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Assistant Ecologist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Dragonfly Pond Works

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist ... Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation. * Assist in ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist

Woodridge, IL · On-site

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

Dragonfly Pond Works

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist ... Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation. * Assist in ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

West Chicago, IL · On-site

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

Woodridge, IL · On-site

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

Dragonfly Pond Works

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist ... Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation. * Assist in ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Coordinate with construction foreman, project managers and ecologists. * Assist with other duties as assigned or requested. * Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting. * Project ...

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All JobsAssistant Ecologist JobsAssistant Ecologist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Ecologist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$64.3K

$84.5K

How much do assistant ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant ecologist in Chicago, IL is $64,347.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,800.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Ecologist, you need a solid understanding of ecological principles, field survey techniques, and a relevant degree in ecology or environmental science. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), species identification tools, and sometimes protected species licenses are commonly required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in varied field conditions and collaborative projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for collecting accurate data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and contributing valuable insights to conservation efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Ecologists in fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the need to accurately identify plant and animal species during field surveys. To address these, it's important to prepare thoroughly by checking forecasts, wearing appropriate gear, and using field guides or apps for species identification. Strong communication with the team and adaptability in changing scenarios can also help ensure fieldwork runs smoothly and data collected is reliable.

What does an Assistant Ecologist do?

An Assistant Ecologist supports more senior ecologists in conducting field surveys, collecting and analyzing ecological data, and preparing reports on wildlife, plants, and habitats. They help assess the potential impact of development projects on the environment and ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations. Their duties often include habitat mapping, species identification, data entry, and assisting with ecological mitigation measures. This role is entry-level and provides valuable hands-on experience for those interested in a career in ecology or environmental science.

What is the difference between Assistant Ecologist vs Ecologist?

AspectAssistant EcologistEcologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in ecology, environmental science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree; often requires additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data collection, assisting senior staffFieldwork, research, data analysis, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutionsResearch organizations, government departments, environmental consultancies

Assistant Ecologists typically support senior ecologists by conducting fieldwork and data collection, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Ecologists usually have more experience or advanced degrees, leading research roles, data analysis, and project management. Both roles are common in environmental and research sectors, but ecologists generally hold more responsibility and specialized expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL? For Assistant Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Ecologist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Ecologist jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Ecologist job openings:
Assistant Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Ecologist job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,347 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Natural Areas Ecologist

Natural Areas Ecologist

Dragonfly Pond Works

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to be part of a growing environmental company? Dragonfly Pond Works - ILM offers year-round and seasonal opportunities with long-term career potential. Join our "swarm" today!

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist role. This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species control, controlled burns, native seeding, and plant installation-ideal for individuals with a background in Restoration Ecology or a related field.

Location: Waukegan, IL 60085

Pay: $18- $19.50 an hour- Full-time

Requirements
  • Must be at least 21 years of age (unless seasonal)
  • Must have a valid state driver's license. Driving record must meet the minimum requirements of our insurance company.
  • Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or a related field. Bachelor's or Associate Degree preferred.
  • Must obtain an Illinois Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Operators License within first 30 days of employment. Study materials and testing fees will be provided by ILM.
  • Has the physical ability to execute invasive plant control (mechanical and chemical), native seeding, planting, and controlled burning. This includes standing, kneeling, bending, and walking for long periods of time on uneven terrain during all seasons and weather conditions.
  • Has the ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Has basic smartphone and computer skills.
  • Has a basic understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices and plant communities.
  • Team-oriented and aligned with Dragonfly's values: Quality Focus, Takes Ownership, and Growth Oriented.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Control invasive plant species (via herbicide application or mechanical removal).
  • Participate as a burn crew member during controlled burns.
  • Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation.
  • Assist in writing service reports to summarize daily activities.
  • Perform all tasks safely and adhere to company safety policies.
  • Conduct basic maintenance on small engine equipment and hand tools.
  • Take direction from team members as well as crew leaders.
  • Safely drive company vehicles to and from job sites, with or without a trailer.
  • Safely operate specialized equipment (UTVs, Marsh Masters, Skid Steers, Brush Mowers).
  • Accurately record timesheets and submit them to the Manager for approval.
  • Follow company policies as stated in the Employee Handbook.
Benefits & Perks:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) matching
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Referral Bonus
  • Protective Footwear Bonus

Dragonfly Pond Works is a leading environmental service company specializing in stormwater management. Since 2006, Dragonfly has provided routine maintenance and repairs on stormwater devices, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and underground facilities. We are proud to have a very respectful work environment and expect all our employees to adhere to the same standard throughout the organization.

We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro