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10 Best Jobs For People Who Love Nature

By Chris Kolmar
Jun. 20, 2023
Last Modified and Fact Checked on:

10 Best Jobs For Nature Enthusiasts in 2026

If you have a passion for nature and wish to work outdoors, this guide is for you.

In this article, we present a curated list of the top 10 jobs for nature lovers, along with insights into the benefits of working in natural environments.

Key Takeaways:

  • If you enjoy hands-on work outdoors and have a green thumb, a job that involves direct interaction with nature could be perfect for you.

  • Engaging with living ecosystems can be incredibly fulfilling, especially for those who prefer not to be confined to a desk.

  • Working in nature has been shown to reduce stress, enhance mental well-being, and boost physical health.

10 Best Jobs for People Who Love Nature

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Top 10 Careers in Nature

Explore these nature-focused professions along with the qualifications required for each role.

  1. Groundskeeper
    Average Annual Salary: $30,000

    If you want to work outdoors without leaving urban or suburban areas, consider becoming a groundskeeper. This role involves maintaining the aesthetics of properties through tasks such as weeding, mowing, and planting.

    As a groundskeeper, you’ll closely interact with plants and landscapes, making it a fulfilling career for nature enthusiasts.

    Qualifications: A college degree is not usually required, but prior landscaping experience is beneficial.

    2. Find Groundskeeper jobs near me

  2. Nature Photographer
    Average Annual Salary: $55,000

    As a nature photographer, you will immerse yourself in natural settings and capture their beauty. This role is ideal for those who prefer observing nature rather than altering it.

    Photographers can sell their work independently or contribute to publications focused on environmental topics.

    Qualifications: Experience with professional photography equipment is essential, and while a fine arts degree is helpful, relevant courses can also suffice.

    Find Nature photographer jobs near me

  3. Landscaper
    Average Annual Salary: $30,000

    Landscapers create and maintain gardens, parks, and outdoor spaces, focusing on aesthetics and sustainability. This role allows you to apply creativity while working hands-on with nature.

    Qualifications: Knowledge of plants and landscaping tools is important; many landscapers benefit from apprenticeships or trade certificates.

    Find Landscaper jobs near me

  4. Horticulturist
    Average Annual Salary: $40,000

    Horticulturists are plant scientists dedicated to improving plant growth and health. They collaborate with other professionals to ensure optimal cultivation practices.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in horticulture, biology, or a related field is typically required.

    Find Horticulturist jobs near me

  5. Park Ranger
    Average Annual Salary: $50,000

    Park rangers protect and manage natural parks, offering tours and educational programs to visitors. This role is perfect for those who enjoy spending their days outdoors.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, or a related field is often required, along with volunteer or internship experience.

    Find Park Ranger jobs near me

  6. Surveyor
    Average Annual Salary: $60,000

    Surveyors collect data on property boundaries, often working outdoors in various landscapes. This role is essential for construction and development projects.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in surveying or engineering is usually required, and state licensing is necessary.

    Find Surveyor jobs near me

  7. Environmental Engineer
    Average Annual Salary: $75,000

    Environmental engineers develop systems to protect natural resources, addressing issues like pollution and waste management.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in engineering is typically required, with many pursuing further education.

    Find Environmental Engineer jobs near me

  8. Botanist
    Average Annual Salary: $65,000

    Botanists study plants and their interactions within ecosystems. They often contribute to agricultural development and ecological research.

    Qualifications: A master’s degree in plant science or biology is generally needed, with advanced research positions requiring a doctoral degree.

    Find Botanist jobs near me

  9. Conservationist
    Average Annual Salary: $70,000

    Conservationists work to protect natural resources and wildlife, often engaging in policy-making or educational initiatives.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in ecology or environmental science is usually required.

    Find Conservationist jobs near me

  10. Recreation Manager
    Average Annual Salary: $50,000

    Recreation managers oversee outdoor programs and community events, facilitating public engagement with nature.

    Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in management or a related field is often required, with experience in community engagement being beneficial.

    Find Recreation Manager jobs near me

Benefits of Working in Nature

Engaging with nature can be beneficial for both physical and mental health. Research indicates that spending time outdoors can:

  • Reduce symptoms of depression

  • Lower stress levels

  • Enhance immune function

Humans thrive in natural environments rather than artificial settings. Making a career that allows you to work outdoors can significantly boost your overall well-being.

Jobs in Nature FAQ

  1. What are good jobs for people who like to be outside?

    Great jobs for outdoor enthusiasts include:

    • Groundskeeper

    • Nature photographer

    • Landscaper

    • Horticulturist

    • Park ranger

    • Surveyor

    • Environmental Engineer

    • Botanist

    • Conservationist

    • Recreation manager

  2. What is the happiest job in America?

    Currently, jobs in agriculture, forestry, and conservation report the highest levels of job satisfaction among workers. Many attribute this happiness to the opportunity to work outdoors in natural settings.

Final Thoughts

If you have a genuine passion for nature, numerous career opportunities can help you transform that love into a fulfilling profession.

Nature-centric jobs appeal particularly to those who prefer not to work in traditional office environments. Engaging with the outdoors can lead not only to a rewarding career but also to improved physical and mental health.

References

  1. Yale Environment 360 – Ecopsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health

  2. University of Minnesota – How Does Nature Impact Our Wellbeing?

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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