Jonathan has had his share of dream jobs, and he keeps upping the ante. He has worked as a forest ranger, an environmental consultant, and is currently employed by the U.S. Navy teaching outdoor recreation. As a Park Ranger in Baxter State Park in northern Maine, he frequently trapped black bears and relocated them away from campgrounds. Jonathan loves to rock climb, paddle, and bird in the northeast. He is certified as a Wilderness First Responder and Leave No Trace Master Educator, and his career in the outdoors is fast approaching 20 years.

In His Own Words

The Job
"My current position of Assistant Director of Outdoor Adventure Program with the United States Navy involves establishing a stand-alone outdoor adventure program for Navy personnel stationed throughout the Northeast Region. Responsibilities include all aspects of trip planning, skills instruction, and staff supervision."

How He Got There
"The story began at the University of Maine in the early 80s. After completing my primary work in forestry management, I decided to add an outdoor component and graduated with a degree in Recreation and Park Management. I then participated in a Student Conservation Association internship with the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon. After that, I volunteered when possible with agencies such as the Nature Conservancy. Networking (until recently, I always thought I could do it by myself) has become a critical skill in my career development."

How to Get His Job
"Make as many contacts as possible. It really can make a dramatic difference. I firmly believe my current position came to me because I took the time to find out the people involved and made contact with them. Do not hesitate to do this! In a society that values sports figures higher than teachers or park rangers, I suggest you find a natural resource agency and make an honest effort to help change the ways some things are done as in concerns our home, planet earth."

Pros
"Seeing the light come on in a beginner's eyes as she or he realizes that they have the tools to accomplish these outdoor skills."

Cons
"I personally don't believe that I have found one yet. In general, jobs in the outdoors can be summed up by a line from Jimmy Buffet, 'The occupational hazard is the occupation's just not around.' These types of outdoor positions are few and far between. If you can find one that works, give it 120% effort."

His Dream Job
"A combination of the last three positions that I have held: Park Ranger, Environmental Consultant, and Outdoor Adventure Director."

Do you think there's any danger in your passion becoming your career?
"If the passion is there, I believe we all can have a job doing what we love. If you believe in your path, whether it be a park ranger or teacher, you are 95% of the way there. The rest is just normal sweat and tears."

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