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Park Naturalist

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AVG. SALARY

$68,170

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What They Do

Park Naturalists Career Video

About This Career

Plans, develops, and conducts programs to inform public of historical, natural, and scientific features of national, state, or local park.

This career is part of the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources cluster Natural Resource Systems pathway.

A person in this career:

  • Conducts field trips to point out scientific, historic, and natural features of parks, forests, historic sites, or other attractions.
  • Prepares and presents illustrated lectures and interpretive talks about park features.
  • Plans and organizes public events at the park.
  • Provides visitor services, such as explaining regulations, answering visitor requests, needs and complaints, and providing information about the park and surrounding areas.
  • Develops environmental educational programs and curricula for schools.
  • Researches stories regarding the area's natural history or environment.
  • Performs emergency duties to protect human life, government property, and natural features of park.
  • Confers with park staff to determine subjects and schedules for park programs.
  • Assists with operations of general facilities, such as visitor centers.
  • Plans and develops audio-visual devices for public programs.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

People who do this job report that:

  • You would often handle loads up to 20 lbs., sometimes up to 50 lbs. You might do a lot of lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling.
  • Conditions are very hot (above 90 F) or very cold (under 32 F)
  • Work in this occupation requires being outside most of the time

Working in this career involves (physical activities):

  • Seeing clearly at a distance
  • Seeing clearly up close
  • Speaking clearly enough to be able to be understood by others
  • Identifying and understanding the speech of another person

Work Hours and Travel

  • Weekend work

Specialty and Similar Careers

Careers that are more detailed or close to this career:

  • Environmental Education Specialist
  • Environmental Educator
  • Interpretive Naturalist
  • Naturalist
  • Park Activities Coordinator
  • Park Interpretive Specialist
  • Park Ranger — Supervises, manages and performs work in the conservation and use of resources in national parks and other federally-managed areas.
  • Program Production Specialist