How to become a park naturalist

Is becoming a park naturalist right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do park naturalists do?
Career Satisfaction
Are park naturalists happy with their careers?
Personality
What are park naturalists like?

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How to become a Park Naturalist

Becoming a park naturalist involves a mix of education, experience, and a strong interest in nature and environmental education. Here are the common steps to enter this career:

  • Earn a Relevant Degree: Most park naturalists have a degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, forestry, or a related field. Courses in education, communication, or outdoor recreation can also be helpful.
  • Gain Hands-On Experience: Volunteering or working in parks, nature centers, or environmental programs helps build the skills needed for the job. Internships, seasonal work, or roles like camp counselor or tour guide are great ways to start.
  • Develop Outdoor and Communication Skills: Strong public speaking, leadership, and outdoor skills are important for guiding groups, teaching visitors, and working safely in nature.
  • Get Certified if Needed: Some jobs may ask for certifications in first aid, CPR, or environmental education. Programs like Project WILD or those offered by interpretation associations can boost your qualifications.
  • Apply for Entry-Level Roles: Look for jobs such as naturalist assistant, park aide, or environmental educator. These positions offer valuable experience and can lead to more advanced roles over time.

Certifications
There are several certifications that can help park naturalists improve their skills and stand out when applying for jobs. These programs focus on safety, education, and environmental knowledge.

  • First Aid and CPR: Basic certifications in first aid and CPR are often required, especially when working with groups in outdoor settings.
  • Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG): Offered by the National Association for Interpretation, this certification trains naturalists to deliver engaging, educational programs for the public.
  • Project WILD: This program provides training and resources for teaching wildlife and conservation topics, especially to children and school groups.
  • Leave No Trace (LNT): Certification in Leave No Trace principles helps naturalists teach visitors how to enjoy nature responsibly and protect the environment.
  • Environmental Education Certifications: Some states and organizations offer certificates in environmental education that focus on curriculum development, teaching methods, and outdoor instruction.
  • Wilderness First Aid: For those working in remote areas, wilderness first aid training provides the skills needed to handle emergencies when help is far away.