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Naturalist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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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.

Seasonal Natural Resources Worker - Shakamak State Park

State of Indiana

Jasonville, IN • On-site

$12.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st 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 diverse 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 Shakamak State Park:
Shakamak has three man-made lakes that provide 400 acres of water. The park also has a family aquatic center that offers additional recreation opportunities. Individual and group camping sites are mostly wooded, making them popular sites because they are shaded and cool during summer seasons. Campsites range from primitive to full hook-up. Activities include basketball, boating, cabin rentals, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, and tennis.
Salary Statement:
The hourly wage for seasonal positions varies, starting at $12.25/hour.
A Day in the Life:
The Seasonal Natural Resources Workers provide customer service and education to visitors about park features while maintaining the property's natural resources. Seasonal Natural Resources Worker positions and their essential functions are as follows:
  • Interpretive Specialists: Educate the public on property-specific nature, history, culture, and park services through memorable experiences.
  • Naturalist Aides: Assists with education of the nature center programming, local/common flora and fauna, and local/common animal species. This position may also assist in the care of animals (feeding, watering, and bedding changes) and the general maintenance of the nature center.
  • Village Workers (Spring Mill State Park Only): Assists with education of period-appropriate trades, techniques, and crafts while presenting cultural history. Trades include woodworking, leatherwork, broom-making, blacksmith, weaving, and milling.
  • Cave Tour Guides (O'Bannon Woods State Park Only): Educate the general public on the natural history of caves. Tour Guides assist with scheduling reservations and collecting tour fees. Further, research may be required on the identification and care of relevant flora and fauna. Tour Guides are expected to maintain boats, equipment, and the registration shed.
  • Resource Management Techs: Assists with the control of invasive plant species natural area restoration trail maintenance, brush and tree removal, signage, timber marking and/or timber stand improvement based on the property.

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.
What You'll Need for Success:
You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment:
  • High school diploma, GED, or one (1) year of work experience
  • May be expected to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • May be required to wear a DNR-provided uniform
  • May be required to travel to different properties
  • May experience working in potentially inclement weather
  • May experience working with DOC work release crews
  • May be required to have a valid driver's license.
  • May perform duties in a variety of different environments, including an office environment, field environment, rugged terrain, and various adverse weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, sleet, etc.).
  • May work around potentially dangerous heavy equipment (e.g. tractors, disks, mowers, planters, etc.).
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
This seasonal position does not offer benefits and is limited to 180 working days in an eleven (11) month continuous period
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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