20 Dec 2020

If your worst nightmare involves fluorescent lights, a cubicle, and a stack of paperwork- don’t worry. You don’t have to sacrifice an active lifestyle for the pleasure of a paycheque.

If you crave an ever-changing day and an active work environment, consider one of these careers where you aren’t chained to a desk for 40 hours a week.

1. Firefighter

Aside from being absolute legends, firefighters keep the community and the environment safe. Who wouldn’t want that?!

But it’s not just about fighting fires and it definitely isn’t your typical 9-5. The work is varied, challenging but insanely rewarding! In addition to responding to emergencies, you could find yourself doing things like fire prevention and investigation, community education, and even attending fetes and community events.

You can’t apply to become a firefighter until you’re 21, however, even if you’re still too young there are a bunch of things you could (and should) be doing to get yourself ready for when the time comes. If you’re serious about becoming a firefighter, then you can work on things like your strength, endurance, balance, power, even claustrophobia. Moreover, get some life experience under ya belt!

Firefighters are needed more than ever to help and protect their community. ACT Fire & Rescue, are looking for intelligent, fit, skilled and community-minded people from all backgrounds who are looking for a unique challenge. If you want to learn more about the ins and outs of a career in firefighting, suss out more here.

2. Stunt Performer

If jumping off buildings or deliberately crashing cars sounds like your definition of a fun time, then performing stunts for film and television productions could soothe your need for an active and adrenaline pumping gig!

It’s certainly no office job and no two days are the same!

But, it’s a tricky line of work to get into, so you’ll wanna make sure you start building the right connections.

3. Personal Trainer

How about being paid to stay in shape? Provided, you need to help others do so too.

I mean, what better way to exercise on the job than to exercise as your job? Personal trainers deliver classes and one-to-one sessions at gyms all throughout the day. The 9-5 grind just doesn’t exist!

Remember that spin class you took this morning? Well, imagine taking it five times a day! I’m already exhausted.

4. Construction

A career in construction is the perfect way to bypass all the pitfalls that are associated with an office job.

In construction, your office changes with each project. So instead of spending the sunny hours of the day cooped up indoors, a construction job can give you the chance to get outside. You even get the opportunity to travel a fair bit!

On top of this, nothing compares to the satisfaction of being able to clock off at the end of the day and see all your hard work paid off.

5. Landscaping

If you’ve got a bit of a green thumb and would rather be surrounded by greenery than cubicle walls, then landscaping could for you.

Whether you care for private grounds, public properties or pristine golf greens, there are numerous opportunities that might just be your flavour.

As someone who has spent their Sunday pulling up weeds and planting potatoes I can tell ya, it’s thirsty work!

If you’re still a bit iffy when it comes to what to pursue, but ya know you’re passionate about being outdoors and active, suss out our Post-School Planner. With q’s that’ll dig deep into your interests, personality and talents, you’ll figure out a whole range of jobs that might just suit you.