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Natural Science Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Technosylva

Project Manager

Denver, CO · On-site +1

Bachelor's degree in a technical field such as engineering, computer science, and/or natural science. * Valid PMP designation from the Project Management Institute (PMI) is an asset.

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Natural Science Manager information

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$30.5K

$110K

$124.1K

How much do natural science manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural science manager in Colorado is $109,963.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,900.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a natural science manager?

Natural Science Managers are professionals who oversee the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists, in organizations such as research institutions, government agencies, or private companies. They are responsible for planning and coordinating scientific research and development projects, managing budgets, and ensuring that their teams meet project goals and comply with regulations. In addition to administrative duties, they may also help develop research strategies and interpret results. Natural Science Managers usually have extensive experience in a scientific discipline and strong leadership skills.

How do natural science managers balance administrative duties with leading scientific research projects?

Natural Science Managers often split their time between overseeing administrative tasks—such as budgeting, scheduling, and compliance—and guiding the scientific direction of their teams. This dual responsibility requires strong organizational skills, as managers must ensure that research projects stay on track while also managing staff, reporting progress, and securing funding. Effective Natural Science Managers create clear communication channels and delegate tasks appropriately to balance these demands, enabling them to support both the scientific and operational success of their departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a natural science manager?

To thrive as a Natural Science Manager, you need a strong background in scientific research, project management, and typically a graduate degree in a relevant science field. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory management systems, and sometimes specific certifications in project management or environmental regulations are commonly required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help managers coordinate teams and translate scientific findings into actionable strategies. These combined skills ensure successful project execution, regulatory compliance, and the advancement of organizational goals in scientific settings.

What is the difference between Natural Science Manager vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectNatural Science ManagerEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in natural sciences, often with management experienceBachelor's or higher in environmental science, biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLeads teams in research, labs, or field projects within organizationsConducts fieldwork, research, and data analysis in environmental settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, private companiesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in natural sciencesEnvironmental research and fieldwork roles

The main difference is that a Natural Science Manager oversees scientific teams and projects within natural sciences, focusing on management and coordination, while an Environmental Scientist primarily conducts research and fieldwork to assess environmental conditions. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials, but the manager's role emphasizes leadership and organizational skills.

How long does it take to become a natural science manager?

Becoming a natural science manager typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, which takes about four years, followed by several years of experience in scientific research or related roles. Many positions also prefer candidates with a master's or doctoral degree and leadership skills, which can extend the timeline to 8-10 years or more depending on career progression and industry requirements.

How much do natural science managers make?

Natural science managers in Colorado typically earn an average annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and the specific industry. They often oversee research projects, manage teams, and require strong knowledge of scientific methods and project management skills.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Natural Science Manager jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Natural Science Manager job openings:

Natural Science Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Natural Science Manager job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,963 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Foley Graduate Fellowship in Natural Science Education 2027-2029

Walking Mountains Science Center

Avon, CO • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Organizational Overview: Founded in 1998, Walking Mountains' mission is to awaken a sense of wonder and inspire environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education. As an employee of our organization, you are a member of an inclusive and dynamic team that values community, professionalism, collaboration, diversity, equity, a positive work environment and a passion for the mission of Walking Mountains and the impact it's making in the community.
Position Overview: This full-time, 2-year and 2-month position at Walking Mountains is responsible for serving the organization with a personal commitment to awakening a sense of wonder and inspiring environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education. The Graduate Fellow position requires dedication to experiential learning, environmental education, natural science education, and lifelong learning. The Graduate Fellows teach natural science programming in the field during our summer science camps, school field programs, and early childhood programs. In addition to teaching responsibilities, Graduate Fellows simultaneously participate in a fully funded Master's program and are enrolled in courses taught at Walking Mountains and online through the University of Northern Colorado (UNC). Upon successful completion of all required coursework and job responsibilities of the position, Fellows will earn a Master of Arts degree in Science Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Foley Graduate Fellows report directly to the Youth & Graduate Programs Director (Y&GPD).
Responsibilities
Teaching:
  • School Programs: Teach standards-based science topics during field programs to a group of 10-13 students in grades K-8, in all weather conditions, utilizing inquiry-based, hands-on teaching methods.
  • Teach occasional residential programs, including some meal preparation, evening programming, and overnight supervision.
  • Conduct occasional pre-classroom visits prior to students participating in a field program.
  • Summer Programs: Co-Teach weeklong day camps and occasional 2-night residential camps focused on science topics, exploration, and fun for up to 13 campers in grades K-9.
  • Afterschool Programs: Lead one afterschool program each week throughout the second school year of the fellowship.

Program Preparation and Logistics:
  • Engage in reflective teaching practices, including regular preparation and review of curriculum, development of science content knowledge, and ongoing adaptation of teaching techniques following field experiences and feedback.
  • Rotate 'Lead Educator' responsibilities and assist with program preparation, coordination, and teacher/parent communication.
  • Contribute to creation and maintenance of teaching materials for school and summer programs.
  • Assist with database management, including student participation data, assessment data, and evaluations.
  • Take program photos and collect student work to be used for website updates and development efforts.
  • Attend or conduct occasional evening and weekend programs and events.

Learning Community:
  • Work as a productive team member with other educator/fellows, instructors, and managers in the office to organize, develop, and improve curriculum and materials utilizing an ongoing program evaluation, curriculum review, and revision process.
  • Contribute to a positive team dynamic within the graduate cohort and larger youth programs department.
  • Be a productive member of a supportive learning community by sharing your knowledge and expertise and being willing to learn from others.
  • Be a positive, responsible, and respectful member of the on-campus housing community and follow all housing policies.
  • Contribute to the local community through researching, writing, and submitting blog posts and Curious Nature articles.
  • Complete required formal observation/coaching sessions throughout fellowship.

