Love the Outdoors? Make It Your Career!
Not everyone thrives in an office setting. If you love working outdoors and taking on new challenges, there are many career paths to explore. These jobs offer adventure, stability, and strong earning potential—especially in the Pacific Northwest.
Disclaimer: Salaries for outdoor careers vary based on location, experience, and industry demand. This guide provides general insights into different career paths but does not guarantee specific salary ranges.
1. Land Surveyor – Great Pay, No Desk Required
Land surveying is a high-demand profession that combines outdoor fieldwork, technology, and problem-solving. Surveyors measure and map land for construction, real estate development, and infrastructure projects. This career offers a mix of physical work and technical expertise, making it a great fit for those who enjoy working outdoors and using technology.
- No college degree required to start as a surveying technician
- Work in various locations, from rural landscapes to urban developments
- Use advanced tools like GPS, drones, and 3D mapping software
- Opportunities to advance into a licensed surveying position
If you're curious about what land surveyors do daily, read What Do Land Surveyors Do?.
2. Wildlife Biologist – Protecting Nature While Working Outdoors
Wildlife biologists study ecosystems, track animal populations, and develop conservation plans. Many work for government agencies, national parks, or environmental organizations.
- Requires a degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field
- Involves field research, data collection, and habitat conservation
- Opportunities to work in national parks, forests, and protected lands
3. Forestry Technician – Working Among the Trees
Forestry technicians help manage and protect forested land, working on wildfire prevention, conservation, and land management projects.
- No degree required for entry-level roles
- Involves tasks like tree planting, surveying forest health, and assisting with controlled burns
- Jobs available with government agencies, private forestry companies, and conservation organizations
4. Commercial Diver – Underwater Careers With Adventure
Commercial divers work on underwater construction, welding, and inspections for bridges, oil rigs, and pipelines. While this career requires specialized training, it offers unique work environments.
- Requires commercial diving certification
- Work can include underwater maintenance, salvage operations, and infrastructure inspections
- Can involve travel and work in extreme conditions
5. Park Ranger – Protecting Public Lands & Educating Visitors
Park rangers manage and protect national and state parks, assist visitors, and educate the public about conservation.
- Roles range from law enforcement to environmental education
- Some positions require degrees in environmental science, forestry, or law enforcement
- Work in stunning natural locations across the Pacific Northwest
How to Transition to an Outdoor Career
If you’re considering a career change, you may wonder, Is it too late to change careers? The answer is no! Many outdoor jobs, including land surveying, have pathways that allow career changers to gain experience and certifications without starting from scratch.
Some jobs require a degree, while others offer training programs or apprenticeships. Land surveying, for example, allows you to start in entry-level roles and work your way up. Read Do I Need a Degree to Be a Land Surveyor? to explore alternative pathways.
Why Consider Land Surveying?
Among these careers, land surveying stands out as a profession with:
- A clear entry path with or without a degree
- High demand and long-term job stability
- Opportunities to work outdoors while using cutting-edge technology
Surveying also offers flexibility in work environments. If you're wondering about the balance between **fieldwork and office work**, check out Do I Have to Work in the Field as a Land Surveyor?.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Career
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and being outdoors, there are many career options to consider. The best path depends on your interests, whether it's conservation, construction, or technology.
If you prefer using **advanced technology** while working outside, surveying is a great fit. Learn more about the technology surveyors use in their day-to-day work.
Start Your Outdoor Career Today
Outdoor jobs offer freedom, variety, and a strong sense of accomplishment. Whether you're drawn to land surveying, environmental work, or construction, there are plenty of opportunities to build a rewarding career outside.
If land surveying sounds like a great fit, learn how to get started: How Do I Get Licensed as a Land Surveyor?
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