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Ecological Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

GEI Consultants

Project Manager/Ecologist

Allendale, MI · On-site

Our natural resource/ecological team currently offers a variety of services including habitat restoration, wetland delineations, permitting, threatened and endangered species surveys and coordination ...

GEI Consultants

Project Manager/Ecologist

Allendale, MI · On-site

Our natural resource/ecological team currently offers a variety of services including habitat restoration, wetland delineations, permitting, threatened and endangered species surveys and coordination ...

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All JobsEcological JobsEcological Jobs in Michigan

Ecological information

See Michigan salary details

$30.1K

$51.9K

$90.6K

How much do ecological jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecological in Michigan is $51,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ecological vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEcologicalEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research stations, labsFieldwork, labs, policy settings, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, conservation agencies, NGOsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, industry
Common Search & ComparisonEcological vs Environmental Scientist

Ecological professionals focus specifically on ecosystems, species interactions, and habitat conservation, often conducting field research. Environmental Scientists have a broader scope, addressing overall environmental issues, pollution, and sustainability across various settings. While both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, Ecological roles are more specialized in natural habitats, whereas Environmental Scientists may work in policy, consulting, or broader environmental management.

Are ecologists well paid?

Ecologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but generally they earn a median annual wage that is close to or slightly above the national average for scientific roles. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced ecologists with advanced degrees and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in government agencies or private consulting firms.

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

To thrive as an Ecologist, you need a solid background in biology, environmental science, and statistical analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, field sampling equipment, and ecological modeling tools is typically required, along with certifications such as HAZWOPER or wetland delineation when applicable. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help ecologists effectively collaborate and convey complex findings to diverse audiences. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing ecosystems, informing conservation decisions, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What are some careers as an environmentalist?

Careers as an environmentalist include roles such as environmental scientist, conservation officer, environmental consultant, and sustainability manager. These positions often require knowledge of ecological principles, environmental laws, and data analysis tools, and may involve fieldwork, research, or policy development.

What do Ecologists do?

Ecologists study the relationships between living organisms and their environments. They research how plants, animals, and other organisms interact with each other and with natural or human-influenced surroundings. Their work often involves field studies, data collection, and analysis to understand ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental impacts. Ecologists also help develop conservation strategies and inform policies to protect natural resources and address environmental challenges such as climate change.

What jobs can you do with ecology?

Ecology graduates and professionals can work as environmental consultants, conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, ecological researchers, or habitat restoration specialists. These roles often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of ecological principles, and may involve working for government agencies, research institutions, or environmental organizations.

What careers are in ecology?

Careers in ecology include roles such as ecological researcher, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, wildlife biologist, and ecological technician. These positions often require knowledge of ecosystems, fieldwork skills, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in environmental science or biology.

What are some common challenges faced by ecological consultants during fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Ecological consultants often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote sites during fieldwork. Additionally, project timelines can be affected by seasonal constraints linked to species activity. To address these challenges, ecological consultants plan surveys carefully, maintain flexibility in scheduling, and use appropriate field equipment. Collaborating closely with clients and local authorities also helps navigate access and regulatory issues effectively, ensuring data quality and project success.
What are popular job titles related to Ecological jobs in Michigan? For Ecological jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ecological jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Ecological jobs in Michigan are:
Ecological jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecological job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,901 per year, or $25 per hour.

Sr. Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager

Groundwater and Environmental Svcs.

New Hudson, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager & Office Lead to guide and manage our local environmental operations and our regional environmental/ ecological needs.


The primary focus of this position’s duties and responsibilities is on the technical aspects of diverse environmental and ecological projects. This individual provides principal project support activities, including work plan and proposal preparation, project resource management and scheduling, deadline tracking, budget evaluation and analysis, and technical editing and report finalization. This position also requires a local to regional field presence, while also including national presence on a large Ecological Team. The position requires daily management of project/site assigned staff. Under limited supervision, the Principal Environmental/ Ecological Project Manager & Office Lead plans, executes, supervises, and documents field aspects of highly complex ecological projects (permitting, ecological restoration, delineations, determinations, NEPA, etc.), support environmental remediation, and support construction observation, to include all aspects of post remediation ecological restoration, mitigation banking, nutrient banking, permitting, permitting support, reporting, etc. The individual in this position must be a multi-tasked, detail-oriented team player, and possess excellent skills in verbal and written communications, time management, organizational management, problem solving, decision making, and leadership.


Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to strategic planning and growth of ecological services
  • Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the local office
  • Oversee regional ecological assessments, surveys, and environmental impact studies
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to staff
  • Ensure high-quality project delivery, on time and within budget
  • Develop and maintain client relationships and support business development
  • Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, policies, and best practices
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on infrastructure and land-use projects

Qualifications & Experience

  • Degree in Ecology, Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Geology or related discipline
  • 15+ years of professional ecological (required) Extensive knowledge in 401/404 permitting, WOTUS Delineations, CWA, NEPA, ESA/T&E species, FERC, etc.) or other similarly aligned ecological disciplines- Stream Restoration, wetland restoration or other restoration discipline a plus
  • Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing projects
  • Strong knowledge of ecological laws, legislation and regulatory frameworks
  • Experience with field surveys, habitat assessments, and reporting
  • Interacts with other project support services (technical services, professional, engineering, administrative) and subcontractors to ensure all resources are in place for proper fieldwork execution
  • Mastery knowledge of applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to all field activities and relevant regulatory programs and the willingness to learn and master other state regulatory programs as necessary
  • Acts as the primary author for site work plans, proposals, and reports for highly complex scopes of work, including permits, NEPA/FERC documents, delineation reports, ecological restoration plans, compensatory migration plans and strategies, etc.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Adheres to client contract specifications in all field-related activities and informs project group of those specifications
  • Manages procurement of subcontractors and vendors for completion of project tasks, including subcontractor/vendor bid package development
  • Must complete annual refresher OSHA HAZWOPER training and be able to wear required PPE
  • Must maintain a valid drivers’ license and acceptable driving record

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong leadership and organizational skills
  • Strategic thinking with a solutions-focused approach
  • High attention to detail and scientific rigor
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
  • Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship

Our comprehensive benefits include: Hybrid workforce, medical, dental, vision, prescription card, 401k, FSA, LTD, STD, New Parent Leave, 529 CollegeBound Fund, Tuition Assistance, Bonus Plan, and more.

Groundwater & Environmental Services, Inc. (GES) believes that diversity and inclusion among our staff is critical to our success, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. At GES, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

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