Curriculum Development:
  • Assist in ongoing program evaluation, curriculum review, and revision based on Walking Mountains' program goals and objectives, Eagle County Schools' needs, Colorado Academic Standards, and Next Generation Science Standards.
  • Develop or revise existing summer camp or school field curricula as part of graduate coursework.

Special Events & Assignments:
  • Participate in organization-wide fundraising and special events outside of normal work hours (i.e., A Taste of Nature, Fright at the Museum, etc.)
  • Participate in community events outside of normal work hours (i.e., Wild West Days, etc.)
  • Complete a passion or special project each year of the fellowship, designed to further learning in fellow areas of interest.

Operations & Risk Management:
  • Evaluate environmental conditions and make safety decisions that incorporate Walking Mountains' emergency protocol and current risk management procedures.
  • Maintain a clean workspace and fulfill facility cleaning responsibilities.
  • Assist with upkeep and maintenance of WMSC vehicles and program resources, including first aid supplies, teaching supplies and equipment, field gear, specimens, and library books.
  • Safely transport students in 15-passenger vehicles during summer months.
  • Responsible for financially covering and maintaining required medical certifications.
  • Participate in rotating campus security duties per housing guidelines.

Professional Development and Graduate Fellowship:
  • Participate in a combination of face-to-face and online courses in science and environmental education, leading to 30 graduate credits and a Master of Arts Degree in Science Education.*
  • Participate in all classes and complete your coursework outside of your 40-hour work week teaching school and summer camp programs.
  • Participate in five to seven weeks of staff training and professional development opportunities.
  • Attend the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education annual conference, paid for and coordinated by WM.
  • Engage in ongoing reflective teaching practices, including regular discussion, exploration of interesting topics, and sharing of new ideas and insights.
  • Conduct an action research project as part of the degree program that is in line with the goals and mission of Walking Mountains.

*Fellows must earn grades of B or better in all coursework in order to earn their degree; repeating courses must be
done at the educator's expense.
All other duties as assigned.
Location: Avon, CO
Duration: May 24, 2027 to July 27, 2029 (2 year and 3 month commitment) start and end dates tentatively
flexible based on school district calendar, graduation and programming needs
Educator Benefits:
  • $17,500 annual stipend, plus housing and tuition* May 24, 2027 - July 27, 2029 *Tuition includes the cost of all 30 graduate credits required for a Master of Arts Degree in Science Education (upon completion with a grade of B or higher in each course) and access to all course books and resources. Some courses are taken online through UNC's Extended Campus and others are taken in person at Walking Mountains. Tuition valued at approximately $19,000.
  • Five weeks paid vacation per year correlated with school district calendar (Includes paid holidays that occur during these weeks such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break etc.)
  • Ten paid organizational holidays per year (some of these occur within the above 5 weeks)
  • Two Floating Holidays
  • Twelve sick days per year
  • Eligibility for company supplemented health insurance, including dental, as well as group vision insurance on the first day of the month following 30 days of employment
  • Flexible Spending and Healthcare Savings Account options
  • Company provided life insurance
  • Ski pass
  • Professional Development Opportunities (Examples Include: Graduate Coursework, CAEE Conference Attendance, Snow Science/Avalanche Training, Nature Center Site Visits)

Requirements
Qualifications & Expectations
  • BA/BS in science, education, or an environmental science-related field (coursework in biology, chemistry, and other hard sciences is a plus, but those with other degrees should not hesitate to apply)
  • A minimum of 1 year of outdoor and/or classroom teaching experience or equivalent
  • Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications (Can be secured upon acceptance and prior to start date; need-based financial support may be a possibility if this is a barrier to participation)
  • Positive, self-motivated, organized, flexible, and creative individual who can work independently and as part of a team.
  • Spanish Language Skills (desired, but not required)
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work (required by UNC, special circumstances may be considered)
  • Working knowledge of conservation issues, ecology, and natural history

Important Application Notes:
Those who have had historical and systemic barriers to the field of outdoor education, and consequently the workforce, are encouraged to apply.
Once accepted by Walking Mountains, and in order to finalize the application process, chosen applicants will need to submit a formal application to UNC as well.
  • You will need to send official transcripts to UNC.
  • UNC will require 2 letters of recommendation.
  • There is a cost to this application, which is covered by the applicant
  • If you want to apply for financial aid to help offset living costs, be sure to apply for your FAFSA by the deadline.

Application Deadline and Hiring Timeline:
  • Application opens September 1st, 2026
  • Application deadline November 15th, 2026
  • Interview offers early-mid December 2026
  • Interviews take place first week of January 2027
  • Positions offered end of January / early February 2027
  • Position starts May 24, 2027

Application Requirements:
You will be required to upload in the Walking Mountains' online application form (below):
  1. Current resume
  2. Cover letter - please include the following:
  • Identify your graduate education goals
  • Identify how this program will support your future career goals
  • Identify the scientific knowledge and teaching skills you are looking to strengthen
  • Identify topics of interest for an action research project
  • Applicants are encouraged to include and describe any pertinent personal and professional experience in their cover letter when applying.

3. Walking Mountains' application form with a list of three professional references.
4. Copy of undergraduate transcripts from all universities attended (these can be unofficial during application period; official transcripts required of accepted applicants
5. One Letter of Recommendation (you will need 2 for UNC)
6. Academic writing sample (3-5 pages in length)

Apply