requires lots of fieldwork, so hydrologists often work in the great outdoors, especially in lakes and streams. Hydrologists usually collect soil and water samples to investigate water quality and offer solutions relating to water availability and safety concerns.

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12. Captain
    Average Annual Salary: $35,000

    If you love boats, the beach, the ocean, and just being outside, becoming a captain may be an attractive and well-paid career option for you.

    Captains navigate ships, supervise crew members, enforce safety procedures as per maritime law, and ensure the wellbeing and safety of all passengers and cargo on-board.

    Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels are among the top 20 highest paying careers in Louisiana, earning a comfortable six-figure salary. While entry-level employees earn, on average, $52,500 annually, seasoned captains make a median salary of more than $122,000 per year.

    Captains spend almost all of their time outdoors, on the water, or docked in various ports. The gig also comes with the opportunity to travel to some of the world’s top tourist destinations.

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13. Farmer
    Average Annual Salary: $44,000

    Farmers grow crops, raise livestock, and produce dairy products. Farming is hard work, but, if successful, you can spend your days outside and earn a pretty decent paycheck.

    The large majority of farmers work on family-owned farms and ranches, where they also maintain facilities and determine how best to price and sell their goods.

    Farming is physically demanding work; however, unlike many other high-paying outdoor jobs, it doesn’t require specialty schooling — just lots of hands-on experience. According to labor statistics, the average pay for farmers and ranchers sits just above $71,000 per year.

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14. Zoologist and Wildlife biologist
    Average Annual Salary: $59,000

    Animal lovers — this is the job for you.

    Zoologists and wildlife biologists spend their days outside studying animals and wildlife in their natural habitats. While in the field, wildlife biologists and zoologists gather data, collect specimens, and observe animal behaviors.

    For many, a zoologist can be a fun and rewarding career, earning an annual salary of $63,000, on average. To pursue the highest-paying jobs within the field of zoology and wildlife biology, a master’s degree is often necessary.

    Many zoologists’ research is rooted in determining the impact of the growing global population on wildlife and their habitats. Their work also often encompasses the study of animal breeding and conservation plans.

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15. Wildland fire fighter
    Average Annual Salary: $42,706

    A wildland firefighter is a perfect job for outdoorsy men and women. Virtually your entire workday is spent outside, combating fires, engaging in fire prevention activities, and responding to emergencies.

    Although risky, a career as a wildland firefighter can be gratifying and earn you a pretty nice salary. You’ll also play a direct role in conserving the environment and protecting people’s lives and homes.

    If you’re looking for a heroic, highly regarded, and well-paid job, working as a wildland firefighter may be right up your alley. Firefighters typically need a high school diploma with fire academy training and earn more than $50,000 yearly.

    The US Forest Service employs about 10,000 wildland firefighters, both seasonally and year-round, and demand for trained wildland firefighters continues to increase — so the job outlook looks promising.

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Tops Reasons to Get a Job Outside and Get Paid the Big Bucks

Not only are outdoor jobs high-paying, but they also offer several perks to keep employees happy financially, physically, and emotionally.

While desk jobs lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes, outdoor jobs improve wellbeing. Getting a job outdoors can reduce a person’s risk of depression and anxiety, be anti-inflammatory, improve memory, naturally reduce pain, and be calming and stress relieving.

Research shows that working outside boosts productivity, increases happiness, and improves memory. Working alongside nature creates an overwhelmingly positive work experience, which fuels employees and, in turn, leads to enhanced creativity, problem-solving skills, and overall workplace satisfaction.

As exposure to nature enhances people’s moods, feelings of trust, community, and relaxation also improve, creating a work environment that fosters teamwork and enhances concentration.

The obvious bonus of being on your feet, instead of trapped in a cubicle or behind a desk, is what excites most blue-collar workers. An active workday outside burns calories and helps individuals lead a healthy lifestyle.

During this global coronavirus pandemic, working outdoor jobs is more popular than ever. Outside air is shown to be less polluted and up to ten times less toxic than indoor air. Working outside also increases white blood cells, which protect against infections and diseases.

Working a high-paying job outside is a refreshing alternative for employees looking to boost their wellbeing and earn attractive, above-average wages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you make a lot of money from an outdoor job?

Yes, you can make a lot of money working an outdoor job. Many outdoor jobs, particularly ones that deal with Earth sciences, have high salary ceilings.

However, to get a high paying outdoor job, you usually want some form of graduate degree. Though this is not necessary, it definitely increases your chances to receive higher pay.

2. What is the best outdoor job to have?

The best outdoor job depends on your interest. There are many different types of outdoor jobs. The best one for you should be one that matches your values, interests, and skills.

3. Are there jobs that allow me to work both inside and outdoors?

Yes, many outdoor jobs also provide time to work inside. For example, a geoscientist has to work both in the field and at a lab, while also writing out research and conducting work at other professional facilities.

Final Thoughts

Many jobs can be an excellent fit for you if you’re looking to make good money and spend your days outside.

If you’re an outdoorsy person looking to turn your passion for nature into a real career, these 15 career paths can pay off. With these careers, you’ll be able to ditch your 9-5 office job and, instead, head for the great outdoors.

Whether you’re interested in science, animals, conservation, marine life, architecture, or landscaping, there’s an outdoor career for you that will match both your interests and your financial needs.

Author

Elsie Boskamp

Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.