Park Naturalists
Life, Physical, and Social Science
Explains park rules and answers visitor questions at centers and on the grounds, then leads field trips that point out plants, landforms, historic sites, and other features. Days also go to planning public events, preparing illustrated talks, and lining up program topics and schedules with other park staff. Some time is spent indoors at the visitor center; other days are on trails or at outdoor attractions. The role can include directing seasonal workers and stepping in during emergencies to protect people, park property, and natural features. Suits people who like explaining science and history to mixed audiences and splitting time between talking with visitors and walking the grounds.
Typical education: Bachelor’s Degree (4-year)
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$73'010
Median Wage Market Position
$73'010
What you might do
- Explain park rules and answer visitor questions
- Lead field trips to natural and historic sites
- Prepare talks about plants, wildlife, and history
- Plan public events with other park staff
- Help keep the visitor center and facilities running
- Direct seasonal staff and handle park emergencies
Skills that matter
- Visitor help with rules, requests, and complaints
- Guided walks that point out park features
- Illustrated lectures on natural and historic sites
- Event planning with other park staff
- Direction of seasonal visitor-center staff
- Emergency response to protect people and the park
AI & the future of this role
Scripted facts and digital exhibits could cover more basic content delivery. Live programs, visitor rapport, and adapting talks to a real audience still depend on in-person presence and communication skill.
Does Park Naturalists fit your values?
Take the free LostInCareer assessment to see personalized matches based on your core values—not just a personality label.
Related careers
Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details