Naturalists

Earnings for naturalists are influenced by several factors, including the naturalist's specific job (for example, a wildlife biologist, a water and soil conservationist, or a game manager), the employer (for example, a state or federal agency), and the naturalist's experience and education.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) reports that biologists working for this department have starting salaries at the GS-5 to GS-7 levels. In 2025, biologists at the GS-5 pay level earned annual salaries that ranged from $34,454 to $44,786, and those at the GS-7 level earned annual salaries that ranged from $42,679 to $55,486. The USFWS further reports that biologists can expect to advance to GS-11 or GS-12 levels. In 2025, basic yearly pay at these levels was $63,163 and $75,706, respectively.

In general, those working for state agencies have somewhat lower earnings, particularly at the entry level. And, again, the specific job a naturalist performs affects earnings. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that conservation scientists had a median annual salary of $68,750 in May 2023. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $42,850, and the top paid 10 percent made more than $105,460. However, some conservation workers put in 40-hour weeks and make less than $20,000 annually. As with other fields, management positions are among the highest paying. The candidate who meets the qualifications for management positions must typically have a bachelor's degree in wildlife management or other related field and at least two years of experience in wildlife resources work.

For some positions, housing and vehicles may be provided. Other benefits, depending on employer, may include health insurance, vacation time, and retirement plans.