Head Naturalist

Aramness; Gujarat; On-site; INR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Aramness seeks a Head Naturalist to lead the lodge's naturalist team in Girgadhda, Gujarat. You will design and deliver high-quality guided safaris and nature walks, providing engaging interpretation of wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture to guests.

You will cultivate environmental education programs, stay updated on wildlife movements, and ensure safety and conservation standards. Daily duties include planning activities, mentoring staff, and collaborating with authorities and researchers.

Qualifications

• Degree in wildlife sciences or related field is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of local Gujarat wildlife species.
• Experience in designing and delivering educational programs.
• Proven leadership and project coordination abilities.
• Ability to work in remote field conditions with safety awareness.
• Excellent spoken English; local language skills a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the lodge's naturalist team and plan guided safaris.
• Develop and deliver interpretive talks and walks for guests.
• Mentor junior naturalists and coordinate schedules.
• Collaborate with park authorities, researchers, and conservation partners.
• Maintain field records and support monitoring initiatives.
• Contribute to conservation projects and environmental education programs.

Skills

Wildlife ecology

Conservation

Effective communication

Environmental education

Project management

Leadership

Field data collection

Safari lodge experience

English proficiency

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Wildlife Sciences or related field

Job description

Company Description

Aramness is a boutique, village-style safari lodge inspired by the culture and landscapes of Gujarat, located on the border of Sasan Gir National Park. The lodge combines authentic local design with refined comfort, offering guests an immersive wildlife experience centered on connection with place. Its name blends the Gujarati words for peace and village, reflecting a philosophy of tranquility, community, and respect for nature. Aramness is uniquely positioned where the world’s last remaining Asiatic lions share their habitat with the semi-nomadic Maldhari tribe. The lodge is committed to supporting wildlife conservation and honoring the natural environment and local communities.

Role Description

The Head Naturalist is a full-time, on-site role based at Aramness in Girgadhda. This role leads the lodge’s naturalist team, designs and delivers high-quality guided safaris and nature walks, and provides guests with engaging, accurate interpretation of local wildlife, ecosystems, and cultural heritage. The Head Naturalist develops and oversees environmental education programs, maintains up-to-date knowledge of wildlife movements and behavior, and ensures all activities follow best-practice safety and conservation standards. Daily responsibilities include planning and scheduling guest activities, mentoring and training junior naturalists, coordinating with operations and guest services, and contributing to lodge projects related to conservation, research, and community engagement. The role also involves maintaining field records, supporting data collection and monitoring initiatives, and representing Aramness in collaborations with park authorities, researchers, and conservation partners.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in wildlife, ecology, and conservation, with in-depth knowledge of local species and habitats.
• Excellent communication and interpretive skills to educate and engage diverse guests and partners.
• Experience in environmental education, including designing and delivering programs, talks, and guided activities.
• Proven project management and leadership abilities for coordinating tours, team schedules, and conservation initiatives.
• Research skills for field data collection, monitoring, documentation, and collaboration with scientific stakeholders.
• Relevant academic background in wildlife sciences, ecology, environmental studies, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in safari lodges, nature-based tourism, or similar field-based hospitality environments.
• Ability to work in remote settings, adapt to changing field conditions, and uphold safety and ethical wildlife viewing standards.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.