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Biological Survey Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Biological Technician

$38K - $47K/yr

Technicians collect and process biological samples and environmental data during fishery ... Work includes at-sea survey participation (5-140+ days annually), data QA/QC, sample processing ...

$38 - $50/hr

This position works alongside our clients, both in government and the private industry, to provide biological surveys, delineations, assessments and reports. Candidates will typically monitor ...

$38 - $50/hr

This position works alongside our clients, both in government and the private industry, to provide biological surveys, delineations, assessments and reports. Candidates will typically monitor ...

Biologist / Field Lead

Houston, TX · On-site

$62K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Complete biological surveys serving as the lead wetland delineator/biologist. * Conduct biological monitoring and environmental inspection of construction projects and provide environmental training ...

Biological Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$37K - $46K/yr

Biological Technicians - NOAA Fisheries Sea-Going Surveys (Levels I-III) Location: Woods Hole, MA (with assignments on NOAA and partner vessels throughout the Northeast U.S.) Position Summary Orchard ...

On Call Biologist

Riverside, CA · On-site

$27.55 - $34.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Your Impact Assist with multiple biological field surveys and environmental compliance tasks, including: * Conduct pedestrian surveys for wildlife, vegetation, and sensitive habitats * Perform ...

Biological Technician III

Woods Hole, MA · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

The Biological Technician will collect and process biological samples and environmental data during ... Work includes at-sea survey participation (100+ days annually), data QA/QC, sample processing, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Biological Survey information

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$31K

$42.1K

$56K

How much do biological survey jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological survey in the United States is $42,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced during fieldwork in biological survey roles, and how can they be managed?

Biological survey professionals often encounter challenges such as difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited access to remote survey sites. Managing these challenges typically involves thorough planning, use of specialized equipment (like GPS devices and protective gear), and close collaboration with team members to ensure safety and data accuracy. Flexibility and adaptability are also important, as field conditions may require adjusting methods or schedules to achieve reliable results. Regular communication and debriefs help teams address issues promptly and maintain the integrity of survey data.

What is a biological survey?

A biological survey is a systematic study conducted to identify, record, and assess the presence, abundance, and distribution of living organisms within a specific area or ecosystem. These surveys are crucial for understanding biodiversity, monitoring environmental changes, and informing conservation efforts. Biological surveys may focus on particular species, groups of organisms, or entire ecosystems, and are often used by ecologists, conservationists, and land managers to make data-driven decisions.

What is the difference between Biological Survey vs Biological Technician?

AspectBiological SurveyBiological Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in biology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research sites, laboratoriesFieldwork, laboratory, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental firmsEnvironmental consulting, research projects, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in ecological assessments and field researchOften compared as a supporting role in biological data collection

Biological Survey and Biological Technician roles both involve fieldwork and data collection in ecological settings. However, Biological Surveys typically require a higher level of education and involve designing and leading research projects, while Biological Technicians focus on supporting data collection and laboratory work. Both roles are essential in environmental and ecological industries, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a biological survey role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Biological Survey role, you need a solid background in biology or ecology, strong fieldwork skills, and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, data collection tools, and sometimes certifications like HAZWOPER or specific wildlife handling permits are typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collecting accurate data and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies ensure reliable survey results that inform conservation efforts and environmental management decisions.
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What cities are hiring for Biological Survey jobs?

Cities with the most Biological Survey job openings:

What states have the most Biological Survey jobs?

States with the most job openings for Biological Survey jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Biological Survey jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Biological Survey jobs are:

Infographic showing various Biological Survey job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,105 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$38K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Biological Technicians - NOAA Fisheries Sea-Going Surveys (Levels I-III)
Location: Woods Hole, MA (with assignments on NOAA and partner vessels throughout the Northeast U.S.)
Position Summary
Orchard is hiring Biological Technicians (Levels I-III) to support NOAA Fisheries' Ecosystem Surveys Branch (ESB). Technicians collect and process biological samples and environmental data during fishery-independent resource surveys. Work includes at-sea survey participation (5-140+ days annually), data QA/QC, sample processing, and equipment support. This is a hands-on science role that directly supports stock assessments and ecosystem-based fisheries management.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in sea-going surveys aboard NOAA and partner vessels (sorting, identifying, weighing, measuring fish/invertebrates, collecting biological samples for age, growth, maturity, genetics, diet).
  • Stand scientific watches of up to 12 hours/day at sea.
  • Operate electronic data acquisition systems for fisheries and oceanographic sampling.
  • Assist with deployment, calibration, and maintenance of survey gear, acoustics, and optical/video equipment.
  • Conduct QA/QC of survey data using NOAA protocols; prepare documentation of sampling procedures and metadata.
  • Annotate benthic imagery and optical survey data as directed.
  • Maintain, repair, and inventory sampling hardware (measuring boards, motion-compensated scales, barcode systems, touch screens).
  • Support cruise staging/de-staging, equipment prep, and vessel logistics.
  • Contribute to laboratory analysis of biological samples and assist with database management.
  • Train new staff (Levels II & III) and provide leadership of field parties/watches at sea (Level III).
  • Summarize survey data, assist with reports, and contribute to outreach materials (manuals, protocols, blogs, newsletters).
Qualifications
General Requirements (all levels):
  • Experience working aboard research or commercial vessels.
  • Ability to work 12-hour shifts at sea for trips lasting up to 3 weeks.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills in challenging field environments.
  • Must meet NOAA OMAO sea duty health criteria and provide proof of recent TB test.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with data entry and QA/QC practices.
  • Valid driver's license.

Level I (Entry/Seasonal Technician):
  • Basic familiarity with marine species ID in the Northwest Atlantic (fish/invertebrates).
  • Coursework or experience in biological sciences preferred.
  • Able to assist with sampling, data recording, and shipboard organization under supervision.

Level II (Experienced Technician):
  • Minimum 2 years' experience identifying fish and invertebrates in the Northwest Atlantic.
  • At least 1 year of experience with survey bottom trawls or shellfish dredges.
  • Experience with fishery sampling hardware (electronic boards, scales, barcode systems).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently.

Level III (Senior Technician):
  • Minimum 200 days at sea (Bottom Trawl Survey) or 100 days (Shellfish/Advanced Tech Surveys).
  • At least 2 years' experience with electronic data acquisition systems.
  • Experience leading watches/field teams of up to 7 at sea.
  • Familiarity with acoustic net mensuration systems (Scanmar, Simrad, Marport).
  • Experience querying/analyzing fishery-independent data from relational databases (e.g., Oracle).
  • Ability to train staff, conduct QA/QC, and contribute to protocol development.