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Conservation Biologist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Think Tank, Inc.

Gear Liasion

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

... conservation biology, or a closely related field.A relevant degree may be substituted by two (2) additional years of relevant work experience.Must meet or exceed ProTech Labor Category Level 2 - ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Baltimore, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Laukoa

On-Call Field Biologist

Washington, DC · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

LAUKOA is seeking four On-call Field Biologists to join our conservation and planning team ... Provide biological desktop reviews, create permitting packages, assist with GIS mapping, and ensure ...

ICF

On-Call Senior Bat Biologist

Reston, VA

S. You will collaborate with an accomplished team of conservation planners, ecologists, and regulatory specialists. You will lead biological teams in the field in support of the preparation of ...

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Conservation Biologist information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$38.3K

$92.4K

$142.7K

How much do conservation biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation biologist in Silver Spring, MD is $92,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a conservation biologist do?

A Conservation Biologist studies ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources to protect biodiversity and address environmental threats. They conduct research, develop conservation plans, and work with organizations or governments to implement policies that preserve species and habitats. Their work often involves fieldwork, data analysis, and community outreach to promote sustainable practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservation biologist?

To thrive as a Conservation Biologist, you need a solid grounding in ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science, often backed by at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Experience with GIS mapping tools, statistical software (such as R or SPSS), and relevant fieldwork certifications is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you convey complex information to diverse audiences and stakeholders. These skills are crucial for conducting research, developing conservation strategies, and collaborating with teams to protect natural habitats and species.

How much does a conservation biologist make a year?

The average annual salary for a conservation biologist in the United States is around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in research or management roles.

Is it hard to get a job in conservation biology?

Conservation biologist positions can be competitive due to high interest and limited funding, often requiring advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. and experience in fieldwork, research, or environmental policy. Building skills in data analysis, GIS, and gaining practical experience through internships can improve job prospects in this field.

What jobs can I get with a conservation biologist degree?

A conservation biologist can work in roles such as wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, park ranger, or research scientist. These positions often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental policy, and may require knowledge of GIS tools and ecological research methods.

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Biologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Conservation Biologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation Biologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Biologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Conservation Biologist jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Conservation Biologist job openings:

Conservation Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Biologist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,423 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Animal Keeper Helper (HG 5001-05)

Washington, DC • On-site

National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
See more jobs at National Zoo and Conservation Biology Instituteexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
OPEN DATE: August 28, 2025                                   
CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2025 (This job will close once 100 applications are received which may be sooner than the closing date.)                           
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE:  Permanent/Indefinite    
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Front Royal, VA
Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
 
Open to all qualified applicants 
 
 What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program and may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 
 
Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated as low risk.
  • Complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.


OVERVIEW
The Smithsonian Institution is a unique complex of 21 museums and galleries, the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and nine research centers. The Smithsonian is a national and world treasure and is dedicated to its founding mission, “the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute play a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction and train future generations of conservationists. The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
 
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is a leader in the conservation, care, exhibition, and research of wildlife and habitats.  NZCBI’s employees in the nation’s capital, Virginia, and worldwide and as part of the Smithsonian make it prominent in national and international affairs involving conservation, zoos, wildlife, public outreach, and biological research.
   
This position is located at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) Research Headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia.   It has an onsite employee parking is currently available at no cost. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Animal Keeper position is located at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, Virginia. The incumbent is responsible for performing a variety of duties that ensure the proper care, feeding, exhibition, and propagation of a collection of animals.
  
  In this position, you will:
  • Assist higher graded Animal Keepers in performing a variety of tasks associated with the proper care, feeding, exhibition, and propagation of a collection of wild and exotic animals. 
  • Clean animal enclosures by hosing, sweeping, scrubbing, raking, and removing manure, unconsumed food, and other refuse.
  • Receive training and developmental assignments in the receipt, storage, inspection, inventory, preparation and issuance of food and dietary supplements, forage, and bedding materials. Unloads and stores food supplies. As instructed and under close supervision prepares animal diets according to standard procedures.
  • Keep service areas and adjacent public areas clean. 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
  • Requires the ability to catch and handle docile animals by hand or by using nets without injuring the animals or endangering oneself.
  • Requires familiarity with a range of animal species in order to identify them by natural markings.
  • Requires skill and ability to carry out routine animal keeper duties.
  • Requires ability to understand instructions given by higher-level animal keeper personnel.
Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.
 
Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.
  
The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."
 
 Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.  
 
 What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.
 
Relocation expenses are not paid.
 
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact BiagasL@si.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian’s Accommodation Procedures.
 
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. See Smithsonian EEO program information: www.si.edu/oeema.