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Lead Naturalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NOVA Parks

Naturalist

Alexandria, VA

$15.75/hr

Naturalists perform interpretive duties, work with volunteers, and lead related program work at Winkler Botanical Preserve. Pay Rate: $15.75 per hour Major Duties/Specific Tasks * Lead the ...

East Bay Regional Park District

Naturalist

Oakland, CA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Enjoys working independently and collaboratively to develop and lead interpretive programs for a diverse public and school groups * Takes initiative, supports others, and incorporates feedback well

NOVA Parks

Naturalist

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Naturalists perform interpretive duties, work with volunteers, and lead related program work at Winkler Botanical Preserve. Pay Rate: $15.75 per hour Major Duties/Specific Tasks * Lead the ...

City of Rockville

Naturalist

Rockville, MD

$18 - $24/hr

Job Summary Croydon Creek Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Naturalist to join ... Plan and lead at least two week-long nature-based summer day camps. Provide daily care for the ...

City of Rockville, MD

Naturalist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... engaging Naturalist to join our education team. The ideal candidate has knowledge of Maryland ... Plan and lead at least two week-long nature-based summer day camps. * Provide daily care for the ...

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Lead Naturalist information

What is a lead naturalist?

A Lead Naturalist is a professional who specializes in studying, interpreting, and educating others about the natural environment. They often oversee environmental programs, guide nature walks, and manage educational activities at parks, nature centers, or conservation organizations. In addition to conducting research and fieldwork, Lead Naturalists supervise junior staff, develop curriculum, and work to promote conservation efforts within their communities. Their role is crucial in fostering environmental awareness and stewardship among the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead naturalist?

To thrive as a Lead Naturalist, you need expertise in ecology, environmental science, and wildlife identification, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, data collection systems, and certifications like Wilderness First Aid are commonly required. Strong communication, leadership, and interpretive skills help you engage both team members and the public effectively. These skills are crucial for guiding conservation efforts, ensuring safety, and fostering environmental education and stewardship.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead naturalist and how can they be addressed?

As a Lead Naturalist, a common challenge is balancing administrative duties with hands-on fieldwork and educational programming. Additionally, adapting to varying weather conditions and managing diverse groups—such as school children, tourists, or volunteers—requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Building collaborative relationships with local organizations and continuously updating knowledge about local ecosystems can help address these challenges. Proactive planning and staying current with conservation best practices are also essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Lead Naturalist vs Naturalist?

AspectLead NaturalistNaturalist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, environmental science, or related field; certifications in outdoor education or conservation are commonUsually requires a similar degree or background; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentLeads programs, manages staff, and coordinates activities in parks, nature reserves, or educational centersConducts nature walks, educational programs, and field research, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageFound in parks, nature centers, environmental organizations, and educational institutionsCommonly employed in similar settings, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Lead Naturalist and a Naturalist is the level of responsibility. Lead Naturalists typically oversee programs, manage staff, and coordinate activities, while Naturalists focus on conducting educational and research activities. Both roles require relevant education and certifications, but Lead Naturalists usually have more experience and leadership duties.

More about Lead Naturalist jobs

What job categories do people searching Lead Naturalist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Naturalist jobs are:

Lead Naturalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Naturalist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Outdoor Center Naturalist Assistant (Part-time)

City of Eden Prairie

Eden Prairie, MN • On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Outdoor Center Naturalist Assistant (Part-time)

Deadline to apply: September 4, 2026

Expected Start Date: September 2026

Details

  • Part Time, non-exempt
  • $14.00 - $19.00 per hour (depending on qualifications)
  • Reports to Outdoor Center Supervisor/Lead Naturalist
  • Located at Eden Prairie Outdoor Center (13765 Staring Lake Pkwy., Eden Prairie, MN).
  • Hours based on program schedule and business need. May include a combination of daytime, evening, and weekend.

Responsibilities

The Naturalist Assistant position assists the Outdoor Center Supervisor/ Lead Naturalist in setting up, preparing for, and delivering programs to all participants in a safe, friendly, and enjoyable atmosphere.  The Naturalist Assistant may also help with animal care, cleaning, feeding, and maintenance. The primary position responsibilities and areas of impact are:

  • Assists Naturalists at the Eden Prairie Outdoor Center during public programs, school programs, camps, and special events. Assist in the supervision of children and facilitates group activities. Assist in the preparation of materials and supplies for Outdoor Center programs and camps.
  • Provides a high level of customer service and ensures a safe and welcoming environment for the public.

While these areas are the primary focus of this position, we believe strongly in teamwork and employees will be called upon to perform a variety of duties as a part of their role with the City.

Requirements

  • Minimum rising senior in high school or high school graduate. Post-secondary experience in education, biology, or recreation preferred.
  • Experience working with children required. Previous experience as a teaching assistant preferred. Experience developing and implementing programs and activities preferred. Experience with cleaning and feeding educational animals preferred. Outdoor and/or camping skills preferred. CPR and First Aid Certification preferred.
  • Must be able to frequently lift/carry/pull up to 35 lbs.
  • Candidates must successfully complete and pass the City’s evaluation of the pre-employment process prior to their first day of employment. Pre-employment processes for this position includes professional reference checks, background check, work verification.

 

Skills

  • Able to convey a message to get a point across. Communicates in a clear and concise manner. Able to write clearly and succinctly. Tailors message to a variety of communication settings and styles.
  • Ability to perform and/or coordinate several activities, responsibilities, and tasks simultaneously in a polite and professional manner. Prioritizes what needs to get done. Keeps things neat and orderly. Utilizes tools for efficiency. Factors several considerations when planning. Establishes methods to ensure routine tasks are completed.
  • Ability to tackle a problem by using logical, systematic, sequential approach. Makes a systematic comparison of two or more alternatives. Notices discrepancies and inconsistencies in available information. Identifies a set of features, parameters or considerations to take into account in analyzing a situation or making a decision.

City of Eden Prairie Values

We are a service organization. We take pride in what we do. We cultivate a supportive, encouraging and productive culture with a strong customer focus. We promote wellness and plan work/life balance into our goals. We value differences and foster inclusion. We achieve success by exhibiting our core values: collaboration, innovation, integrity, performance and relationships.

Application Process

To apply, click on "apply now" at the top of the page or visit www.edenprairieMN.gov and click on the Jobs tab.

 

Apply