ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Naturalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lancaster County

Naturalist PT

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$19.93/hr

The Park Naturalist plans, develops, and presents high-quality programs for environmental education, natural history, outdoor recreation and interpretive programs for private groups and the general ...

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

Naturalists are assigned to any of the geographic interpretive sectors or Mobile Education. IDEAL CANDIDATE: Team Collaboration * Enjoys working independently and collaboratively to develop and lead ...

New

Lancaster County

Naturalist PT

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$19.93/hr

The Park Naturalist plans, develops, and presents high-quality programs for environmental education, natural history, outdoor recreation and interpretive programs for private groups and the general ...

New

allencounty

Metea Park - Part Time Naturalist

Parks, AZ · On-site

$14/hr

NATURALIST DEPARTMENT: PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT HOURS: 24 HOURS PER WEEK SHIFT TIME VARIES - INCLUDES NIGHTS, WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS SALARY: $14.00 PER HOUR DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED 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 ...

Lake Metroparks

Seasonal Naturalist

Kirtland Hills, OH

$12 - $16/hr

Naturalist - Seasonal (Non-Exempt) Rate: $12.00 starting hourly to $16.00 hourly rate Pay Grade: SEA | Starting salary based on prior experience and education. Location: Penitentiary Glen Reservation ...

City of Rockville

Naturalist

Rockville, MD

$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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment JobsParks and Recreation JobsOutdoor Recreation Specialist JobsNaturalist Jobs

Naturalist information

See salary details

$9

$18

$29

How much do naturalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 about ecosystems, and documenting wildlife and plant species, often requiring knowledge of biology and environmental science.
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 78% Internship, 12% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% 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 • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 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.

Apply