When it comes to workamping jobs most people think of camp hosts and RV park attendees. But did you know there are many offbeat and non-traditional workamping jobs available for adventurous spirits?
Volunteering as a fish hatchery workamper.
Throughout my travels I’ve encountered some jobs and volunteer positions that most aspiring and active workampers usually don’t consider. The photo above was taken when I tagged salmon at a federal Oregon hatchery. Keep reading to check out some of these non-traditional workamping jobs, listed in order of least physically demanding situations to ones that require brawn and muscle.
Fish and Wildlife Service Volunteer Workamper
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service always needs volunteers to help out at wildlife refuges around the country. From tagging fish at salmon hatcheries in the northwest, to camp hosting at refuge campgrounds, volunteers have a number of different opportunities to help out. You’ll personally benefit by saving on rent and enjoying some of the best scenery in the country.
Animal Rescue Helper
If you love animals consider applying to volunteer at animal rescue organizations that own property and hire workampers. Animal rescue organizations that house critters always need extra help with caring for animals, odd jobs like carpentry and general maintenance. Although you won’t earn a dime, you’ll get a free campsite and your heart will be filled with happiness knowing that you helped make a difference for animals.
Volunteering at an animal rescue organization in the Carolinas gave me a reality check on the ins and outs of running a rescue. The work was hard and sometimes heartbreaking. Still, it was nice to know that my husband and I were giving at least some of the millions of neglected animals in this country the love and respect they deserve.
Amazon Camperforce Employee
If you’ve ever wondered how your Amazon packages make it from the factory to you, this is your chance to find out. Consider applying for a physically demanding but financially rewarding seasonal job at an Amazon Fulfillment Center.
You’ll work harder than you ever have in your life as a Camperforce employee. But as long as the economy is doing well and people are shopping, you’ll reap the rewards. Amazon Camperforce employees work during the holiday season and can make about $75 a day after taxes, with perks like free rent depending on the location.
If you’re not physically fit or willing to work in a factory environment, don’t bother applying: the work is monotonous and as unrewarding as assembly line jobs get. But if you want to earn money quickly, it’s a great way to do it. The downside? You’ll miss the entire holiday season with family and friends.
Sugar Beet Harvest Worker
Unlike the volunteer opportunities with government organizations and animal rescue groups, you can earn real cash – and lots of it – when you take a short term job during the annual sugar beet harvest. According to SugarBeetHarvest.com, “Sugar Beet Employees can make up to $2,000 in a two week time frame.”
Once you point your rig north to the Dakotas and Minnesota to apply as an on-site sugar beet harvest worker (online applications are not accepted), you’ll quickly see why the sugar beet harvest jobs pay so well. From lifting heavy objects in sub-zero temperatures to grueling, long workdays on an assembly line, few people like the Scholls have what it takes to do this kind of work. Those who do can earn enough money to take the rest of winter off and recuperate!
Non-Traditional Workamping Jobs Resources
The best way to find out more about jobs like these is to join Workamper News, the oldest and most comprehensive resource for aspiring and current workampers. The staff at Workamper News will give you all the tools and information you need to make the best workamping job choice for your situation. I joined over eight years ago and my membership has been worth every penny.
Have you tried non-traditional workamping jobs? Share your experience in the comments below, we’d love to hear how it went.
Rene Agredano and her husband, Jim Nelson, became full-time RVers in 2007 and have been touring the country ever since. In her blog, Rene chronicles the ins and outs of the full-timing life and brings readers along to meet the fascinating people and amazing places they visit on the road. Her road trip adventures are chronicled in her blog at LiveWorkDream.com.
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