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Assistant Naturalist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Naturalist information

What is an assistant naturalist?

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:

Infographic showing various Assistant Naturalist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Seasonal Natural Resources Worker - Turkey Run State Park

State of Indiana

Marshall, IN

$12.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st 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 Turkey Run State Park:
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.

Turkey Run is currently hiring for a Natural Aide


Salary Statement: 

The hourly wage for seasonal positions varies, starting at $12.25/hour. 

A Day in the Life:

The Seasonal Natural Resources Workers provide customer service and education to visitors about park features while maintaining the property's natural resources. Seasonal Natural Resources Worker positions and their essential functions are as follows:

  • Interpretive Specialists: Educate the public on property-specific nature, history, culture, and park services through memorable experiences. 
  • Naturalist Aides: Assists with education of the nature center programming, local/common flora and fauna, and local/common animal species. This position may also assist in the care of animals (feeding, watering, and bedding changes) and the general maintenance of the nature center.
  • Village Workers (Spring Mill State Park Only): Assists with education of period-appropriate trades, techniques, and crafts while presenting cultural history. Trades include woodworking, leatherwork,broom-makingg, blacksmith, weaving, and milling. 
  • Cave Tour Guides (O’Bannon Woods State Park Only): Educate the general public on the natural history of caves. Tour Guides assist with scheduling reservations and collecting tour fees. Further, research may be required on the identification and care of relevant flora and fauna.  Tour Guides are expected to maintain boats, equipment, and the registration shed.
  • Resource Management Techs: Assists with the control of invasive plant species natural area restoration trail maintenance, brush and tree removal, signage, timber marking, and/or timber stand improvement based on the property.

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.

What You'll Need for Success:

​​​​​​​You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment:

  • High school diploma, GED, or one (1) year of work experience
  • May be expected to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • May be required to wear a DNR-provided uniform
  • May be required to travel to different properties
  • May experience working in potentially inclement weather
  • May experience working with DOC work release crews
  • May be required to have a valid driver’s license. 
  • May perform duties in a variety of different environments, including an office environment, field environment, rugged terrain, and various adverse weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, sleet, etc.). 
  • May work around potentially dangerous heavy equipment (e.g. tractors, disks, mowers, planters, etc.).
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

This seasonal position does not offer benefits and is limited to 180 working days in an eleven (11) month continuous period  

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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