Park Naturalists
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Plan, develop, and conduct programs to inform public of historical, natural, and scientific features of national, state, or local park.
Median pay: $73,010/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +3.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 2,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Provide visitor services, such as explaining regulations, answering visitor requests, needs and complaints, and providing information about the park and surrounding areas.
• Assist with operations of general facilities, such as visitor centers.
• Confer with park staff to determine subjects and schedules for park programs.
• Conduct field trips to point out scientific, historic, and natural features of parks, forests, historic sites, or other attractions.
• Plan and organize public events at the park.
• Prepare and present illustrated lectures and interpretive talks about park features.
• Plan, organize and direct activities of seasonal staff members.
• Perform emergency duties to protect human life, government property, and natural features of park.
What's the median pay for Park Naturalists?
The median pay for Park Naturalists is $73,010 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Park Naturalists?
Employment for Park Naturalists is projected to change +3.4% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Park Naturalists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Park Naturalists?
About 2,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.