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Naturalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guestservices

$33.75 - $37/hr

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 ...

Aitkin County

LLCC Volunteer Naturalist

Aitkin, MN · On-site

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 ...

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How much do naturalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.

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
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Naturalist jobs near you

Teacher Naturalist Seashore Program (3 positions)

Dennis Yarmouth Regional School District

Truro, MA • On-site

$135/day

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
NEED Academy/Need Teacher Naturalist
Date Posted:
4/28/2026
Location:
NEED Academy, Cape Cod National Seashore, Truro MA
Date Available:
09/12/2026
Closing Date:
06/01/2026
START DATE: September 12, 2026 through June 7, 2027
SCHEDULE: Work week during residential programs is Monday 8 am through Friday 2 pm. Each Teacher/Naturalist has one day (9:30-4:00) and one evening (after 7 pm) off during the work week. Weeks that are day programs only have daily hours Monday- Friday 8 am to 4 pm. Weekends are free.
COMPENSATION: $135/day (2025-2026 rate, 2026-2027 rate is to be determined). Salary is based on days worked over the entire year and is paid bi-weekly.
All internal applicants who are interested in this position should apply within ten days of this posting.
All applicants must be fingerprinted prior to hiring. Additional information regarding fingerprinting including scheduling an appointment may be found on our website.
SUMMARY:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Teacher/Naturalists lead 3 hikes/lessons per day for their teaching group.
  • Teachers develop and present experiential lessons based on the MA Education Frameworks and Next Generation SS.
  • Lessons are centered on the local environments (Beach & Dune, Dune Forest, Kettlehole Pond, Saltmarsh, Freshwater Swamps) and history (Pilgrims, Shipwrecks & U.S. Lifesaving Service).
  • Lessons also include: Nightwalk, Group Dynamics, and Pizza Making.
  • Teachers are also responsible on a rotating basis for helping with meal preparation and serving, bedtime duties, group supervision during short bus trips to various natural and historical areas of the outer Cape, and the overall care and maintenance of the facility.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • B.S. or equivalent experience required.
  • Current CPR & First Aid certification.
  • Love of being outdoors in all kinds of weather on the great outer beach of the Cape Cod National Seashore and a background/experience in teaching, natural history interpretation, marine science, or general ecology strongly recommended.
  • Experience with youth, residential education, and facilitating team building preferred.
  • Candidates with current CDL and willing to undergo School Bus driver training are strongly encouraged to apply.

PRIMARY JOB CONTACT:
Eleanor Moody, Director of the NEED Academy
NEED Academy
111 N Pamet Rd
Truro, Massachusetts 02666
Phone: (508) 349-3475

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