Naturalist

Naturalist Job Duties

A naturalist typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

- Identifying and documenting plant and animal species in the environment using scientific techniques such as observation, data collection, and analysis
- Identifying sources of pollution and educating the public on environmental issues such as recycling, water conservation, and energy efficiency
- Studying ecosystems and writing reports on findings or presenting results at conferences
- Advising businesses on how to protect their operations from environmental threats (such as oil spills or chemical leaks)
- Teaching students about nature through field trips, laboratory activities, and other hands-on experiences
- Assisting with ecological research by conducting experiments or collecting data for other scientists
- Conducting research on topics such as animal behavior, habitat selection, or population dynamics
- Collecting specimens for museums or conducting surveys to determine species diversity in an area
- Identifying sources of pollution and educating the public on environmental issues such as recycling, water conservation, and energy efficiency

Naturalist Job Requirements
A naturalist typically needs to have the following qualifications:
**Education**: Naturalists typically need a bachelor’s degree to work in the field. A bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science or a similar field is a common requirement for naturalists. These programs typically include coursework in biology, ecology, botany, zoology and environmental science.

**Training & Experience**: Naturalists typically receive on-the-job training in the form of a period of employment with a natural history museum or park. During this period, they learn about the organization’s mission, the types of programs and activities they offer and the types of visitors they typically receive. They also learn about the organization’s facilities and resources and how to interact with visitors.

Naturalist Skills
Naturalists need the following skills in order to be successful:
**Observation**: Naturalists use observation skills to identify plants and animals and understand their behaviors. Observation skills can help you notice changes in the environment, such as the migration patterns of birds or the appearance of new plant life. You can also use observation skills to notice changes in the behavior of animals, which can help you understand their needs and protect them.

**Communication**: Naturalists often communicate with others to share their knowledge about the natural world. They may also communicate with other naturalists to share their observations and collaborate on research projects. Communication skills can help you explain complex scientific concepts to the public and encourage others to protect the environment.

**Problem-solving**: Naturalists use problem-solving skills to find solutions to challenges they encounter in the field. For example, if a naturalist is observing a rare animal and they accidentally scare it away, they might use their problem-solving skills to find a new way to observe the animal. They might use their knowledge of animal behavior to find a new location where they can observe the animal or they might use their knowledge of animal behavior to predict where the animal will reappear.

**Time management**: Time management is the ability to plan and execute tasks in a timely manner. Naturalists often have multiple projects they need to complete in a short period of time. For example, if they’re studying a specific species, they may need to observe it for a certain amount of time, collect data and then write a report about their findings. Having good time management skills can help them complete their projects efficiently.

**Curiosity**: Curiosity is the desire to learn more about the world around you. Naturalists are naturally curious about the natural world and enjoy learning about new plants, animals and ecosystems. Curiosity can help you develop new skills and knowledge as a naturalist.
Naturalist Work Environment
Naturalists typically work in parks, forests, nature preserves, zoos, or museums. They may also work for environmental consulting firms, government agencies, or private companies. Many naturalists are self-employed and work as consultants or freelance writers. Some work in offices, but they also spend a great deal of time outdoors, conducting field research or leading nature tours and hikes. They may work in all kinds of weather and terrain, and some positions may require travel. Naturalists typically work a standard 40-hour week, but they may work evenings or weekends to accommodate the schedules of the people or organizations they work for. They may also work overtime during busy periods, such as the summer months.
Naturalist Trends
Here are three trends influencing how naturalists work. Naturalists will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant a