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Naturalist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation

Naturalist

Carmel, IN

$16/hr

Naturalist (part time) DIVISION: Parks and Natural Resources Division REPORTS TO: Parks Operations Manager - Natural Resources FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt; Part-time; Starting at $16 per hour Purpose of ...

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 ...

EmergencyMD

Director of Education

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Lead, mentor, and develop Education Department staff, volunteers, and Naturalist program participants. * Develop strategic partnerships that advance the Zoo's education and conservation initiatives ...

City of Richmond

Floral Laborer-Seasonal

Richmond, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Work is performed under the close supervision of the Landscape and Naturalist Leader. Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential ...

City of Richmond Indiana

Floral Laborer-Seasonal

Richmond, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Work is performed under the close supervision of the Landscape and Naturalist Leader. Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential ...

City of Richmond

Floral Laborer-Part-Time

Richmond, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Work is performed under the close supervision of the Landscape and Naturalist Leader. Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential ...

Indianapolis Zoo

Director of Education

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Lead, mentor, and develop Education Department staff, volunteers, and Naturalist program participants. * Develop strategic partnerships that advance the Zoo's education and conservation initiatives ...

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All JobsNaturalist JobsNaturalist Jobs in Indiana

Naturalist information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$17

$28

How much do naturalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for naturalist in Indiana is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.23 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 are the most commonly searched types of Naturalist jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Naturalist jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Naturalist jobs in Indiana?

For Naturalist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Naturalist jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Naturalist jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Naturalist jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Naturalist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Naturalist jobs in IN?

For Naturalist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Naturalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Naturalist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Internship, 24% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,440 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Naturalist

Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation

Carmel, IN

$16/hr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

POSITION TITLE: Naturalist (part time)

DIVISION: Parks and Natural Resources Division

REPORTS TO: Parks Operations Manager – Natural Resources

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt; Part-time; Starting at $16 per hour

Purpose of Position

The Naturalist performs administrative, educational, and support functions for the Parks & Natural Resources (PNR) Division, specifically for nature programming. The PNR Division is responsible for natural resource management, volunteer programming, park maintenance, and engaging the community with stewardship opportunities.

Essential Job Functions

  • Able to instruct participants of all ages enthusiastically and effectively regarding nature, recreation, and stewardship.
  • Plans and creates nature programs and educational content for all ages.
  • Uses excellent customer service skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and all members of the public.
  • Supports the division with natural resource management (species ID and mapping, invasives removal and treatment, plantings, and restoration).
  • Educates program participants and park users about applicable park rules and regulations.
  • Updates computer databases, spreadsheets, and various reports including monthly participation numbers and natural resource management opportunities.
  • Supports Citizen Science volunteer program, organizes program data, and engages with participants.
  • Actively engages in volunteer stewardship projects to support logistics and coordinators as needed. Will require some weekend and evening attendance.
  • Reliable attendance and timeliness to scheduled shifts.
  • Attends meetings as required.
  • Performs additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

  • Excellent knowledge of nature, natural resources, and the environment.
  • Ability to work a varied schedule including days, evenings, and weekends.
  • Ability to work outdoors, stand, or walk for long periods of time.
  • Ability to utilize a computer, including MS Office suite, and various databases related to digital forms, natural resource platforms, GIS, and volunteer management.
  • Ability to communicate effectively; includes ability to speak and write clearly and the ability to interact with all members of the public and CCPR staff in a positive manner.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks & situations in a fast-paced environment.
  • High attention to detail and degree of accuracy.
  • Ability to review and edit data.
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions during periods of high volume.
  • Ability to operate a motor vehicle to conduct work activities.

Minimum Qualifications Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 1-3 years of professional work history.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Indiana driver’s license.

Qualifications Preferred to Perform Essential Job Functions:

  • Higher Education in Biology, Environmental Education, Natural Resources, or a related field.
  • Prior teaching/facilitation experience in environmental education preferred.
  • Prior experience working with a variety of ages.
  • Indiana Pesticide Applicator certification or be able to acquire certification within 6 months of hire.

The Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family or marital status, ancestry, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

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