Individuals that pursue a career in Parks and Recreation tend to display the SOCIAL Occupational Personality Type.  

Parks provide a number of benefits, connect people to the natural environment and allow people to enjoy the outdoors. A career in parks and recreation offers many job opportunities. Whether you prefer an office or outdoor setting, there are positions in administration and the field. This career can be rewarding for those who display the social occupational type because it provides a means of informing individuals of how they can help conserve the environment. People working in this career also have the opportunity to enhance visitor experiences and improve quality of life for others. One thing to consider when exploring careers in parks and recreation is whether you would like to be in an urban or rural setting. The duties and responsibilities of working in city parks as compared to state and national parks in rural landscapes can differ. 

Pathway 1: Park Ranger 

Park rangers are the protectors of the nation’s natural resources, wildlife areas and public lands in local, state and national parks. Park rangers support conservation efforts; enforce the law; create safe, fun and enriching environments for park visitors and educate the public.   

• Education: Typically need a minimum of an associate degree from an accredited college or university with a major in natural resources, ecology, parks and recreation, forestry, wildlife and fisheries or a related field.  
• Experience: Depending on the state and area of focus, a park ranger is required to receive academy training in one of more of the following areas: 

1. Law enforcement: Park rangers enforce municipal, state and federal park rules, regulations and laws. 
2. Interpretation and education: Park rangers provide informational services and welcome visitors at the visitor center, and create programs that encourage environmental stewardship and natural resource protection. 
3. Emergency response: Park rangers develop skills to assist in search and rescue, wilderness first aid, firefighting and other specialized areas related to sudden, unforeseen situations. 
4. Maintenance: Park rangers learn techniques to manage park facilities, grounds and recreational areas.

Pathway 2: Fish and Game Warden 

Fish and game wardens protect wildlife, enforce state codes and federal laws related to fishing, hunting and boating to prevent illegal activity and to ensure a safe, fun and enriching outdoor experience for the public. Fish and game wardens are skilled and highly trained peace officers who investigate and address criminal behavior related to fish and wildlife. They assist other law enforcement officers and animal control with search and rescue operations when non-domesticated animals wander into residential areas.   

• Education: Varies by state, but typically need a minimum of high school diploma or an associate degree in natural resources, criminal justice or a closely related field.  
• Experience:  Varies by state. Typically need full-time law enforcement or fishing, boating and/or hunting experience and/or attend a training academy. You cannot have any felony convictions.  
• Skills: Be physically fit. Some states require candidates to pass a physical fitness, vision, and hearing test. 

Pathway 3: Outdoor Educator

Outdoor educators teach people about the natural environment and lead excursions for adventure. They provide learning through exploring various ecosystems, reality and lived experiences. 

• Education: Typically need a minimum of a high school education or equivalent. 
• Experience:  Typically a minimum of two full years of related experience as a park guide; tour leader; naturalist; environmental educator or teacher or similar work.  
• Exam: May require CPR/First Aid certification.