Department: Naturalist / Experiences

Position: Naturalist

Reports To: General Manager / Resort Manager / Head Naturalist

Location: Forest Resort

1. Job Purpose

To create meaningful and memorable nature-based experiences for guests by interpreting the local flora, fauna, wildlife, ecology and culture, while ensuring guest safety, responsible tourism practices and high standards of hospitality.
1. Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Nature Activities

- Conduct guided nature walks, forest walks, bird-watching sessions and other nature-based activities.
- Conduct wildlife and nature interpretation sessions for guests.
- Explain local flora, fauna, birds, insects, trees, medicinal plants and ecological systems in an engaging manner.
- Provide personalized experiences based on guest interests, age and physical ability.
- Conduct evening interpretation sessions, presentations, talks and storytelling activities.
- Assist guests with wildlife observation, photography and nature exploration.

Wildlife & Nature Knowledge

- Maintain updated knowledge of Wayanad's biodiversity, wildlife, birds, butterflies, trees and plants.
- Observe and document wildlife and bird sightings.
- Maintain regular records of significant sightings and natural observations.
- Research local ecology, conservation, tribal culture and the history of the landscape.
- Continuously develop new stories, interpretation material and nature experiences.

Guest Safety

- Conduct pre-activity safety briefings.
- Assess weather, terrain and environmental conditions before outdoor activities.
- Ensure guests follow safety guidelines and responsible wildlife practices.
- Carry and maintain required safety equipment and first-aid kits.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies according to resort SOPs.
- Follow ethical and responsible guiding practices.

Activity Planning & Operations

- Prepare and maintain the daily activity schedule.




- Inspect nature trails and activity areas before taking guests.
- Ensure binoculars, torches, field guides, first-aid kits and other activity equipment are clean and ready.
- Coordinate guest activity schedules with Front Office and Guest Relations.
- Maintain activity participation and guest feedback records.
- Assist in developing new nature-based activities and experiences.

Conservation & Sustainability

- Promote responsible tourism and environmentally conscious practices.
- Conduct guest awareness sessions on conservation, biodiversity and sustainability.
- Support resort conservation and environmental initiatives.
- Encourage guests to respect wildlife, forest habitats and local communities.
- Identify opportunities for biodiversity enhancement and habitat improvement.

Interdepartmental Coordination

- Coordinate closely with Front Office, F&B;, Housekeeping, Engineering and other departments.
- Communicate guest requirements and special activity arrangements.
- Support VIP and special guest experiences.
- Assist in resort events, employee engagement activities and special nature programmes whenever required.

1. Guest Service Standards

- Maintain a warm, professional and approachable attitude.
- Demonstrate excellent communication and storytelling skills.
- Understand guest preferences and customize experiences accordingly.
- Handle guest queries confidently and professionally.
- Obtain and act upon guest feedback.
- Ensure every nature experience reflects the resort's standards and philosophy.

1. Qualifications & Experience

- Degree/Diploma in Wildlife, Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science,



Forestry, Hospitality, Tourism or a related field is preferred.
- Prior experience in a wildlife resort, eco-tourism property, nature interpretation or guiding is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of local flora, fauna and wildlife.
- Good spoken English; knowledge of Malayalam and other Indian languages is an advantage.
- Basic knowledge of first aid and outdoor safety.
- Valid driving licence is an advantage where driving is part of the role.
- Strong interest in wildlife, nature and conservation.

1. Key Skills

- Nature interpretation
- Wildlife identification
- Bird identification
- Storytelling and communication
- Guest handling
- Outdoor activity management
- Risk assessment and safety awareness
- Photography and observation skills
- Research and documentation
- Teamwork and coordination
- Conservation awareness
- Problem-solving

1. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

- Guest satisfaction and feedback
- Quality and frequency of nature activities conducted
- Accuracy and quality of interpretation
- Guest safety and SOP compliance
- Activity participation levels
- Wildlife/bird sighting documentation
- Development of recent nature experiences
- Equipment and trail maintenance
- Contribution to conservation and sustainability initiatives
- Effective coordination with other departments

1. Working Conditions

The Naturalist will be required to work primarily outdoors and may be required to work during early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays. The role involves walking on uneven terrain and working in varying weather and forest conditions. Note: The Naturalist may be assigned additional duties related to guest experiences, conservation activities and resort operations as required by management.

Pay: ₹18,494.00 - ₹21,000.00 per month

Benefits

- Flexible schedule
- Food provided
- Provident Fund

Work Location: In person

📌 Associate -Guest Service (Wayanad)
🏢 Wayanad wild CGH
📍 Wayanad