Government Career Paths in Public Recreation
Charlie Fletcher is a freelance writer from the lovely “city of trees”- Boise, Idaho. Her love of writing pairs with her passion for social activism and search for the truth. When not writing she spends her time doodling and embroidering. And yes, she does love all kinds of potatoes!
When many people think of a government job, the idea of sitting behind a desk or wearing a suit and tie for eight hours a day comes to mind. But, there are so many paths you can take with a government career that have nothing to do with an office job, including opportunities in public recreation.
As someone in public recreation, you could be responsible for everything from conducting group or individual recreation activities to taking the needs and wants of members into account to beautify and improve our parks.
If you have a love of nature, people, and community, a career in public recreation could be a great fit. But, there are different paths to consider depending on the type of career you want. Many of these positions foster a positive impact on communities and the people involved. You can be a part of something larger than yourself with the right career path and choices.
Incorporating Your Interests
If you’re not sure whether you would be a good fit for a public recreation career, consider your passions and interests. If you have a desire for adventure and outdoor activities, there is no shortage of them in this particular area of government. Public recreation jobs can push you out of your comfort zone, offer opportunities for personal improvement, and so much more. You’ll also learn more about your surroundings, which can impact your behaviors when it comes to sustainability and preservation.
Working in green spaces can also improve your overall well-being. So much research has promoted the benefits of spending time in nature. From a mental health standpoint, spending time outdoors can reduce stress, boost energy, and improve cognitive function. Physically, you’re likely to experience more movement and a more active lifestyle.
So, whether you already have a love of nature or you’re interested in making a change and taking advantage of the benefits of the great outdoors, immersing yourself in a public recreation career can provide a feeling of fulfillment while improving your health and wellness.
Knowing Which Path to Take
There are multiple career opportunities to consider under the umbrella of public recreation. First, consider the type of career you might enjoy. Some of the most common public recreation jobs include:
- Agency Director;
- Planning Director;
- Adventure Guide;
- Tour Guide;
- Naturalist;
- Park Ranger.
Depending on the job you’re interested in, you might need different types of degrees. If you want to pursue a degree in the public recreation field, possible majors might include Park and Resource Management, Nonprofit Leadership, Recreation and Park Administration, or Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management.
Of course, there are also entry-level positions that don’t always require a degree. Use specific government websites to create profiles for yourself. These sites have job searches that allow you to filter different career options based on your needs, or even the types of education and certification required.
If you have a love of nature, people, and community, a career in public recreation could be a great fit.
CHARLIE FLETCHER
One of the great things about many public recreation jobs is that there is room for growth. You might not necessarily need a college degree to get your foot in the door and build a long, successful career from the ground up based on your skills and willingness to learn as you go. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the public recreation industry is expected to grow exponentially over the next ten years – 5% from 2022-2032. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, no matter your educational background. You might be surprised by how quickly you’ll grow.
Going the Extra Mile
A career in public recreation can be incredibly fulfilling, and there’s plenty of room for growth. Whether you’ve obtained a degree or not, certain certifications can improve your skills and potentially have an impact on community wellness.
For example, you might be spending a lot of time working with the public. It can be helpful to be CPR-certified in case of emergencies. This kind of preparedness has multiple benefits, including:
- It strengthens your resume;
- It could help save a life;
- You’ll set a positive example in your community;
- You’ll be prepared for disaster;
- It’s a confidence-builder.
If you want to be a park ranger, CPR certification is often required. You might also give your resume a boost by taking first aid classes. Any type of certification you can acquire that will help you be prepared for any situation when you’re around people all day will help you stand out and boost your self-esteem and confidence in your job.
Remember, working in public recreation means you’ll be doing a service. Continuously educating yourself, staying on top of trends, and navigating community programs will help to ensure you’re offering the public the very best of what your job description has to offer. Even if you’ve never considered a career in public recreation before, it could be the right fit if you’re interested in government work and have an affection for the great outdoors.
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