Published on April 23, 2019
7 Jobs That Allow You to Work Outdoors

In this post
Being cooped up in the office all day long isn’t for everyone. These jobs can provide you with a breath of fresh air – literally! – and most of all, they can combine your career with the chance to work outdoors.
1. Animal Care Worker
Can’t get enough of dogs, cats, and all things furry and friendly?
If you’re considering an “animalistic” career, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to combine your indoor responsibilities with outdoor.
Most animal care jobs focus on health and welfare, so you’ll need to be prepared to study in one of these areas. If not, you could also take on a course that teaches you about animal maintenance in the way of grooming, handling, or training.
Veterinarian average
$65,540
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You’re a caring person who wants to be involved with pets and animals!
2. Construction Worker
Gaining a qualification in construction can open up many career opportunities – and it means you’ll be predominantly working outdoors on construction sites.
Why become a construction worker?
Construction offers you the chance to develop a career that is truly hands-on, with the chance to perfect your trade, see builds come together, work as part of a team and even develop your project management skills.
Common career paths can see you becoming a Domestic Builder, a Surveyor, a Civil Construction Worker, or a Site Manager.
builder average
$59,478
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You want to learn a trade and like working with your hands.
3. Tour Guide
Want a job that will take you far and wide, as well as into the outdoors?
For those who love being on the go, becoming a tour guide can be a fantastic job.
It can put you in touch with like-minded tourists and travellers, and give you the chance to learn about the histories and cultures associated with certain places – all while having lots of fun!
There’s also great flexibility in being a tour guide, with opportunities to set your own hours and work from a range of different locations, whether locally or around the world.
tour guide average
$29,556
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You have lots of energy, enjoy talking to people, and love history and facts.
4. Journalist
You wouldn’t think it, but journalists often spend their time outdoors. They chase stories, conduct interviews, and spend time ‘on site’ where stories might be taking place.
Journalism is an excellent career choice if you have a strong flair for writing engaging stories, and also want a combination of working inside and outside.
Some journalists might spend more time indoors, whereas others (like sports journos) will often spend lots of time outdoors.
Journalist average
$40,179
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You’re a writer at heart who wants a fast-paced role that differs each day.
5. Environmental Worker
Ah, the environment. Endless opportunities for wonderful careers and staying in touch with nature.
Environmental studies can lead you down incredible career paths, most of which will have you working under the sun.
You can dive into horticulture, learn about landscaping and gardening, or become involved in various areas of environmental management and planning.
environmental scientist average
$50,903
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You have an interest in environmental management, engineering, or science. Or simply want to work with plants, whether in a nursery, bush region, or marine region.
6. Photographer
Photographers can also land themselves in the great outdoors.
If you enjoy exercising your artistic talents outside of the studio, becoming a wildlife, nature, sports, wedding, or travel photographer might be right for you.
Photography can be competitive in terms of careers, but there is also excellent flexibility and many photographers often work freelance.
Photographer average
$45,115
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You have an eye for detail, a flair for the frame, and can work independently.
7. Personal Trainer / Fitness Instructor
Let’s go, guys! Pump it! Use the full range of motion! Gimme four more!
If these are words you’ve dreamed of shouting, becoming a personal trainer or fitness instructor could be your calling.
While you might have to put in some hours teaching at the gym, many personal trainers and fitness instructors also run courses outdoors – such as in parks or other ‘natural’ areas.
There are great opportunities to be your own boss as a fitness trainer, creating your own hours, setting your own rates, and working with motivated fitness enthusiasts.
personal trainer average
$39,533
salary p/a
Source: Payscale – as of 08/19
Best if: You have a strong desire to teach and motivate others through fitness.
Want to read more?
Is the Future Secure for Counselling and Mental Health Careers?
Take a glimpse into the future of mental health careers such as counselling, and get started on your...
Sports Journalism – Have You Got What It Takes?
Interested in sports journalism? Other than a love of sport you’ll need excellent writing skills, an...
What is an Animal Carer and How Do You Become One?
Animal carers are responsible for the care and well-being of animals. Job duties include daily clean...