Also called: Astronomy Ranger, Dark Sky Ranger
A park ranger who runs stargazing programs and protects dark skies at national and state parks.
You set up telescopes at sunset, guide visitors around the Milky Way with a green laser pointer, and answer questions about planets and constellations. During the day you measure light pollution and help the park switch to dark-sky-friendly lighting.
Many positions are seasonal; full-time federal ranger pay follows the GS scale.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in astronomy, physics, science education or park management; seasonal jobs may need less.
Ways in: 4-year college, On-the-job training. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Astronomy, Earth Science, Parks & Recreation Management.
Growing about average. Very few positions; Bryce Canyon, Great Basin and similar parks have them.
Low risk for 10 years. Guiding visitors under the stars and dark-sky programs are live, outdoor work.
Classes: Astronomy, Earth science, Speech.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1031.
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