8 JOBS YOU CAN DO OUTDOORS

By Larry Buhl,

Spring has arrived, and with it comes longing glances from office windows as employees dream of a chance to work away from fluorescent lights and cubicle warrens. If you're considering a career change and want it to involve fresh air, here are eight occupations that can be done, at least partly, in the great outdoors.

1. Animal care worker: This job can be in a variety of settings, such as kennels, zoos, stables, animal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics and aquariums. The job can be physically demanding and the pay is generally low. Experience with animals is more important than a specific degree.

Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: Faster than average

Median pay: $19,780 annually, $9.51 hourly*

2. Archaeologist: Although some archeologists work in offices or laboratories, others spend time in the field on duties such as assessing the significance of a potential construction site. A master's degree or Ph.D. is required.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: Faster than average
Median pay: $54,230 annually, $26.07 hourly

3. Conservation scientist: Sometimes referred to as a forester, these professionals manage and monitor overall land quality of forests, parks and other natural resources. A bachelor's degree in botany or a related field is expected.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: Slower than average
Median pay: $57,420 annually, $27.60 hourly

4. Construction manager: These workers oversee construction projects through organization, scheduling, budgeting and implementation. A bachelor's degree and experience in a construction-related field, plus certification, are usually expected.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: About as fast as average
Median pay: $83,860 annually, $40.32 hourly

5. Environmental engineer: Environmental engineers spend much time indoors but can be in the field on construction projects. A bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field -- civil, mechanical or chemical engineering -- is required.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: Faster than average
Median pay: $78,740 annually, $37.86 hourly

6. Geological engineer: There are a variety of job titles associated with this profession, with duties involving surveying the characteristics of land for mining or other development sites. A bachelor's degree and a state license are required.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: About as fast as average
Median pay: $82,870 annually, $39.84 hourly

7. Landscape architect: This job is primarily done inside, but it can also involve frequent visits to job sites. A bachelor's degree and state certification are minimum requirements.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: About as fast as average
Median pay: $62,090 annually, $29.85 hourly

8. Surveyor: Many duties are conducted outdoors in various types of terrain. But surveyors also work indoors to prepare legal documents and other reports. A bachelor's degree is usually required, and surveyors are often licensed.
Projected job growth, 2010 to 2020: Faster than average
Median pay: $54,880 annually, $26.39 hourly



Source: careerbuilder