Get Paid to Be Outside

As summer approaches, most of us are excited to spend as much time outdoors as we possibly can. There are plenty of opportunities to work outside and earn some extra cash in your spare time (and they don't all require an "outdoor office").

Summer Jobs
The best part about these summer opportunities is that relatively little training is needed.

Camp Counselor
This can be a rewarding way to earn money and possibly even get the opportunity to travel around the world. Many counselors come to North America from overseas, and you can do searches to work at camps abroad. Depending on where you apply, the pay will be around $175 to $400 a week, but note that many camps do also provide room and board. Check out Campchannel.com for more information. Try one of these great green summer camps.

Photographer
Pursue this hobby on weekends and earn some extra cash. Digital photography reduces costs and exposure to harmful chemicals, and websites like iStockphoto make it easy to get paid for your work (rates start at 20% per sale). Get some inspiration from these amazing wildlife photos.

Landscape Architect/Gardener
Everyone has neighbors with lawns that need tending or gardens that need pruning, so this is another hobby that can easily be turned into a side business. You can make anywhere from $10 to $100 per job, depending on the service. With just a little extra work you can end up with an extra $400 a month this summer. Black thumb? Turn it around with these gardening tips for beginners.

The 2010 winners of the Heart of Green Awards have found green twists on all sorts of careers.

Full-Time Careers
If you like these summer ideas, then you may want to consider a full-time career that will keep you outdoors all year round. There are a growing number of "green jobs" that are worth considering.

Ecotourism
If you love to travel, this job will be a great fit. People in the ecotourism field make around $20,000 to $25,000 a year, and you will most likely need to get a travel agent license to go along with your ecotourism degree. Check out the American Society of Travel Agents for information on classes and job boards. Just remember, not all travel agents get to travel, so you may have to find your niche. Classes range from $200 to $10,000, depending on how advanced the course is. If you are looking to become a full-time traveler, you'll likely need a year-long course. Don't miss seeing these endangered destinations while you still can.

Arborist
Tree trimming, pruning, and landscaping jobs are expected to grow by more than 26% over the next ten years. This is a good option for students looking for part-time jobs or entrepreneurs who want to work with their hands outdoors. Arborists can make more than $20 an hour, can work for themselves or others, and don't need a degree. There are few jobs that allow for such flexibility. If you want more information on this field check out the Arbor Day Foundation. Get a look at Michelle Obama's White House garden.

Park Ranger
Nothing is more awe-inspiring than our national parks. From the Black Hills to the Grand Canyon, these magnificent sites are seen by millions of visitors each year. In order to keep order and cleanliness in these landmarks, hundreds of workers, including park rangers, are needed. Rangers make an average of $58,000 a year, with a starting salary of $30,000. The field is expected to grow around 12% over the next ten years. You will need a degree in park management, an environmental field or a similar subject. If you want more information check with the National Park Service. Try one of these great parks that are often overlooked.

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