Question 1

What are the best outdoor jobs in Idaho?

Accepted Answer

Idaho's premier outdoor jobs include ski patrol and resort operations at Sun Valley and other resorts, wilderness rangers in the Frank Church and Sawtooth Wilderness areas, whitewater rafting guides on the Salmon and Payette Rivers, backcountry outfitters and guides, wildlife technicians with Idaho Fish & Game, trail crew positions with the Forest Service, conservation corps members, backcountry lodge staff, and environmental educators throughout the state's diverse ecosystems.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Many Idaho outdoor positions require specific certifications. Ski patrol needs PSIA/AASI and avalanche training. Whitewater guides require swift water rescue certification and Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Backcountry guides need WFR and appropriate wilderness skills certifications. Outfitters need Idaho Outfitter licenses for commercial operations. Wildlife positions may require handling permits. Hunting and fishing guides need appropriate state licenses. Some positions require commercial driver's licenses for remote area operations.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Idaho's outdoor job market has strong seasonal patterns. Winter (December-April) is peak for ski resorts, with hiring starting in September-October. Summer (June-September) sees highest demand for wilderness guiding, rafting, backcountry lodges, and conservation work, with hiring beginning in February-March. Spring and fall offer shoulder season opportunities in conservation and trail work. Remote positions often require multi-month commitments due to access limitations.

Question 4

What is the cost of living like in Idaho?

Accepted Answer

Idaho offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to neighboring mountain states, though areas like Sun Valley and Ketchum are expensive. Boise has seen significant growth but remains moderate with rents averaging $900-$1,500/month. Many remote outdoor jobs provide housing, especially wilderness positions and backcountry lodges. Rural Idaho offers very affordable living. No state sales tax on groceries is a benefit. The outdoor job market often emphasizes lifestyle and wilderness access over maximum salaries.

Question 5

What are the top locations for outdoor jobs in Idaho?

Accepted Answer

Top locations include Sun Valley/Ketchum (ski resort and mountain recreation), Stanley (gateway to Sawtooth Wilderness), McCall (year-round mountain town), Boise (growing outdoor industry hub), Riggins (whitewater rafting center), Salmon (wilderness gateway), Sandpoint (Schweitzer ski area), and the Frank Church Wilderness region (most remote backcountry opportunities in the Lower 48).

Outdoor Jobs in Idaho

Active Outdoor Jobs

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Job Search Results

Assistant Gear Manager

Staff Housing Cleaner

Head Housekeeper

Adventure Activities Facilitator

Bennett Preschool Assistant Teacher

Rocks & Ropes Facilitator

Housekeeping Staff

Food Service Staff

Elevate Gap Program (Spring 2026)

Individual Placement - Wildlife Field Lead at the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests

Individual Placement - Wildlife Field Tech at the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests

Retail Used Firearms Outfitter

Regional Sales Manager

ID Range & Wildlife Biologist II/III

Whitewater Raft Guide - Return

Sales Outfitter - Footwear

Retail Manager - CLUB Membership

Outdoor Careers in Idaho

Top Outdoor Industries

Major Employers

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Jobs in Idaho

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