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Contract Wildlife Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chloeta

Wildlife Project Manager

Asheville, NC · On-site

This role is anticipated to last 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending contract ... Advanced knowledge of wildlife biology, habitat management, and ecosystem processes * Strong ...

Chloeta

Wildlife Technician

Asheville, NC · On-site

This role is anticipated to last 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending contract ... Knowledge of wildlife biology, habitat management, and field survey techniques * Ability to collect ...

Chloeta

Wildlife Project Lead

Asheville, NC · On-site

This role is anticipated to last 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending contract ... Prepare and review NEPA and ESA documentation, including Environmental Assessments and Biological ...

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Contract Wildlife Biologist information

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$22.5K

$61.2K

$105.5K

How much do contract wildlife biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract wildlife biologist in the United States is $61,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a contract wildlife biologist may face in the field?

Contract Wildlife Biologists often work outdoors in remote or challenging environments, which can involve variable weather, rugged terrain, and unpredictable wildlife activity. Meeting project deadlines while adhering to strict data collection and environmental regulations can sometimes be demanding. Additionally, the contract nature of the job means work schedules and locations may change frequently, requiring adaptability and good organizational skills. Despite these challenges, the role is rewarding for those passionate about wildlife conservation and who enjoy dynamic, hands-on fieldwork.

Is there a demand for contract wildlife biologists?

Demand for contract wildlife biologists remains steady due to ongoing conservation efforts, environmental assessments, and habitat management projects. These roles often require specialized skills in field research, data analysis, and regulatory compliance, and they are typically project-based with variable schedules. Job opportunities can fluctuate with funding availability and environmental priorities.

What is a contract wildlife biologist?

A Contract Wildlife Biologist is a professional hired on a temporary or project basis to study, manage, and protect wildlife and natural habitats. They may work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or nonprofit organizations, often conducting field surveys, habitat assessments, and regulatory compliance work. Their responsibilities vary by project but typically include data collection, report writing, and collaborating with stakeholders to support conservation efforts. This role offers flexibility and diverse work environments but may require frequent travel and outdoor work in varying conditions.

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

To thrive as a Contract Wildlife Biologist, you need in-depth knowledge of wildlife biology, ecology, and field research methods, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, remote sensing tools, and wildlife handling certifications are often essential for collecting and analyzing ecological data. Strong observation, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help build collaborative relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. These abilities are vital for conducting accurate fieldwork, meeting project objectives, and contributing to effective wildlife management solutions.

Where do contract wildlife biologists get paid the most?

Contract wildlife biologists tend to earn higher wages in regions with greater environmental funding, higher living costs, or where conservation projects are more prevalent, such as in certain states or areas with active government or private sector wildlife programs. Salaries can also vary based on experience, specialized skills, and certifications like GIS or species identification. Generally, urban or resource-rich areas offer higher pay for contract wildlife biologists compared to rural locations.
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Contract Wildlife Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Wildlife Biologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% Internship, 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,173 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Supervisory Wildlife Biologist (State Director)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Okemos, MI • On-site

$117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

If selected, you will be responsible for planning, developing, organizing, and administering complex operational and technical assistance programs designed to efficiently, effectively, and safely reduce wildlife damage that adversely impacts agricultural interests, human health and safety, property, and natural resources. This position is multi-jurisdictional and primarily spans several districts within a State/Territory or a combination of states, which includes supervising a large staff.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
TIME-IN-GRADE: Current federal employees applying for a promotion opportunity must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirement of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
  1. Degree: biological science that included:
    • At least 9 semester hours in such wildlife subjects as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, wildlife management, or research courses in the field of wildlife biology; and
    • At least 12 semester hours in zoology in such subjects as general zoology, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, cellular biology, parasitology, entomology, or research courses in such subjects (Excess courses in wildlife biology may be used to meet the zoology requirements where appropriate.); and
    • At least 9 semester hours in botany or the related plant sciences.
OR
Combination of education and experience: equivalent to a major in biological science (i.e., at least 30 semester hours), with at least 9 semester hours in wildlife subjects, 12 semester hours in zoology, and 9 semester hours in botany or related plant science, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Evaluating and developing staff members, addressing performance problems, managing workforce staffing needs for overtime and temporary duty (TDY) assignments.
  • Assisting with program policy development, including processes and procedures that improve operations, resulting in greater efficiency and effective application of regulations for wildlife damage management operations.
  • Managing wildlife damage management program administration, involving large-scale resources, a high degree of logistical planning, and multiple funding sources, monitoring contracts.
  • Gaining cooperation from, exchanging information, applying regulations, and resolving problematic issues with industry representatives relative to wildlife damage management requirements.

Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
  • This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified.
  • This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER

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