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Naturalist Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Long Lake Conservation Center (LLCC) is looking for Master Naturalist volunteers. LLCC is Minnesota's original conservation center (50+ years), and a leader in outdoor education. About Long Lake ...

$17 - $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 ...

$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 ...

$17.75 - $22.50/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 ...

$18 - $22.75/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 ...

$17.25 - $21.75/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 ...

Naturalist information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$18

$28

How much do naturalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for naturalist in Minnesota is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $19.76 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Naturalist jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Naturalist jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Naturalist jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Naturalist job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Naturalist job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Internship, 26% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,507 per year, or $18 per hour.

LLCC Volunteer Naturalist

Aitkin County

Aitkin, MN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Long Lake Conservation Center (LLCC) is looking for Master Naturalist volunteers. LLCC is Minnesota's original conservation center (50+ years), and a leader in outdoor education.
About Long Lake Conservation Center: Long Lake is located near Palisade, in north-central Minnesota; in the heart of Aitkin County. Long Lake is located 135 miles north of the Twin Cities, 75 miles west of Duluth, and 50 miles northeast of Brainerd. Long Lake is a Residential Environmental Learning Center and Summer Camp for MN youth! For more information about Long Lake visit www.longlakecc.org!
Supervision Received
Volunteers working in this job class work under general supervision and usually receive some instruction with respect to details of most assignments, but are free to develop their own work sequences within established procedures, methods, and policies. They are often physically removed from their supervisor and are only subject to periodic supervisory checks.
Supervision Exercised
No formal supervisor authority.
Our Vision: We strive to be a county of safe, vibrant communities that place value on good stewardship of local resources.
Our Mission: Aitkin County's mission is to provide outstanding service in a fiscally responsible manner through innovation and collaboration with respect for all.
Our Core Values: Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, People-Focused, Professionalism