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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 ...

New

Hamilton County Indiana

Naturalist

Noblesville, IN · On-site

$29.58/hr

Naturalist DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation WORK SCHEDULE: 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., 5 days a week as scheduled STATUS: Full-time FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt HOURLY RATE: $29.5824 per hour To perform this ...

City of Rockville

Naturalist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Job Summary Croydon Creek Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Naturalist to join our education team. The ideal candidate has knowledge of Maryland's native flora and fauna ...

Hamilton County Indiana

Naturalist

Noblesville, IN

$29.58/hr

Naturalist DEPARTMENT:Parks and Recreation WORK SCHEDULE:9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., 5 days a week as scheduled STATUS: Full-time FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt HOURLY RATE: $29.5824 per hour To perform this ...

NOVA Parks

Naturalist

Alexandria, VA

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 ...

New

State of Indiana

Naturalist

Marshall, IN · On-site

$42K/yr

A naturalist bridges the gap between the natural world and the public. They act as educators, researchers, and stewards who monitor our ecosystems and inspire environmental awareness. Some of the ...

State of Indiana

Naturalist

Marshall, IN · On-site

$42K/yr

A naturalist bridges the gap between the natural world and the public. They act as educators, researchers, and stewards who monitor our ecosystems and inspire environmental awareness. Some of the ...

Marriott International

Naturalist

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$24.50/hr

Prepare for each activity, ensuring that the co-naturalist or attendant is also prepared with any necessary materials, and guiding the group at all times. Follow company policies and procedures ...

City of Rockville, MD

Naturalist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Croydon Creek Nature Center Opening Date: 08/03/2026 Closing Date: 11/1/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Job Summary Croydon Creek Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Naturalist to join our ...

Marriott

Naturalist

Dana Point, CA · On-site

Prepare for each activity, ensuring that the co-naturalist or attendant is also prepared with any necessary materials, and guiding the group at all times. Follow company policies and procedures ...

Nassau BOCES

Naturalist - Provisional

Garden City, NY · On-site

You must have the qualifications to become a provisional hire in the Naturalist title; you will be required to take the exam when announced by Nassau County Civil Service. GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES ...

Pathfinder Ranch

Outdoor Education Naturalist

CA · On-site

$676 - $796/wk

Responsive recruiter Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Naturalist uses established curriculum and the California State Content Standards for instructing a variety of academic subjects ...

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Naturalist information

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How much do naturalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for naturalist in the United States is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a naturalist?

A naturalist is someone who preserves and helps others to enjoy the natural world, particularly through the administration of parks and wildlife preservation. Your duties include guide work, performing field study of local nature and habitats, and providing education and recreation activities for the public. You often lead camping and rafting trips or nature walks for both adults and children. Other duties include park upkeep, administrative tasks related to park admission, funding, and maintenance, such as trail building and overseeing cleanup crews. A naturalist spends most of their time outdoors.

Can you become a naturalist without a degree?

Becoming a naturalist typically does not require a formal degree, as many positions value practical experience, knowledge of ecology, and communication skills. However, some employers may prefer or require a degree in biology, environmental science, or related fields, especially for advanced roles or research positions. Gaining certifications or volunteering can also enhance qualifications for naturalist roles.

What does a naturalist do?

Naturalists are professionals who study and observe plants, animals, and ecosystems in their natural environments. They often work to educate the public about nature, lead guided tours, conduct field research, and help with conservation efforts. Naturalists may be employed by parks, museums, nature centers, or environmental organizations. Their work helps increase public awareness and understanding of the natural world, and they often play a key role in preserving local habitats and biodiversity.

How does a naturalist typically collaborate with other professionals in their daily work?

A Naturalist often works closely with park rangers, environmental educators, researchers, and conservation officers to design and deliver educational programs, conduct field studies, and manage conservation efforts. Collaboration may involve coordinating public events, sharing data from wildlife observations, or helping to develop resource management plans. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Naturalists frequently serve as a bridge between scientific experts and the public, ensuring that information is accessible and engaging.

What jobs does a naturalist do?

