Park Naturalist

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  Career Profile

Park Naturalist

What they do

Plan, develop, and conduct programs to inform public of historical, natural, and scientific features of national, state, or local park.

Also Called: Environmental Education Specialist, Environmental Educator, Interpretive Naturalist, Natural Resource Educator, Naturalist, Park Activities Coordinator, Park Guide, Park Interpretive Specialist, Park Naturalist, Park Ranger, Environmental Education Specialist, Environmental Educator, Interpretive Naturalist, Natural Resource Educator, Naturalist, Park Activities Coordinator, Park Guide, Park Interpretive Specialist, Park Naturalist, Park Ranger

$42,850
Starting Salary (2023)
$68,750
Median Salary (2023)
4.1%
Projected Job Growth
22,790
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Provide visitor services, such as explaining regulations, answering visitor requests, needs and complaints, and providing information about the park and surrounding areas.
Plan and organize public events at the park.
Confer with park staff to determine subjects and schedules for park programs.
Assist with operations of general facilities, such as visitor centers.
Conduct field trips to point out scientific, historic, and natural features of parks, forests, historic sites, or other attractions.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Social
Working with people
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Self-Control
Cooperation
Concern for Others
Dependability
Social Orientation

What key skills are needed for this job?

Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Social Perceptiveness
Critical Thinking

Expected Knowledge

Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

More Info

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