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Assistant Naturalist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Naturalist

Marshall, IN · On-site

$42K/yr

A naturalist bridges the gap between the natural world and the public. They act as educators ... Manage the property's social media and other online platforms. * Assist in the development of new ...

State of Indiana

Naturalist

Marshall, IN

$42K/yr

A naturalist bridges the gap between the natural world and the public. They act as educators ... Manage the property's social media and other online platforms. * Assist in the development of new ...

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Assistant Naturalist information

What are Assistant Naturalists?

Assistant Naturalists are professionals who support the work of naturalists and environmental educators in promoting understanding and conservation of natural environments. They assist with field research, educational programs, guided nature walks, and the maintenance of nature centers or parks. Their work often involves interacting with the public, leading activities for groups of all ages, and collecting data on local flora and fauna. Assistant Naturalists play a key role in environmental education and stewardship, helping to foster a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

What are some typical challenges Assistant Naturalists face when leading educational programs?

Assistant Naturalists often encounter the challenge of engaging diverse audiences, which can include children, families, or adults with varying levels of knowledge about nature. Adapting activities to suit different age groups, weather conditions, and group sizes requires flexibility and creativity. Additionally, they must ensure safety during outdoor excursions and handle unexpected situations, such as wildlife encounters or sudden changes in the environment. Collaborating with senior staff and volunteers is essential to deliver successful programs and maintain a positive experience for participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Naturalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Naturalist, a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with observational and field research skills, is essential. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and basic ecological monitoring software is commonly required. Strong communication, public speaking, and teamwork abilities help in educating the public and collaborating with colleagues. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting conservation efforts, conducting fieldwork, and promoting environmental awareness.

What is the difference between Assistant Naturalist vs Naturalist?

AspectAssistant NaturalistNaturalist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, some experience in natural sciencesBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field
Work EnvironmentWildlife reserves, parks, nature centersSimilar settings, often with more independent responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, non-profits, educational institutionsSame as Assistant Naturalist, often with more advanced roles
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Assistant Naturalist typically supports naturalist staff with educational programs and fieldwork, requiring less formal education. A Naturalist often has a higher level of education and takes on more independent responsibilities in interpreting nature and leading programs. Both roles are common in parks and nature centers, but the Naturalist position generally involves more expertise and leadership.

What are the most commonly searched types of Naturalist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Naturalist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Naturalist jobs in Indiana? For Assistant Naturalist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Naturalist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Naturalist jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Assistant Naturalist jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Assistant Naturalist job openings:
Assistant Naturalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Naturalist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Naturalist

Naturalist

State of Indiana

Marshall, IN • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education.
Turkey Run State Park is the second park to join the Indiana state park system. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is in the path of the 2024 solar eclipse. Multiple indigenous tribes inhabited the area. The park is thought to be named for the wild turkeys that gathered in the deep sandstone ravines ("runs"). The 2,382-acre forested park offers camping, fishing, hiking, horse rides, and an Inn. The Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin commemorates the contributions of the father of Indiana's state park system.
Role Overview:
A naturalist bridges the gap between the natural world and the public. They act as educators, researchers, and stewards who monitor our ecosystems and inspire environmental awareness. Some of the core responsibilities include but are not limited to the following; public education, content creation, conservation and habitat management. This position will focuses heavily on storytelling, exhibits, and face-to-face interactions with visitors. Working weekends, holidays, and evenings is a must.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
  • Plan, coordinate, and present various educational programs for property visitors as well as for the community.
  • Manage a nature center and/or other interpretive facility which includes hiring and training seasonal naturalist aides and support staff.
  • Conduct research, develop inventory, and coordinate active management of the natural and cultural resources of the property.
  • Develop and maintain brochures and bulletin boards.
  • Maintain aquariums, terrariums, and vivarium, including the care of live educational animals.
  • Manage the property's social media and other online platforms.
  • Assist in the development of new nature center facilities or visitor centers and associated exhibits.
  • Coordinate interpretive activities with central office staff and property managers.
  • Interact with property visitors daily and respond to requests in writing for information from the public.
  • Plan and organize special events and festivals on the property, or on other DNR properties.
  • Oversee maintenance of the facility and exhibit construction work by skilled craft-persons.
  • Manage the property volunteer program and serve as liaison with the property friends' group and other partners as appropriate.
  • Recruit, select, onboard, and train employees to ensure role responsibilities and expectations are clearly understood while providing opportunities to continue professional development.
  • Set expectations, measure progress, provide ongoing feedback, and evaluate the performance of employees. Ensure work adheres to quality standards, deadlines, and proper procedures.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
  • Thorough knowledge of natural resources principles and theories of interpretation and environmental education.
  • Thorough knowledge of natural resources rules and regulations and the ability to explain and interpret them to the public.
  • Thorough knowledge of federal and state regulations regarding migratory birds and endangered species.
  • Ability to plan and present programs, exhibits, demonstrations and videos in a creative and imaginative manner that are cohesive, thematic, and engaging.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to manage and interact professionally through social media channels.
  • Working knowledge of special event planning techniques and logistics.
  • Working knowledge of volunteer management techniques and practices.
  • Ability to delegate work, set clear direction, and manage workflow
  • Ability to effectively give feedback, provide guidance or corrective action, coach, and develop employee skillsets
  • Certification as a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation, or willingness to obtain certification within first year of employment.

Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources, Biology, History, Interpretation (Cultural and/or Natural), Outdoor Recreation or related field preferred.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
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