100 Career Ideas for Teenagers Find Joy in being in Nature

The rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, the whisper of wind against the trees – if these sounds evoke a sense of calm, joy, and nostalgia in you, it's quite clear: nature has always been your sanctuary. Many teenagers feel an intrinsic connection with the environment. Whether it was the hours spent playing in the mud, collecting leaves, or simply gazing at the stars, nature has a special place in your heart.
But as you step into the threshold of adulthood and career choices, how does this passion for nature translate? We're not suggesting you become a professional tree climber simply because you loved climbing them as a child. Instead, we encourage introspection. Was it the unpredictability of nature that you loved, or its rhythm and cycles? Did you relish in discovering new trails, or was it the peace and solace of a particular spot that attracted you?
By reflecting on these specifics, you can pinpoint what about nature brings you joy. For instance, if you loved the thrill of discovery, a career in environmental research or biodiversity might appeal to you. On the other hand, if it was the serene beauty and patterns, landscape architecture or environmental photography might be more your calling.
Remember, the goal isn't to replicate your childhood joys but to extract the essence of those experiences. In doing so, you open up a myriad of career possibilities that align with your core interests, allowing you to work in a field that you're genuinely passionate about.
his may not have been your only joy as a child; check out our full guide here for even more job ideas.
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Environmental Science & Conservation
- Environmental Scientist
- Conservation Biologist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Marine Biologist
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Outdoor Recreation
- Park Ranger
- Outdoor Adventure Guide
- Camp Director
- Whitewater Rafting Guide
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Animal Care & Research
- Zoologist
- Ornithologist (bird specialist)
- Wildlife Rehabilitator
- Animal Behaviorist
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Forestry & Plants
- Forester
- Arborist
- Botanist
- Horticulturist
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Environmental Advocacy & Education
- Environmental Educator
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Nonprofit Environmental Advocate
- Nature Center Educator
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Farming & Agriculture
- Organic Farmer
- Aquaculturist (fish farming)
- Agroforestry Specialist
- Sustainable Agriculture Consultant
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Research & Exploration
- Ecologist
- Field Researcher
- Geologist
- Oceanographer
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Outdoor Journalism & Media
- Nature Photographer
- Environmental Journalist
- Documentary Filmmaker (nature-focused)
- Travel Blogger (nature destinations)
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Wildlife Management & Game
- Game Warden
- Wildlife Manager
- Fish and Game Officer
- Wildlife Photographer
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Land & Water Management
- Land Surveyor
- Hydrologist
- Soil and Plant Scientist
- Wetlands Specialist
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Adventure Sports
- Rock Climbing Instructor
- Skiing/Snowboarding Instructor
- Scuba Diving Instructor
- Mountain Bike Tour Guide
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Fishing & Marine
- Commercial Fisherman
- Marine Conservationist
- Fisheries Manager
- Underwater Photographer
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Tourism & Travel
- Eco-tourism Operator
- Safari Guide
- Nature Tour Guide
- Cruise Ship Naturalist
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Gardening & Landscaping
- Landscape Designer
- Garden Center Operator
- Landscape Architect
- Ecological Land Planner
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Alternative Energy
- Wind Turbine Technician
- Solar Energy Installer
- Biofuel Researcher
- Hydroelectric Plant Operator
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Natural Health & Wellness
- Herbalist
- Wilderness Therapy Provider
- Nature Meditation Coach
- Eco-therapist
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Geography & Mapping
- Geospatial Analyst
- Cartographer
- Remote Sensing Specialist
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Technician
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Meteorology & Climate
- Meteorologist
- Climate Scientist
- Atmospheric Researcher
- Storm Chaser
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Environmental Restoration & Cleanup
- Habitat Restoration Specialist
- Ecological Engineer
- Brownfield Redevelopment Specialist
- Invasive Species Manager
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Environmental Design & Building
- Green Architect
- Sustainable Interior Designer
- Environmental Planner
- Green Infrastructure Developer