Naturalist (Seasonal)

City of Fort Wayne; Fort Wayne (IN); Hybrid; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government agency in Fort Wayne is seeking a passionate Naturalist to connect people with nature. The role involves leading hikes, maintaining trails, and engaging visitors to enforce park rules. Candidates should have a high school diploma, 2+ years of relevant experience, and demonstrate strong communication skills. The position offers the chance to make a positive impact in the community while working in outdoor environments. Join this supportive team to grow your skills while enriching the lives of others.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in education or naturalist work.
• Comfortable hiking 4 miles/day and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Strong communication, teaching, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead hikes, programs, and day camps that bring nature to life.
• Maintain trails, facilities, and natural spaces.
• Engage visitors, answer questions, and enforce park rules.
• Support events, outreach, and volunteer activities.
• Track attendance, manage deposits, and keep records.

Skills

Outdoor skills: hiking, fire building, basic construction/maintenance

Hand and power tool use

Recordkeeping and basic math

Education

High school diploma/GED

College coursework in biology or environmental science

Job description

Explore. Teach. Inspire. If you love the outdoors and connecting people to nature, this is your role.

Naturalist

What You'll Do

• Lead hikes, programs, and day camps that bring nature to life.
• Maintain trails, facilities, and natural spaces.
• Engage visitors, answer questions, and enforce park rules.
• Support events, outreach, and volunteer activities.
• Track attendance, manage deposits, and keep records.

What You Bring

• High school diploma/GED; college coursework in biology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• 2+ years experience in education, naturalist work, or outdoor programs.
• Comfortable hiking 4 miles/day and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Strong communication, teaching, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Certifications

• First Aid & CPR (AHA) within 2 weeks of hire.
• Valid Indiana driver’s license if using City vehicles.

Skills & Knowledge

• Outdoor skills: hiking, fire building, basic construction/maintenance.
• Hand and power tool use.
• Recordkeeping and basic math.

Why Work for the City of Fort Wayne

Connect people to nature, make an impact in your community, and grow your skills in a hands‑on, supportive environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of applicable drug screening, physical examination, and background checks.