A naturalist studies and interprets the natural environment, often working outdoors in parks, reserves, or educational settings. Their tasks include leading nature walks, conducting research, educating the public, and documenting flora and fauna, often requiring knowledge of ecology and environmental science.

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

To thrive as a Naturalist, a solid background in biology, ecology, or environmental science—often supported by a relevant degree—is essential. Familiarity with field research tools, GIS software, and certifications like First Aid or Wilderness Survival are commonly required. Outstanding observation, communication, and public speaking skills help Naturalists engage diverse audiences and collaborate effectively. These competencies enable Naturalists to accurately study natural environments, educate the public, and contribute to conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Naturalist vs Environmental Educator?

AspectNaturalistEnvironmental Educator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, ecology, or related fields; certifications are optionalOften requires a degree in environmental science, education, or related fields; certifications in environmental education are common
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings such as parks, nature reserves, and wildlife areasClassrooms, nature centers, and outdoor programs for schools and communities
Employer & IndustryNational parks, wildlife agencies, nature centersSchools, non-profits, government agencies focused on environmental education

While both roles focus on environmental awareness, Naturalists primarily engage in outdoor exploration and wildlife observation, whereas Environmental Educators focus on teaching and community outreach about environmental issues. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their primary activities and settings.

More about Naturalist jobs
What cities are hiring for Naturalist jobs? Cities with the most Naturalist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Naturalist jobs? The most popular types of Naturalist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Naturalist jobs? The top employers for Naturalist jobs are:
What states have the most Naturalist jobs? States with the most job openings for Naturalist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Naturalist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Naturalist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Naturalist jobs? For Naturalist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Naturalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Naturalist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Internship, 10% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,295 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Seasonal Naturalist

Great Basin Outdoor School

Glenbrook, NV

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Interested in working with young students outdoors in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains?. Great Basin Outdoor School is looking for seasonal naturalists for our spring programs. The naturalist presents environmental education programs for participants of Great Basin Outdoor School.

Qualifications Possess a Bachelor's degree, preferably in the life sciences or education. One year of experience teaching environmental education or natural history. One year of experience working directly with children in an educational setting.

Hold current CPR and First Aid certificate, pass a TB test and background check. Enthusiasm. Areas of Responsibility Plan and present a hands-on, experiential, inquiry-based program in earth sciences, astronomy, and water, wildlife and forest ecology, based on GBOS curriculum and state and national educational standards.

Integrate other subject areas, group process and individual growth, and commitment to responsible use and protection of the environment. Ensure and maintain appropriate student behavior by stating clear expectations and consequences, in accordance with GBOS discipline policies. Coordinate and participate in whole group activities, such as ShareRing, skits, meals, and opening/closing circles.

Ensure the health, welfare, and safety of students, classroom teachers, cabin leaders, and staff. Respond appropriately in a crisis and problem-solve under pressure. Work and communicate effectively as a team member with naturalists, teachers, cabin leaders and students to enhance the program and to empower students and cabin leaders.

The naturalist may also serve, on a rotating basis, as a cabin leader supervisor or program assistant. Essential Functions Ability to use program equipment. Ability to communicate orally with and provide necessary instructions to clients.

Ability to traverse uneven and difficult terrain. Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds. Employment Details Naturalists are exempt, at-will employees of GBOS, and are supervised by the Program Director.

GBOS reserves the right to revise or change job duties as the need arises. Naturalists are paid per week during overnight program sessions in the fall and spring. Day program compensation will vary.

GBOS provides room and board to naturalists during the program week. Room and board is not provided on off program days or weekends. No relocation assistance is provided.

Naturalists are hired conditionally, pending fingerprint and background check, a TB test clearance, verification of employment eligibility (I-9 form) and documentation of current first aid and CPR certification. Fingerprinting for background check may be reimbursed with the first paycheck if receipt is provided; medical examination and first aid and CPR training will not be reimbursed. GBOS is an equal opportunity employer.

We encourage application by qualified people who reflect the cultural and social diversity of the students we serve.

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