Environmental education aims to educate the public about nature and environmental issues. While it's usually geared toward primary school or high school students, some environmental educators work with members of the public. An environmental educator works with schools, nature reserves, nonprofits and other groups to raise awareness of environmental issues, and let people know what they can do to live sustainability.
Environmental educators give talks to schools and other groups about nature and environmental issues. Some are employed by nature reserves, where they lead outdoor walks and answer questions. Some also teach through "immersion" during outdoor field trips. Some of these immersion programs are designed for inner city or underprivileged children. Environmental educators plan such events, activities, and programs to educate the next generation about environmental issues and how they can help. Program planning involves developing the curricula, schedule, and other logistics. It also involves promoting and publicizing programs. For example, environmental educators may create Web pages, newsletters, and fliers promoting programs and resources. They may also need to participate in fundraising activities and budgeting. Some need to collect and analyze data to assess program success. They report results to managers and funding organizations. Those in managerial positions may be involved in organizational strategy and planning. Some environmental educators supervise volunteers. They may also need to drive to various locations to give talks or attend events.
Many environmental educators are employed by nonprofit organizations such as the National Audubon Society. Some work for zoos, aquariums, and arboretums. Some are employed by national and state parks as park rangers. While there are many jobs for environmental educators at summer camps, these are seasonal positions available only during the summer months. A few environmental educators work for local government in recreation and leisure or education. There are also some jobs with private employers, such as arboretums. Environmental educators may also be employed by oil companies, utility companies, and companies in other industries that have a large impact on the environment, where corporations are interested in social responsibility.
FIND SCHOOLS Sponsored ContentEnvironmental educators, who fall under the broader BLS category of health education specialists and community workers, earned a median salary of $42,000 as of May 2020.*
Senior Environmental Educators often have enhanced job responsibilities that include managing, budgeting and team collaboration. Such responsibilities often include:
According to the BLS, the job demand for health education specialists and community workers is projected to increase by 17 percent between 2020 and 2030. Due to the amount of interest in this career and limited opportunities, competition has traditionally been strong. Most jobs are with nonprofit organizations that have limited budgets. Jobs with summer camps are seasonal. Candidates who have gotten an early start with volunteering generally have an edge when paid positions become available.*
Aspiring environmental educators typically earn a bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental studies, geography, ecology, or a related area. Some jobs involving local travel may require an in-state driver's license. You can start gaining experience by volunteering for conservation organizations, parks, or summer camps.
Some states are now certifying environmental educators, and more are planning their own certification programs. Additionally, students interested in environmental education in public school settings may want to pursue teacher certification, which is required for public school teachers in all states. Certification requirements vary by state, but always require at least a bachelor's degree, completion of a teacher preparation program, and supervised teaching experience. Many require passing scores on a general teaching test, passing a background check, and continuing professional development.
FIND SCHOOLS Sponsored Content*2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for health education specialists and community health workers reflect national data not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2021.
