If you’re passionate about spending time outdoors and want to turn that into a rewarding career, many jobs in nature pay well. Whether you’re into wildlife, environmental conservation, or adventure, you can find a job that allows you to enjoy nature while earning a good income.
1. Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study animals and their habitats, observe wildlife behavior, and conduct research to help in conservation efforts. The job is suitable for anyone who is concerned about wildlife conservation and working in natural settings.
You will spend time outside in a variety of environments, including woods, marshes, and grasslands. With the growing demand for wildlife conservation, this role is becoming more important as people recognize the need to protect our natural world. This makes it one of the best jobs in nature that pays well.
A bachelor’s degree in biology or environmental science is usually necessary, while certain roles may accept applicants with comparable degrees or field experience. The average salary for a wildlife biologist in the U.S. is around $70,600 per year, though it can range from $45,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization.
2. Park Ranger
Park rangers are responsible for protecting and managing national parks and other public properties. They guide visitors, enforce park rules, and help preserve natural resources. This job is ideal for those who love the outdoors and want to be directly involved in preserving the beauty of natural landscapes.
You’ll spend your days working in national parks, forests, and other protected areas, ensuring that these spaces remain intact for future generations. As the public becomes more invested in environmental protection, park ranger roles are in high demand, making it one of the best outdoor jobs that pays well.
A degree in park management, environmental science, or a related field is often required, though some positions may offer opportunities for those with a high school diploma or associate’s degree. The average salary for a park ranger is typically $40,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
3. Forestry Technician
Forestry technicians assist with the management of forests by monitoring forest health, preventing wildfires, and ensuring sustainable harvesting. This hands-on job is ideal for anyone who enjoys working outside and wishes to contribute to environmental conservation.
You’ll be working in forests, national parks, and remote areas to manage and protect these natural resources. With increasing concerns about wildfires and forest management, this role is in high demand, making it one of the best jobs in nature that pay well.
Typically, an associate’s degree in forestry or environmental science is required. Forestry technicians earn an average salary ranging from $38,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience and the specific industry.
4. Environmental Consultant
Environmental experts examine how different initiatives may affect the environment. They assist businesses and organizations in complying with environmental legislation and developing strategies for reducing environmental harm. This role is ideal for someone who wants to combine environmental awareness with problem-solving.
You’ll often work outdoors, conducting site assessments and environmental evaluations. As businesses and governments increase their focus on sustainability, the demand for environmental consultants is growing, making it one of the outdoor jobs that pays well.
A degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related discipline is generally necessary. The salary for an environmental consultant typically ranges from $55,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience and industry.
5. Agricultural Manager
Agricultural managers oversee farming operations, ensuring that crops and livestock are efficiently managed while implementing sustainable practices. This position is ideal for someone who appreciates both nature and business management.
You’ll spend your time working outdoors on farms, ensuring that operations run smoothly while promoting sustainability. As the demand for sustainable farming practices increases, agricultural managers are in higher demand, making it one of the jobs in nature that pay well.
A bachelor’s degree in agriculture or business management is common, though experience in farming can also lead to management positions. Agricultural managers often earn between $70,000 and $100,000 per year, with the opportunity for higher pay depending on the size of the farm or company.
6. Geologist
Geologists study the Earth’s physical structure, minerals, and natural resources. They often work outdoors, conducting field research, studying land formations, and assessing environmental impacts. This position is suitable for someone who enjoys the outdoors and scientific exploration.
You’ll spend time exploring mountains, coastlines, and various other geological formations, gaining insight into the Earth’s processes. As businesses like as energy and mining expand, geologists are in high demand, making this one of the finest jobs for nature enthusiasts.
A bachelor’s degree in geology or earth sciences is usually required. Geologists can earn between $60,000 and $110,000 annually, with salaries reaching upwards of $130,000 in specific sectors like mining and oil.
7. Landscape Architect
Landscape architects create outdoor environments, including parks, gardens, and public areas. They plan and create functional, sustainable outdoor environments. This job combines creativity with a passion for nature and is ideal for those who want to improve the natural world.
You’ll work outdoors designing landscapes that enhance the environment while providing recreational or aesthetic value. As cities increasingly focus on green spaces, landscape architecture is one of the outdoor jobs that pay well.
Landscape architects must have a degree and often be licensed. Landscape architects earn between $65,000 and $85,000 per year, with potential for higher wages based on expertise and location.
8. Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study ocean ecosystems and marine life, researching how human activity impacts marine environments. This position is ideal for anyone interested about marine conservation and ocean ecosystems.
You’ll spend time in coastal areas studying marine life, conducting research, and contributing to conservation efforts. As the importance of marine conservation grows, this field is expanding, making marine biology one of the best jobs in nature that pay well.
A degree in marine biology or environmental science is necessary. Marine biologists typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000 per year, with the opportunity to earn more depending on research specialization and location.
9. Fishing Guide
Fishing guides lead fishing trips for clients, sharing knowledge of local waters and fishing techniques. They ensure that clients have an enjoyable and successful experience. This position is ideal for environmental enthusiasts who enjoy teaching others about outdoor activities.
You’ll spend your time on lakes, rivers, or oceans, helping others connect with nature through fishing. With the growing popularity of outdoor activities, fishing guides are in demand.
Though recognized as one of the jobs in nature without a degree, you still need to have extensive knowledge of local fishing areas and techniques. Fishing guides can earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with the potential to earn more in popular destinations or with high-end clients.
10. Solar Panel Installer
Solar panel installers work outdoors to set up solar energy systems in homes and businesses. They assist homeowners and businesses in reducing their environmental impact by transitioning to renewable energy. This job is ideal for anyone who wants to work with renewable energy while spending time outside.
You’ll work outdoors, installing solar panels on rooftops or in large installations, contributing to the shift toward renewable energy. As solar energy grows in popularity, this is one of the outdoor jobs that pays well.
While no degree is necessary, training and certification in solar panel installation are required. Solar panel installers earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, with higher earnings potential in large-scale projects.
11. Wind Turbine Technician
Wind turbine technicians install and maintain wind turbines, helping generate renewable energy. This job is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and want to contribute to green energy solutions.
You’ll work at wind farms, often in remote areas, ensuring turbines are functioning properly. Wind turbine technicians are in high demand as renewable energy becomes more prevalent, making this one of the most lucrative careers in nature.
Wind turbine technicians typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000 per year, with opportunities to earn more in specialized jobs or locations.
12. Climbing Arborist
Climbing arborists care for trees, particularly in urban areas, by trimming, pruning, and maintaining tree health. This physically demanding job is perfect for those who love working in nature and have a passion for tree care.
You’ll spend your time climbing trees and maintaining them to ensure their health and safety. With an increasing focus on urban greenery, climbing arborists are in demand, making this one of the best jobs for nature lovers.
No formal degree is required, but certification in arboriculture is necessary. Arborists earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $75,000.
In closing, more people are recognizing the importance of sustainability and environmental protection, which has led to a rise in jobs in nature that pay well. These careers allow you to work outdoors while making a positive impact on the environment.
As industries focus more on eco-friendly practices, the demand for these jobs continues to grow. By choosing a nature-focused career, you can align your passion for the outdoors with a fulfilling and stable job that also supports a sustainable future.