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Chicago Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Field Ecologist to join our Ecological Restoration team in our West Chicago office. As a Field Ecologist, you will play a crucial role in studying and ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist II-III

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Field Ecologist to join our Ecological Restoration team in our West Chicago office. As a Field Ecologist, you will play a crucial role in studying and ...

V3 Companies

Field Ecologist

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

V3 Companies, a multidisciplinary AEC firm, is seeking a Field Ecologist in our West Chicago, IL office, where you will contribute to career-defining projects that reimagine our built and natural ...

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 role. This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species ...

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 role. This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species ...

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All JobsChicago Ecology Jobs

Chicago Ecology information

See salary details

$33K

$78.9K

$134K

How much do chicago ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for chicago ecology in the United States is $78,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ecologist in Chicago?

To thrive as an ecologist in Chicago, you need a solid background in environmental science, ecology, or biology, often with at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, statistical analysis programs, and field data collection tools is commonly required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication are vital soft skills for success. These competencies enable ecologists to accurately assess local ecosystems, communicate findings, and develop strategies for conservation and restoration in urban environments.

What is Chicago ecology?

Chicago ecology refers to the study and management of ecosystems, plants, animals, and natural resources within the Chicago metropolitan area. It involves understanding the interactions between urban development and natural habitats, as well as efforts to conserve native species and promote biodiversity. Chicago ecologists work on projects such as restoring prairies, wetlands, and forest preserves, monitoring wildlife, and implementing sustainable urban planning. Their work is essential for maintaining ecological balance and improving quality of life in the city.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Chicago ecology roles?

Professionals in Chicago ecology roles often face challenges such as balancing urban development with environmental conservation, managing invasive species, and restoring native habitats within city limits. Collaboration with government agencies, local communities, and private stakeholders is essential to achieve ecological goals in such a densely populated area. Additionally, adapting to changing climate patterns and securing funding for long-term projects are ongoing aspects of the role. These challenges offer valuable learning opportunities and can lead to impactful, visible results in the city’s green spaces.

What is the difference between Chicago Ecology vs Chicago Environmental Technician?

AspectChicago EcologyChicago Environmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; certifications like GIS or environmental monitoringAssociate's or Bachelor's in Environmental Science or related; certifications like OSHA, EPA, or field-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research sites, and laboratoriesFieldwork at sites, environmental testing labs, and client locations
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutionsEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, industrial sites

Chicago Ecology professionals focus on ecological research, habitat restoration, and conservation projects, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, Chicago Environmental Technicians perform testing, monitoring, and data collection to support environmental compliance and remediation efforts. Both roles are vital in environmental industries but differ mainly in education level, scope of work, and specific job functions.

What cities are hiring for Chicago Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Chicago Ecology job openings:
What states have the most Chicago Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Chicago Ecology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chicago Ecology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chicago Ecology jobs are:
Chicago Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chicago Ecology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,863 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Conservation Ecologist - Keller Science Action Center

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position: Conservation Ecologist, Chicago Region
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Keller Science Action Center
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center translates museum science and expertise into action for conservation and quality of life. We are seeking a Conservation Ecologist to support work in the Chicago Wilderness region, where we collaborate with a wide network of partners to advance conservation on the ground in Chicago, Kankakee County, and Northwest Indiana, with the potential to extend into other areas.
The successful candidate brings strong knowledge of regional conservation context and natural and human communities, a passion for collaborative interdisciplinary research and fieldwork, and taxonomic expertise in at least one focal group, and a dedication to quick and tangible results. This experienced conservation ecologist will contribute to the strategy, methods and future direction of the Chicago Program, and will work with team members to develop and implement effective, collaborative approaches oriented to decision-making for conservation and people's well-being.
This position is hired on a 3-year term with potential for renewal, is based at the Field Museum in Chicago and reports to the Sr. Director of the Keller Science Action Center. The work involves regular local field work, and 10-20% of the year devoted to regional travel.
Review of candidates will begin June 8 and continue until the position is filled.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide ecological and taxonomic expertise to Action Center conservation efforts.
  • Lead initiatives within the Chicago program with an interdisciplinary team that includes ecologists, social scientists, and educators.
  • Collaborate as a lead scientist in the Chicago region including planning, fieldwork, and technical reporting to establish and sustain conservation that benefits local communities.
  • Manage key relationships with partners and help establish new partnerships that advance our conservation and well-being goals.
  • Work closely with Action Center staff and partners to synthesize insights and outcomes across particular experiences and generate understanding to leverage results at larger landscape scales.
  • Support the monitoring, evaluation, and iterative improvement of the program.
  • Contribute to grant proposals, technical reports, and other materials for dissemination, including peer-reviewed publications, that support the creation or management of conservation landscapes.
  • Support the creation of conservation tools and training opportunities for conservation professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders.
  • Integrate ecological expertise into the development of long-term conservation strategies in collaboration with other Action Center scientists and partners, identifying and implementing opportunities to expand conservation programming and funding.

Experience and Qualifications (Required):
  • Advanced degree in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife science, or related conservation science field
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in applied conservation science, including fieldwork and project implementation
  • Demonstrated experience working in the Chicago region or a similar large metropolitan ecosystem where conservation occurs across an urban-natural mosaic and at corridor/landscape scales.
  • Experience managing projects and competent working both independently and in a team
  • Strong writing, editing and verbal communication skills: able to structure ideas clearly and to communicate them in English to a wide range of audiences
  • Proficiency with digital work platforms such as MS Office and Google Workspace
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment

Preferred
  • Experience receiving input from local communities to shape their research.
  • Fluency in Spanish
  • Experience working with diverse partners and stakeholders

Applications must include the following:
• Resume
• Cover Letter
• A minimum of three professional references
Equity Commitment
The Keller Science Action Center is committed to a workforce that is diverse and inclusive and the Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Field Museum strives to create a working environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation and that promotes human dignity among all staff. Realizing that good relations between co-workers are an integral part of job satisfaction, the Field Museum strives to create a climate of mutual respect among all employees.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision by Keller Science Action Sr. Director
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Eligible
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers' United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $62,000-$70,000
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.

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