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Assistant Naturalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Teacher Naturalist

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

The Teacher Naturalist will lead environmental education programs for school groups and the public, support visitor services, and assist with special events and programming. This position works ...

Teacher Naturalist

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50/hr

The Teacher Naturalist will lead environmental education programs for school groups and the public, support visitor services, and assist with special events and programming. This position works ...

$11.50/hr

They provide support and leadership opportunities to assistant camp naturalists and Leaders-In-Training ("LITs," who are teenage volunteers at camp), while ensuring the safety of everyone in the ...

$33.75 - $37/hr

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute ... Strong customer service abilities; actively looks for ways to assist customers and coworkers.

Showing results 21-40

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.

More about Assistant Naturalist jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Naturalist jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Naturalist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Naturalist jobs? The most popular types of Naturalist jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Naturalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Naturalist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Naturalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Naturalist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Assistant Naturalist job openings in the United States as of July 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.
Interpretive Naturalist

Interpretive Naturalist

Naperville Park District

Naperville, IL • On-site

$19/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago


Naperville Park District rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 703 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Overview:
Under the direct supervision of the Nature Center Manager, the Interpretive Naturalist assists with the operation of the Knoch Knolls Nature Center and the system wide delivery of the District's environmental programming.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  1. Provide an exceptional customer service experience and promote District services and facilities by assisting customers on the phone and in person.
  2. Successfully process point of sale items. Successfully balance receipts, reconcile transactions, and prepare weekend bank deposits.
  3. Ensure confidential use of customer information, including credit card transactions.
  4. Develop and evaluate environmental education curriculum, prepare materials and supplies, instruct youth, camp, school, scout, and adult programs, and plan and support special events.
  5. Lead interpretive programs and create exhibits at the Knoch Knolls Nature Center and other District facilities.
  6. Communicate effectively with participants, guardians, and staff regarding rule infractions, questions, or concerns.
  7. Provide care for live animals including feeding and tank cleaning.
  8. Work closely with related staff to achieve the goals and objectives of the environmental education programs.
  9. Build and maintain working relationships with the Conservation Foundation, forest preserve districts, schools, and other community groups.
  10. Maintain and organize inventory of program equipment and supplies. Report inventory in need of replacement to the Nature Center Manager.
  11. Maintain on-going open communication and notify the supervisor of situations regarding the operation of the program such as broken equipment, equipment shortages, and facility damage.
  12. Record and communicate any difficult situations or behaviors to the Nature Center Manager.
  13. Provide guidance and direction to Nature Center Assistant and/or volunteers assisting with projects or programs.
  14. Monitor weather conditions before, during, and after programs to ensure the safety of participants and staff.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Respond to all customer comments and inquiries in a timely fashion.
  • Work in conjunction with staff to complete referrals to WDSRA and work with WDSRA staff to develop program plans for participants with special needs.
  • Ensure that program areas are left neat and clean after each use and that materials and equipment are returned.
  • Seek, interpret, and act upon input from residents and the public.
  • Distribute written communication as necessary or requested.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Working knowledge and experience pertaining to wildlife, natural history, and local flora and fauna.
  • Ability to create innovative nature programs for audiences of all ages.
  • Ability to share natural and cultural history information in a relevant manner with an audience or individual.
  • Demonstrated ability to care for live animals and comfortable with live animals, including snakes, turtles, fish, salamanders and insects.
  • Ability to work independently in day-to-day operations with general direction from supervisor.
  • Ability to display professionalism with patrons.
  • Ability to address complaints and resolve concerns.
  • Working knowledge of basic computer software including Microsoft platform.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Interpretation, Environmental Education, Natural Sciences, or related field.
  • Minimum three (3) years of experience developing and presenting environmental education or nature programming, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, First Aid, CPR, and AED certification within two (2) months of hire.

Special Considerations:
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Subject to office and outside environmental conditions.
  • Subject to modified/flexible work schedules including weekends and evenings.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing ≤ 30 lbs. on a weekly basis. Lifting assistance is required when lifting > 30 lbs.
  • Regular onsite attendance is an essential function of this position.

Benefits
Hiring Rate: $19.00/hr
To be considered for this position, interested individuals must complete the online application accessible at
www.napervilleparks.org/employment. Materials submitted through mail, email, or fax will not be considered

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