Park naturalists educate the public about natural environments, wildlife, and conservation. You'll lead tours, create programs, and communicate directly with visitors. The work is outdoors and community-focused, and it requires a bachelor's degree.
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Park naturalists teach visitors about ecosystems, plants, animals, and environmental protection. You lead guided walks, develop educational programs, and speak to groups of all ages. You work directly with the public, answer questions, and build relationships with your community. You also communicate with colleagues and supervisors, use computers for planning and documentation, and think creatively about how to make nature engaging. Your work combines public speaking, active listening, and a solid grasp of biology and public safety.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Park Naturalists earn a median of $73,010 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 2,500 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree to enter this field. Your studies should focus on biology, environmental science, or a related natural science. During your education, develop strong communication skills through writing and speaking coursework. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work in parks, nature centers, or conservation organizations. These experiences help you build a portfolio and understand what the day-to-day work involves. Your preparation should emphasize both scientific knowledge and the ability to teach others.
Most park naturalists earn a bachelor's degree in a natural science field. The path is straightforward but requires time and focus, so if you're deciding how to structure your education, Pathly can map the park naturalist path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to make sure the timeline fits your goals.
You do not need a license to work as a park naturalist, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to working with people, sharing knowledge, and making a difference in how others understand the natural world. This career suits people who are social, enjoy teaching, and want their work to matter.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).