Despite the fact that nature tends to have a calming effect on humans, there are people who can’t think of anything worse than spending their time outdoors getting eaten alive by bugs and subjecting themselves to the elements. Luckily, there are plenty of cubicles just waiting for such individuals in all kinds of corporate offices across the globe. But most people would much rather spend the day with the sun on their face, the wind in their hair, and the sights and sounds of the pristine natural world all around them. For those that love the wild and untamed world beyond their front door, there are all manner of occupations. And here are a few of the best to pursue if a career spent working in the wilderness sounds appealing.
- Wild animal rescue. Some people prefer to enter the veterinary profession in the service of the many domesticated animals (large and small) that people choose to call pets. But for those that feel a particular kinship with the wilder side of the animal kingdom a career in wild animal rescue and care may be a better option. When animals come in contact with humanity (as they frequently do) there’s always a chance that damage will ensue, and these animals may need humans to help them recover from human harm. Devoted rescuers and rehabilitators are one possible solution.
- Park ranger. If your dream is to preserve and protect parklands from people (as well as protect people from the natural inhabitants of national, state, or local parks) then you may want to look into becoming a park ranger. There are a few ways you can specialize. For example, you might educate visitors, guide tours, perform scientific research (within the park setting), fight fires, enforce laws, or operate administrative offices that oversee one or more parks. But more likely than not you will wear several hats as a park ranger, which should serve to keep your job interesting.
- Marine biologist. This scientific profession covers a wide range of possibilities when it comes to day-to-day operations because, let’s face it: the ocean is huge! In addition, many parts of the ocean are still undiscovered, including areas and animals that are simply beyond the reach of current technology. So in addition to getting the chance to work with all manner of marine life, you could end up at the forefront of new discoveries as technology continues to improve.
- Wildlife conservationist. Some people join PETA or Greenpeace as a way to protect the animals and ecosystems that help to make our planet beautiful. As a wildlife conservationist you might defend environmental laws (and lobby for new ones), work to protect and rehabilitate ailing ecosystems (including animal and plant life), find ways to advance the movement towards greener living, or simply strive to educate the masses about the effects of pollution and waste. All will allow you to pursue your conservation agenda.
- Anything related to eco-tourism. More and more people are looking for ways to go green in every aspect of their life, travel included. And it takes more than a street magician waving his magic wand to reduce the harm that comes from your average vacation. So think about gaining employment with one of the many companies or organizations that are currently moving forward on the eco-tourism front and you could find yourself meeting your goals to help both people and the environment.