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Biologist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Senior Biologist

Lake Oswego, OR

$78K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a full-time Biologist for our Earth and Environment Section - Pacific Northwest Environmental Impact Assessment and Permitting group working hybrid out of Seattle ...

IB Biology Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online IB Biology tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Biologist information

See Portland, OR salary details

$39.2K

$94.8K

$146.3K

How much do biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for biologist in Portland, OR is $94,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biologist, you need a strong background in biological sciences, analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and sometimes specialized certifications (like biosafety or animal handling) is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting accurate research, ensuring safety, and advancing scientific understanding.

What are some typical challenges biologists face when conducting field research?

Biologists conducting field research often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, remote or difficult-to-access locations, and the need to adapt quickly to unexpected changes in their environment or research subjects. They must also ensure proper documentation and sample preservation, sometimes with limited resources or technology in the field. Collaborating with local teams and adhering to ethical guidelines for wildlife and environmental protection are crucial parts of the process.

What is the difference between Biologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectBiologistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology or related field; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; may include certifications in environmental management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, outdoor habitatsFieldwork, laboratories, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, biotech companiesGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, NGOs

While both Biologists and Environmental Scientists study living organisms, Biologists focus more on understanding biological processes and conducting research in labs or natural habitats. Environmental Scientists apply biological principles to address environmental issues, often working in field settings and policy-related roles. The roles overlap in education and some work environments, but their primary focus and applications differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Biologist jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Biologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Biologist jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Biologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Biologist jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Biologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Biologist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,813 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Biologist/Project Manager (Hybrid)

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

402nd of 447 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a highly motivated Biologist / Project Manager to support renewable energy, transmission, battery storage, and other infrastructure projects throughout the United States. The successful candidate will manage biological resource projects from proposal development through project completion, while providing technical leadership related to wildlife, wetlands, permitting, and environmental compliance.
This position combines project management responsibilities with biological expertise and will involve managing project teams, budgets, schedules, client relationships, regulatory coordination, and biological studies supporting energy development projects.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Your Role:
Project Management
  • Manage biological resource and environmental permitting projects from initiation through completion.
  • Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and cost estimates.
  • Monitor project performance, budgets, invoicing, and deliverables.
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams consisting of biologists, environmental scientists, GIS specialists, and permitting professionals.
  • Ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and consistent with client expectations.
  • Support proposal preparation, staffing plans, and project forecasting.

Client & Agency Coordination
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for clients on assigned projects.
  • Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies regarding biological resource issues and permitting requirements.
  • Participate in agency consultations, stakeholder meetings, and client strategy discussions.
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, agencies, and project stakeholders.

Biological & Permitting Support
  • Provide technical oversight for biological resource studies and environmental permitting efforts.
  • Support projects involving:
    • Endangered Species Act (ESA)
    • National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
    • Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA)
    • Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)
    • Clean Water Act (CWA)
  • Review biological surveys, technical reports, permit applications, and regulatory documentation.
  • Support development of Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs), Biological Assessments (BAs), Eagle Conservation Plans (ECPs), and other environmental compliance documents.
  • Provide technical guidance on wildlife, wetland, and habitat-related issues associated with renewable energy development.

Team Leadership
  • Lead and mentor junior and mid-level staff.
  • Coordinate staff assignments and workload planning.
  • Review technical work products and provide quality assurance and quality control.
  • Support staff development through training and mentorship.
  • Foster collaboration across project teams and offices.

Business Development
  • Support business development initiatives and client account growth.
  • Assist with proposal preparation, interviews, and project pursuits.
  • Identify opportunities for additional services and project support.
  • Contribute to strategic growth of the renewable energy and environmental services practice.
  • Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards
  • Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness
  • Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns
  • Perform additional duties as required

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • 5-8 years of professional experience in environmental consulting, biological resources, natural resources management, or related fields.
  • Demonstrated project management experience, including management of budgets, schedules, scopes, and project teams.
  • Experience supporting environmental permitting and compliance projects.
  • Strong understanding of wildlife ecology, habitat assessment, and biological resource management.
  • Excellent technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Experience coordinating with clients, agencies, subcontractors, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting renewable energy projects including wind, solar, battery storage, and transmission facilities.
  • Experience with ESA, NEPA, BGEPA, MBTA, and state wildlife regulations.
  • Experience managing biological surveys and environmental permitting efforts.
  • Experience supervising staff and mentoring junior biologists.
  • Existing relationships with regulatory agencies and industry clients.
  • Experience preparing proposals and supporting business development efforts.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
  • Combination of office, remote, and field-based work environments.
  • Ability to travel periodically for project meetings, agency consultations, client meetings, and field visits.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions when field support is required.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced consulting environment.

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits. https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation:
Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $90,000-$125,000 yearly
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

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