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What are natural history jobs?

Natural history jobs involve the study and interpretation of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, and other aspects of the natural world. Professionals in these roles may work as museum curators, researchers, educators, conservationists, or field biologists, often focusing on understanding and preserving biodiversity. These jobs can be found in museums, universities, research institutions, parks, and environmental organizations, and typically require a background in biology, geology, or environmental science. Tasks might include conducting fieldwork, cataloging specimens, developing educational programs, or managing collections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Natural Historian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Natural Historian, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, geology, or a related science, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a natural science field. Familiarity with field research tools, data analysis software, GIS systems, and sometimes specimen collection techniques is essential. Curiosity, observational skills, effective communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for gathering and sharing scientific insights. These skills enable accurate data collection, meaningful research, and compelling education about the natural world.

What types of projects or research might I be involved with in a Natural History role?

In a Natural History position, you may participate in a variety of projects, such as cataloging specimens, conducting field research on plant or animal populations, and assisting with public education programs or exhibits. Many roles involve collaborating with scientists, educators, and collection managers to document biodiversity and contribute to ongoing research. You might also be responsible for data entry, specimen preservation, and supporting conservation initiatives. These activities provide valuable opportunities to deepen your expertise and often offer pathways to specialize further or advance into curatorial or research-focused positions.

What is the difference between Natural History vs Paleontologist?

AspectNatural HistoryPaleontologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degree in biology, geology, or related fieldsBachelor's degree often required; master's or Ph.D. preferred in paleontology or geology
Work EnvironmentMuseums, research institutions, field sites, educational settingsField excavations, laboratories, museums, academic institutions
Industry UsageEducation, museums, research, conservationResearch, excavation, fossil analysis, academia

Natural History professionals focus on studying and educating about the natural world, including plants, animals, and ecosystems. Paleontologists specialize in studying fossils to understand prehistoric life. While both roles involve scientific research and fieldwork, paleontologists have specialized training in fossil analysis and geology, making their work more focused on ancient life forms.

More about Natural History jobs
What cities are hiring for Natural History jobs? Cities with the most Natural History job openings:
What states have the most Natural History jobs? States with the most job openings for Natural History jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Natural History jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Natural History jobs are:
Natural History jobs near you
Infographic showing various Natural History job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
Curatorial Associate

Curatorial Associate

American Museum of Natural History

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$93K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Curatorial Associate
Department
Invertebrate Zoology - 011
Position Summary
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world's preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education and exhibition.
The Invertebrate Zoology Division is seeking a full-time Curatorial Associate to manage the day-to-day care, organization and accessibility of the Invertebrate Zoology collections. The Division houses over 23 million specimens (insects, arachnids, crustaceans, mollusks, cnidaria and other non-vertebrate animals). The main responsibilities of this position are grounded in collections stewardship.
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Lead and manage the Division's collections curation program.
  • Work with curators and Museum Specialists to manage the collections, including space, infrastructure, storage facilities, equipment, collections management, databases and the informatics program, as well as Museum staff and volunteer efforts.
  • Supervise and facilitate Divisional processing of new acquisitions, loans, visitors, stewardship, pest management and compliance with federal permitting, wildlife transactions and Museum policy.
  • Work with the chair and curators to seek external support for collections improvement, digitization of collections and other initiatives related to collections management.
  • Handle collections reporting and other administrative tasks, as assigned.
  • Train staff and volunteers as needed on the use of equipment and facilities.
  • Serve as department safety liaison and fire evacuation warden.

The expected salary range for the Curatorial Associate is $93,000/annual - $98,000/annual. The AMNH offers an extensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our dedicated and diverse community.
Pay will be determined based on several factors. The hiring range for the position at commencement is based on the type of work and the scope of responsibilities. The salary and placement offered is based on a number of individualized factors, including, but not limited to, skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization and depth and scope of experience.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Completed PhD or PhD candidate in Invertebrate Zoology or its subfields.
  • Two years experience with collections management and collections care standards, including handling, rehousing, conservation and data management.
  • Two years experience working with specimen databases and digitization workflows.
  • Proficiency with KE EMu and/or other collections databases.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of invertebrate groups.
  • Experience managing type material.
  • Proficient experience working with public repositories.
  • Knowledge of data sharing standards.

Physical Demands
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
  • Must be able to move about the Museum campus.
  • Positioning/change of positioning: Must be able to frequently position oneself/body to accomplish job duties.
    • Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and up to 20 pounds of force frequently. May include any of the following:
      • Pushing: Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force to thrust forward, downward or outward.
      • Pulling: Using upper extremities to exert force in order to drag, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion.
      • Lifting: Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position.

Category
Full-Time
Total Number of Scheduled Hours Per Pay Period
70
Union Status
Non-Union
FLSA
Exempt
Expected Salary Minimum
$93,000/annual
Expected Salary Maximum
$98,000/annual
EEO Statement
The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The Museum does not discriminate with respect to employment, or admission or access to Museum facilities, programs or activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, marital status, partnership status, gender (including sexual harassment), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy and lactation accommodations, alienage or citizenship status, current or former participation in the uniformed services, status as a veteran, caregiver, pre-employment marijuana testing, sexual and reproductive health decisions, salary history, national or ethnic origin, height, weight, or on account of any other basis prohibited by applicable City, State, or Federal law. Additional protections are afforded in employment based on arrest or conviction record, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking and sex offenses, unemployment status, and credit history, in each case to the extent provided by law.
Quick Link
https://careers.amnh.org/postings/4529
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
GS920P
Open Date
09/03/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants

Apply