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Naturalist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$16.75 - $21/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$17 - $21.50/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

Global Treks and Adventures

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland. The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they ...

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 ...

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

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-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 ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 be a naturalist without a degree?

A naturalist can often work in roles such as environmental education or outdoor guiding without a formal degree, but many positions prefer or require relevant education or certifications in biology, ecology, or related fields. Practical experience, knowledge of local ecosystems, and skills in observation and communication are also important for naturalist roles.

What are naturalists and what do they 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 is the highest paying conservation job?

The highest paying conservation jobs are often senior roles such as conservation directors, environmental managers, or policy advisors, which can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills in environmental science or policy.

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 observes plants, animals, and ecosystems to understand their behaviors and relationships. They often work outdoors in parks, reserves, or research facilities, conducting fieldwork, collecting data, and educating the public about nature. Skills in observation, data collection, and environmental education are essential for this role.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A naturalist typically does not earn $4,000 a week without a degree, as most roles in this field are entry-level or require specialized education. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial diving, certain sales positions, or entrepreneurship, but these are not directly related to naturalist roles. Earning such high weekly income usually involves experience, certifications, or business ownership rather than a standard naturalist position.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,440 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Naturalist

Naturalist

State of Indiana

Marshall, IN • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education.
Turkey Run State Park is the second park to join the Indiana state park system. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is in the path of the 2024 solar eclipse. Multiple indigenous tribes inhabited the area. The park is thought to be named for the wild turkeys that gathered in the deep sandstone ravines ("runs"). The 2,382-acre forested park offers camping, fishing, hiking, horse rides, and an Inn. The Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin commemorates the contributions of the father of Indiana's state park system.
Role Overview:
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 core responsibilities include but are not limited to the following; public education, content creation, conservation and habitat management. This position will focuses heavily on storytelling, exhibits, and face-to-face interactions with visitors. Working weekends, holidays, and evenings is a must.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
  • Plan, coordinate, and present various educational programs for property visitors as well as for the community.
  • Manage a nature center and/or other interpretive facility which includes hiring and training seasonal naturalist aides and support staff.
  • Conduct research, develop inventory, and coordinate active management of the natural and cultural resources of the property.
  • Develop and maintain brochures and bulletin boards.
  • Maintain aquariums, terrariums, and vivarium, including the care of live educational animals.
  • Manage the property's social media and other online platforms.
  • Assist in the development of new nature center facilities or visitor centers and associated exhibits.
  • Coordinate interpretive activities with central office staff and property managers.
  • Interact with property visitors daily and respond to requests in writing for information from the public.
  • Plan and organize special events and festivals on the property, or on other DNR properties.
  • Oversee maintenance of the facility and exhibit construction work by skilled craft-persons.
  • Manage the property volunteer program and serve as liaison with the property friends' group and other partners as appropriate.
  • Recruit, select, onboard, and train employees to ensure role responsibilities and expectations are clearly understood while providing opportunities to continue professional development.
  • Set expectations, measure progress, provide ongoing feedback, and evaluate the performance of employees. Ensure work adheres to quality standards, deadlines, and proper procedures.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
  • Thorough knowledge of natural resources principles and theories of interpretation and environmental education.
  • Thorough knowledge of natural resources rules and regulations and the ability to explain and interpret them to the public.
  • Thorough knowledge of federal and state regulations regarding migratory birds and endangered species.
  • Ability to plan and present programs, exhibits, demonstrations and videos in a creative and imaginative manner that are cohesive, thematic, and engaging.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to manage and interact professionally through social media channels.
  • Working knowledge of special event planning techniques and logistics.
  • Working knowledge of volunteer management techniques and practices.
  • Ability to delegate work, set clear direction, and manage workflow
  • Ability to effectively give feedback, provide guidance or corrective action, coach, and develop employee skillsets
  • Certification as a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation, or willingness to obtain certification within first year of employment.

Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources, Biology, History, Interpretation (Cultural and/or Natural), Outdoor Recreation or related field preferred.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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