ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Naturalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guestservices

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute boat tours. Presenting information on marine mammals, birds and general ecology. The Naturalist is ...

Guestservices

Naturalist

Dania Beach, FL

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute boat tours. Presenting information on marine mammals, birds and general ecology. The Naturalist is ...

Guest Services, Inc.

Naturalist

North Miami Beach, FL · On-site

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute boat tours. Presenting information on marine mammals, birds and general ecology. The Naturalist is ...

Guest Services, Inc.

Naturalist

Dania Beach, FL · On-site

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute boat tours. Presenting information on marine mammals, birds and general ecology. The Naturalist is ...

Guestservices

Naturalist

North Miami Beach, FL

Boat Naturalists are expected to educate, inform and monitor all passengers during our 90 minute boat tours. Presenting information on marine mammals, birds and general ecology. The Naturalist is ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 24, 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 56% Internship, 25% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,295 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Academic Naturalist

The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center

Orange, CA • On-site

$400/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The mission of The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center is to serve all youth of Orange County by providing quality outdoor educational programs that instill in them an appreciation of the outdoors and the environment, teach effective teamwork, instruct about the cultural history of Orange County and provide access to the natural resources of the surrounding areas.

This 210-acre outdoor education center, owned and operated by the Orange County Council, Boy Scouts of America, is located in Orange, California and accessible through Irvine Regional Park. The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center (IROEC) features half-day through five-day academic and recreational programming. Our hands-on approach to outdoor education allows participants to explore the outdoors and science while developing creativity, leadership skills and a respect for the environment.

Job Description

Spring Seasonal Naturalist Position

      We are looking for educated, professional and energetic people for our academic naturalist seasonal position. Come to Orange County, CA and help us mold young minds and have fun too as we teach common core science standards to students. Our coverage in science goes over the field of life science, physical science and earth science.  These include conducting experiments, using our telescopes, digging in our garden and excavating in the Lucy Lou Mine. Also give them a strong appreciation of the outdoors by facilitating hiking, archery, zip lining, rock climbing and even our challenge course. All training is provided and paid for. before schools arrive. Staff is required to work 5 full days a week (normally Mon.-Fri.). Chaperoning at night is a requirement as well. 

    We are looking for staff to join our team through June. The starting pay is $400/ week. The position amenities  includes dorm style housing (rent free), a common room with two refrigerators, WiFi, satellite TV and kitchenette. All meals provided to students will be provided to naturalists. This is a residential camp position. 

Qualifications

2-4 Year Degree

Need to be available for

February 20th through June 9th

Experience teaching (recommended but not required)

Experience with youth (recommended but not required)

Patience and flexibility (long hours and hard work)

The ability to work and live with different personalities

Enjoy working outdoors.




Additional Information

This job is a great experience for multiple reasons. Whether you are looking to get into the academic field, the youth field or the environmental science field, the experience will be beneficial to your future. You'll get experience writing and teaching curriculum, doing environmental projects and creating a fun and safe atmosphere for students of different demographic backgrounds. The work is hard and long, but it's very rewarding. 

Visit our website at www.outdooreducationcenter.org

For more information about our facility or starting a career with us, please call our Academic Director Michael Wallace at 714-923-3191 ext. 110.

Apply