Naturalist salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Naturalist in South Africa is approximately 84,339 ZAR (4,202 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Naturalist do?

A naturalist is a professional who studies and observes the natural world, including plants, animals, ecosystems, and geological formations. They conduct field research, collect data, and analyze their findings to better understand the environment and its inhabitants. Naturalists often work in national parks, wildlife reserves, museums, or research institutions. They may specialize in specific areas such as ornithology (study of birds), herpetology (study of reptiles and amphibians), or botany (study of plants). Their work involves identifying and cataloging species, monitoring populations, studying animal behavior, and assessing the impact of human activities on the environment. Naturalists also play a crucial role in promoting conservation efforts and educating the public about environmental issues. They may lead guided nature walks, give presentations, or write articles to raise awareness and foster a deeper appreciation for nature.

Skills: naturalist, field research, environmental science, biodiversity, conservation, wildlife observation
Job industry: Environmental science

How much does Naturalist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Naturalist a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Naturalist is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Naturalist might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Naturalist?

High salary for Naturalist would be somewhere between 92,773 ZAR and 122,292 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Naturalist in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 84,339 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,028 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,622 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 41 ZAR per hour
By working as Naturalist a person can save up to 79 USD per month or 948 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Naturalist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

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