Park Naturalists
What is a Park Naturalist?
A Park Naturalist is a professional dedicated to the education and interpretation of natural and cultural resources in parks, nature reserves, and other natural settings. They serve as guides, educators, and advocates for the environment, working to increase public awareness and appreciation of nature through interpretive programs, tours, and educational activities. Park Naturalists often have a strong background in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field, allowing them to convey complex information about ecosystems, wildlife, plant species, and geological formations in an engaging and accessible manner. They play a crucial role in conserving natural areas by fostering a sense of stewardship among visitors and encouraging sustainable practices. Overall, Park Naturalists contribute to both the enjoyment of nature and the protection of the environment for future generations.
Tasks
- 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.
Technology Skills
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- MicroFocus GroupWise
- Microsoft Outlook
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Document management software
- Adobe Acrobat
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Desktop publishing software
- Adobe PageMaker
Tools Used
- Screwdrivers
- Recreational motorboats
- Shovels
- Theodolites
- Canoes or kayaks
Knowledge
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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.
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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.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Skills
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Social Perceptiveness
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Abilities
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Speech Recognition
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Associate's degree
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
Work Activities
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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.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Communicating with People Outside the Organization
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
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Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Detailed Work Activities
- Provide technical information or assistance to public.
- Plan special events.
- Train personnel to enhance job skills.
- Train staff members.
- Develop educational programs.
Work Interests
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Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$42850.0 - $105460.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.