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Ecologist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Battelle

NEON Engagement Coordinator - CO

Boulder, CO · On-site

Company Overview Battelle manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) program, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to ...

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All JobsEcologist JobsEcologist Jobs in Colorado

Ecologist information

See Colorado salary details

$36.3K

$62.6K

$109.4K

How much do ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecologist in Colorado is $62,615.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges ecologists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can these be managed?

Ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to study sites during fieldwork. Additionally, working with sensitive habitats or protected species may require special permits and adherence to strict protocols. Effective planning, flexibility, and collaboration with local authorities or stakeholders can help overcome these obstacles. Building strong teamwork skills and maintaining clear communication within the research team are also essential for a successful fieldwork experience.

What does an ecologist do?

An ecologist studies the relationships between living organisms and their environment. They analyze how plants, animals, and other organisms interact with each other and with their surroundings, including the impact of human activity. Ecologists often conduct field research, collect and analyze data, and develop strategies to conserve ecosystems and biodiversity. Their work is important for understanding environmental changes and finding ways to protect natural resources.

Are ecologists well paid?

Ecologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn a median annual wage that is close to or slightly above the national average for environmental scientists. Advanced degrees and specialized skills, such as GIS or data analysis, can lead to higher compensation, especially in consulting or research roles.

What jobs can ecologists do?

Ecologists can work in research, environmental consulting, conservation, and resource management. They analyze ecosystems, conduct field studies, and develop strategies to protect natural environments. Jobs may require skills in data collection, GIS tools, and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Ecologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEcologistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, BiologyBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research labs, conservation sitesLaboratories, field sites, policy agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, conservation organizations, government agenciesEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, research institutions

Ecologists focus on studying ecosystems, wildlife, and natural habitats, often conducting field research. Environmental Scientists have a broader scope, including analyzing environmental data, developing policies, and working on environmental impact assessments. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, ecologists tend to specialize in ecological research, whereas environmental scientists may work across various environmental disciplines.

What Do Ecologists Do?

Ecologists are scientists who study ecosystems, from the world of microscopic organisms to the vast life in the ocean. They study the connections and relationships between various living things and their environment, both naturally occurring spheres and areas that have components built by humans. Ecologists may work for universities, in conservation, eco-management, agriculture, and research, and conduct research, study ways to solve environmental issues, and advise lawmakers on legislation that may affect the natural habitat.

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, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, ecological modeling tools, and field data collection methods is typically required. Strong observational skills, critical thinking, and effective communication help ecologists collaborate with stakeholders and present research findings persuasively. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately studying ecosystems, informing conservation efforts, and guiding environmental policy decisions.

What do ecologists actually do?

Ecologists study the relationships between organisms and their environments, often conducting fieldwork to collect data on plants, animals, and ecosystems. They analyze environmental conditions, use tools like GIS and statistical software, and may work in research, conservation, or environmental management to help protect natural resources.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Ecologists with advanced degrees and specialized expertise in areas like conservation, environmental consulting, or research can earn over $100,000 annually, especially in senior or managerial roles. High-paying positions often require strong analytical skills, fieldwork experience, and proficiency with data analysis tools or GIS software.
More about Ecologist jobs
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What job categories do people searching Ecologist jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Ecologist jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Ecologist jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Ecologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in CO? For Ecologist jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecologist job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,615 per year, or $30.1 per hour.
Mid-Level Biologist / Ecologist - Front Range, CO

Mid-Level Biologist / Ecologist - Front Range, CO

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

406th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a Mid-Level Biologist/Ecologist to lead biological and wetland tasks in support of a variety of projects within our Energy Practice. Our work includes routing, siting, and permitting for wind and solar energy facilities, electric transmission lines and substations, natural gas pipelines, and related infrastructure.
The successful candidate will have a strong wildlife biology background, with experience leading fieldwork, managing data, and supporting federal, state, and local permitting efforts. Experience with wetland surveys is required. This role offers a mix of field leadership, technical writing, and project support, with opportunities to grow into expanded responsibilities.
This position is based in the Front Range of Colorado and will support projects throughout Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and occasionally the Southwest and other regions.
Location: Front Range, CO (Affiliated with Lakewood, CO Office)
Essential Job Functions:
  • Lead wildlife field surveys (e.g., habitat assessments, raptor nest surveys, burrowing owl surveys) across diverse ecological regions
  • Lead biological resource tasks from proposal through fieldwork, reporting, and client communication
  • Manage field crews, including logistics, scheduling, and task delegation
  • Conduct additional fieldwork as needed, including wetland delineations and vegetation monitoring
  • Prepare and review technical reports, proposals, and biological assessments
  • Interpret and communicate biological impacts and survey results to clients and project teams
  • Support cost estimating and proposal development for biological tasks
  • Assist with local, state, and federal permitting, including coordination with regulatory agencies
  • Manage and prioritize multiple concurrent projects in various stages
  • Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
  • Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
  • Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
  • Additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field
  • 5+ years of relevant experience, including biological fieldwork
  • Experience leading or supporting biological surveys and field teams
  • Proficiency in technical report writing and impact analysis
  • Experience with:
    • Environmental impact analysis for energy projects
    • Biological mitigation, monitoring, and compliance
    • Federal, state, and local permitting processes
  • Experience interacting with regulatory agencies
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and within a team
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in a related field
  • Experience with wetland delineations and aquatic resource assessments
  • Experience in Great Plains, Rockies, or Central U.S. ecosystems

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to perform strenuous fieldwork, including:
    • Long-distance hiking, including off-trail travel
    • Working in steep terrain and remote locations
    • Exposure to extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, wind)
  • Ability to work extended field schedules, including multi-week assignments
  • Ability to carry field equipment and take detailed field notes

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
  • Field-based work across Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and surrounding regions
  • Exposure to rugged terrain, remote environments, and varying weather conditions
  • Travel required, sometimes on short notice
  • Work may be conducted independently or in small field teams

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits. https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation:
Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $70,000-$90,000 annually
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

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