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Research & DevelopmentGrowingBright Outlook

Park Naturalist

Mid-level

Also known as: Camp Ranger, Environmental Education Specialist, Environmental Educator, Interpretation Park Ranger

Research & DevelopmentBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Park Naturalist, you plan and lead educational programs about the natural, historical, and scientific features of a park. You'll guide tours, give presentations, and develop engaging materials for visitors, working with both individuals and teams. Your days will blend time indoors planning and communicating via email, with significant time outdoors leading activities in all weather conditions. This role is ideal if you're passionate about nature, enjoy public speaking, and excel at teaching and active listening.
Environmental EducationNatural SciencesConservationEcologyPark ManagementEducationSciencePublic SpeakingResearchSTEM

A Day in the Life

You arrive at Pine Ridge State Park's visitor center just as the sun peeks over the eastern hills. The crisp morning air carries the scent of pine. You head straight to your office nook, open your laptop, and check Outlook for new emails and your calendar. Today starts with a "Morning Bird Walk" at 8:30 AM, so you quickly review your notes, grab your binoculars, and double-check your Sibley Guide. You also confirm the trail conditions using the park's internal GIS map on your tablet before heading out to the trailhead.

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies
Adobe AcrobatFacebookMicrosoft Active Server Pages ASPMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Word
In-demand software
Microsoft Office software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Bright Outlook

O*NET flags this career as a Bright Outlook occupation: grows rapidly over the next decade.

Projected growth

+5.3%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

2,100

per year (US)

Jobs today

27,700

in 2025 → 29,200 (2035)

Typical entry education

Bachelor's degree

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
Moderate
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
High
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Growing Job Market

This career is growing, with about 2,100 openings each year through 2035. You can expect a median annual wage of around $73,010. With experience, you might advance to roles like Senior Park Naturalist or an Environmental Programs Coordinator, leading larger initiatives.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Environmental Education Assistant
  • Nature Camp Counselor
  • Park Ranger Volunteer

Where it can lead

  • Senior Park Naturalist
  • Environmental Programs Coordinator
  • Park Superintendent

Impact of AI on this Job

AI could assist Park Naturalists by analyzing ecological data, generating initial drafts for educational content, or personalizing visitor information. While AI might streamline research and administrative tasks, the core human element of interpretive communication, direct public engagement, and fostering a connection with nature will remain indispensable. AI will likely serve as a powerful tool to enhance efficiency rather than replace the role.

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Salary

$73,010

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position

Relevant Studies

Based on job level & field

Environmental Studies

Bachelor • Nature & Environment • 4 years

Environmental Biology

Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years

Wildlife Biology

Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years

Zoology/Animal Biology

Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years

Natural Sciences

Bachelor • Social Sciences • 4 years

Range Science and Management

Bachelor • Nature & Environment • 4 years

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