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Ecologist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$34.8K

$60.1K

$105K

How much do ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecologist in Wisconsin is $60,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,800.00 and $74,700.00 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.

Do ecologists make a lot of money?

Ecologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn a median annual wage around $70,000. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as GIS or environmental modeling, can offer higher compensation. Entry-level positions tend to pay less, while senior or research-focused ecologists may earn more.

Are ecologists in demand?

Ecologists are in moderate demand, especially in government agencies, environmental consulting, and research institutions. Employment opportunities often require a strong background in fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental regulations, with job growth expected to be steady as environmental concerns increase globally.

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 does an ecologist 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 jobs do ecologists get?

Ecologists work in various roles such as environmental consultants, conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, and research scientists. They often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, research institutions, or private companies, utilizing skills in data collection, fieldwork, and environmental analysis.
More about Ecologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin? For Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Ecologist jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Ecologist jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Ecologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in WI? For Ecologist jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecologist job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,104 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Sr. Consultant/Senior Habitat Ecologist/Restoration Planner

GEI Consultants

Green Bay, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 439 rated engineering

Job description

Description
Your role at GEI.
Join us in our mission to restore and protect our natural habitats for future generations.
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Habitat Restoration Planner to join our dynamic and growing ecological team in Wisconsin, preferably out of our Green Bay, Appleton, Milwaukee or Madison offices. This role involves leading and coordinating comprehensive restoration projects aimed at preserving and enhancing rivers, lakes, wetlands, coastal habitats, prairies, and other uplands of the Great Lakes region. The ideal candidate will have extensive expertise in restoration planning, project management, and stakeholder engagement. This position requires a deep understanding of ecological principles, project management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Our projects require being able to balance wildlife goals, land uses, budget constraints, client needs and expectations, and regulations when developing a project or restoration plan.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Grow our ecology practice by developing new and existing clients and markets while cross-selling GEI's core business areas including geotechnical, environmental assessment and remediation, water resources, waterfront, environmental engineering, and civil engineering consulting. Develop and implement strategies and action plans that align with both organizational goals and regional conservation priorities.
  • Prepare detailed project proposals, budgets, and timelines.
  • Manage project budgets, timelines, staff and other resources.
  • Oversee and manage habitat restoration projects with varying levels of complexity and size from inception to completion that meet environmental and regulatory standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and support in the design, implementation, and monitoring of habitat restoration projects, including site assessments and ecological evaluations.
  • Work with technical staff and project managers to develop natural heritage inventories and impact assessments
  • Develop survey plans for use by field crews, adhering to best practices and safety protocols, for site assessments and ecological surveys, as needed, to inform project design.
  • Collaborate with governmental agencies, non-profits, local communities, and other stakeholders to foster partnerships and secure project support.
  • Prepare reports, publications, and presentations to communicate project findings and contribute to the scientific community.
  • Provide QAQC for summary memos, technical reports, figures, and recommendations to clients. Help develop business by leveraging relationships and knowledge of clients, programs, and regulations.
  • Stay up to date with the latest research and developments in habitat restoration and ecological science.
  • Work with contractors and subcontractors to complete work to project specifications and agency standards.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in habitat restoration, environmental planning, or a related field.
  • Proven track record of successfully managing complex environmental projects, including budget and timeline management.
  • Strong knowledge of ecological principles and restoration techniques pertinent to the Great Lakes region.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities, with experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and fostering a collaborative working environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions and develop creative and practical solutions to restoration challenges.
  • Willingness to travel and work in various field conditions as required by project demands.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional certifications related to environmental planning or habitat restoration (e.g., Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner, arborist, etc.).
  • Familiarity with the Great Lakes region's ecological, cultural, and regulatory landscape.
  • Experience with wetland and stream mitigation banking, such as site selection, design, permitting, construction oversight, and monitoring.
  • Experience with projects that incorporate aquatic, wetland, and terrestrial habitat elements.
  • Proficiency in GIS, remote sensing, and other relevant software tools for environmental analysis and mapping.
  • 10-15 years of direct environmental consulting experience in the Great Lakes region preferrable, with considerable experience in Wisconsin.

We are GEI.
Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply - need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients' most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here .
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs - we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded - which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI's career site here .
Fully Benefited Positions (RFT/RPT)
GEI's Total Rewards Package Includes
  • Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
  • Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
  • Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
  • GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
  • Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
  • Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here )
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • And More...

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands:
Sedentary
X
Light
Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
X
Standing
X
Walking
X
Climbing
X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
X
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
X
Carrying objects
X
Push/pull
X
Twisting
X
Bending
X
Reaching forward
X
Reaching overhead
X
Squat/kneel/crawl
X
Wrist position deviation
X
Pinching/fine motor skills
X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
X
Taste or smell (taste=never)
X
Talk or hear
X
Accurate 20/40
Very Accurate 20/20
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X
Far Vision
X
Yes
No
Not Applicable
Color Discrimination
X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception
X
Hearing
X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens
X
Chemical
X
Airborne communicable diseases
X
Extreme temperatures
X
Radiation
X
Uneven surfaces or elevations
X
Extreme noise levels
X
Dust/particulate matter
X
Other (exposure risks):
Usual workday hours :
8
X
10
12
Other work hours
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.

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