Also called: Alaska Bear-Viewing Guide, Brown Bear Tour Guide
Leads small groups of tourists, often flown in by floatplane, to watch wild brown bears catch salmon at close but safe distances in Alaska.
At 8 a.m. his group lands on a lake in a floatplane. He briefs them on staying together, then walks them along a beach to a spot where eight brown bears are fishing in a river 50 yards away. He reads each bear's mood, keeps the group calm when a mother and cubs pass by, and has everyone back to the plane by 3 p.m.
Seasonal (about June to September); figures show full-year equivalent pay.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 2 years after high school. No degree; years of bear country experience, wilderness first aid and company training; some areas require permits.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Certification. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Wildlife Biology, Outdoor Recreation, Environmental Science.
Growing about average. Tied to Alaska tourism; strong demand for summer trips.
Low risk for 10 years. Reading wild bear behavior and keeping guests safe in the field stays entirely human.
Classes: Biology, Environmental science, Physical education.
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