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Ecological Research Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

US Department of Commerce

Research Ecologist

Newport, OR · On-site

$74K/yr

Biology, or a related field of science underlying ecological research that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied biological sciences. These hours must have included at least 9 ...

US Department of Commerce

Research Ecologist

Newport, OR · On-site

$74K/yr

Biology, or a related field of science underlying ecological research that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied biological sciences. These hours must have included at least 9 ...

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Ecological Research information

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$11

$29

$58

How much do ecological research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for ecological research in Oregon is $29.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $36.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ecological research?

Ecological research is the scientific study of how organisms interact with each other and their environment. It explores relationships among living things (such as plants, animals, and microbes) and their surroundings, including both biotic and abiotic factors. Ecological research helps us understand ecosystem functions, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on natural systems. Findings from this research are crucial for conservation, resource management, and addressing environmental challenges like climate change.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ecological research?

To thrive in Ecological Research, you need a solid background in biology, environmental science, or ecology, often supported by a relevant degree and research experience. Familiarity with statistical software (like R or Python), GIS tools, and field sampling equipment is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help researchers interpret data and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies are vital for producing reliable research outcomes and informing conservation or management decisions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in ecological research, and how can they be addressed?

Ecological researchers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable field conditions, data collection in remote or difficult-to-access locations, and variability in environmental factors that can affect study results. To address these, researchers typically plan meticulously, build flexibility into their schedules, and use robust data collection protocols to ensure data quality. Collaboration with local experts, effective use of technology (such as remote sensing and data loggers), and thorough training in field safety also help mitigate risks and improve research outcomes.

What is the difference between Ecological Research vs Ecological Consulting?

AspectEcological ResearchEcological Consulting
CredentialsDegree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldDegree in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesConsulting firms, private companies, government agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily academic and research-focusedClient-focused, project-based work
Job FocusStudying ecosystems, data collection, analysisApplying ecological knowledge to solve real-world environmental issues

While both Ecological Research and Ecological Consulting involve ecological expertise, research focuses on studying ecosystems and generating scientific knowledge, whereas consulting applies that knowledge to address practical environmental challenges for clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecological Research jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Ecological Research jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Ecological Research jobs in Oregon?

For Ecological Research jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ecological Research jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Ecological Research jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Ecological Research jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Ecological Research job openings:

Ecological Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecological Research job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 66% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,899 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Research Ecologist

Portland, OR • On-site

Work with us | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
See more jobs at Work with us | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrationexternal

$74K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), Protected Species Division.
This position is also announced under vacancy number NMFS-26-13041148-ST, which is open to Status Candidates. You must apply to both announcements if you want to be considered for both.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: This position has a positive Education Requirement in addition to at least one year of Specialized Experience OR substitution of education for experience OR combination (if applicable) in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet the following requirements:
To qualify for the 0408 series:
EDUCATION:
A. Degree: Biology, or a related field of science underlying ecological research that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied biological sciences. These hours must have included at least 9 semester hours in ecology, and 12 semester hours in physical and mathematical sciences.
-AND-
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
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; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZP-3 or GS-11 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-2 or GS-09 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Assisting in conducting research with living marine resources and their habitats (e.g., stock assessments, population dynamics, or ecosystem-based management); and
  • Contributing to scientific written reports and presentations.
OR
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience may be used to meet the total experience requirements. Note: Only graduate-level education in excess of the amount required for the next lower level may be combined with experience.
To qualify at the ZP-4 or GS-13 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-3 or GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:
  • Designing ecological or populations assessments and supporting analyses for living marine resources;
  • Conducting statistical analyses, designing, coding, documenting, running, and summarizing output from a variety of models; and
  • Preparing research results for publications and presentations.
Education:College Transcript:If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.Employment Type: OTHER

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