Park Naturalists
Park naturalists create and lead educational programs that explain the history, natural resources, and scientific aspects of parks to visitors. They work for national, state, and local park systems, developing exhibits, guided tours, and interpretive materials. The role combines public education with outdoor management.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against park naturalists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A park naturalist might spend a morning preparing a guided hike by reviewing trail conditions and wildlife sightings, then lead groups through the park while explaining ecosystems or geological formations. Afternoons often involve updating interpretive signs, researching historical facts about the park, or designing new educational content. Tasks vary seasonally—summer brings more public programs, while winter may focus on planning next season's activities and maintaining facilities.
Who this work suits
Holland code SRI. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're drawn to this work if you enjoy direct interaction with diverse audiences and prefer outdoor, hands-on activity over desk work. You combine strong communication skills with genuine interest in natural or historical subjects, and you're comfortable managing both educational programming and the practical work of maintaining park spaces.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $77,060 | $99,400 | $119,100 | 110 |
| Colorado | $67,770 | $84,820 | $108,540 | 1,230 |
| Maryland | $66,850 | $83,290 | $107,520 | 470 |
| Idaho | $61,110 | $81,330 | $86,260 | 300 |
| Wyoming | $63,810 | $81,310 | $91,170 | 150 |
| Oregon | $70,450 | $80,790 | $104,690 | 1,020 |
| Louisiana | $49,990 | $80,190 | $106,330 | 190 |
| California | $64,310 | $79,810 | $104,990 | 2,110 |
| Wisconsin | $63,130 | $79,540 | $93,200 | 970 |
| Alaska | $66,080 | $79,260 | $103,110 | 290 |
| Utah | $63,490 | $78,850 | $100,420 | 410 |
| Massachusetts | $65,210 | $78,740 | $92,060 | 760 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Erosion, Sediment and Storm Water Inspector (CESSWI) — EnviroCert International, Inc.
- Certified Range Management Consultant (CRMC) — Society for Range Management
- Certified Forage and Grassland Apprentice (CFGA) — American Forage and Grassland Council
- Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) — EnviroCert International, Inc.
- Certified Forage and Grassland Professional (CFGP) — American Forage and Grassland Council
- Soils Special Inspector — International Code Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against park naturalists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1031.03 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.