Being connected to nature has been proven to have many benefits for both our mental and physical wellbeing. If you love being outdoors, you might want to consider a career that would allow you to spend more time in nature.
While many people think they need to become a wildlife biologist or park ranger to have a nature-based career, many other options are available. From environmental scientists to agricultural workers, plenty of jobs will bring you close to nature. So if you’re looking for a career that will keep you connected to the natural world, read on for some great options.
Environmental Scientist
One of the great things about being an environmental scientist is working closely with nature. If you love being outdoors and are interested in helping to protect the environment, this could be the perfect career for you.
As an environmental scientist, you would be responsible for studying the effects of human activity on the natural world. This could involve conducting field research, monitoring pollution levels, or developing conservation plans. You would also need to be able to communicate your findings to policy-makers and the general public. While the job can be challenging, it is also very rewarding. And, of course, you would get to spend a lot of time in some of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study the relationships between plants and animals and their environment. They may study a particular species of plant or animal, or they may explore an entire ecosystem. Their goal is to learn how we can protect and conserve our natural resources. Wildlife biologists often work in national parks, zoos, wildlife refuges, and other nature preserves.
They may also work for state or federal agencies responsible for environmental protection. In addition to fieldwork, wildlife biologists also spend time in laboratories conducting research and writing reports. If you love spending time outdoors and want to help protect our planet, a career as a wildlife biologist might be the perfect choice for you.
Arborists
Arborists are tree care professionals who provide services, from tree pruning and removal to planting health care. While the job can be physically demanding, it is also gratifying. After all, what could be better than spending your days working outdoors in some of the most beautiful places on earth?
Arborists also play an essential role in protecting the environment. By helping to keep trees healthy and free of disease, they help ensure that our forests will continue to thrive for generations to come. If you love nature and are looking for a career that will allow you to work closely with the natural world, becoming an arborist may be perfect.
Agricultural Worker
Agricultural workers are responsible for the day-to-day care of crops and animals on farms and ranches. They typically work outdoors in all weather conditions, so they must be willing to get dirty and work long hours. Agricultural workers often perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy objects, bending, and stooping.
Some workers operate machinery, such as tractors, while others may work with their hands to plant seeds or harvest crops. Although most agricultural workers are employed seasonally, some jobs are available year-round. With experience, agricultural workers may advance to supervisory positions or become farm managers.
Forestry Worker
Forests are important ecosystems that provide various benefits for both people and wildlife. Forestry workers play a vital role in maintaining these ecosystems by planting trees, thinning forests, and conducting controlled burns. In addition to being physically demanding, this job requires a strong knowledge of ecology and forest management practices.
However, it can be a very rewarding career for those who love the outdoors and working with their hands. forestry workers typically work for state or federal agencies, but there are also many opportunities for private contractors. No matter where you work, you’ll be close to nature and have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to protect one of our most critical natural resources.
Eco-tourism guide
If you love spending time outdoors and enjoy sharing your knowledge of nature with others, working as an eco-tourism guide might be the perfect career. Eco-tourism guides lead groups of visitors on tours of natural areas, such as national parks, forests, and gardens. They help their clients to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and understand the importance of conservation.
To be successful in this role, you need to have a deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna and the ability to communicate your passion for nature to others. If you are patient, outgoing, and physically fit, then a career as an eco-tourism guide could be perfect.
The bottom line
If you have a heart for nature, then you don’t have to limit your career options to traditional environmental jobs, such as working for a park or forestry service. With a bit of creativity, you can find a career that will allow you to work closely with the natural world and make a difference in how we interact with our environment.
