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Ecologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

pondco

Environmental Scientist Lead

Peachtree Corners, GA

$70K - $93K/yr

The ideal candidate possesses a Bachelor's degree in ecology, natural resources, environmental engineering, environmental planning, or a related discipline (MS preferred) and has 6-10 years of ...

NV5

River Restoration Scientist

Alpharetta, GA · Hybrid

The Ecological Restoration Team at NV5 is seeking a full-time, remote River Restoration Scientist with 3+ years of experience and a strong proficiency in science focused on rivers, streams, and ...

NV5

River Restoration Scientist

Alpharetta, GA · Hybrid

Responsibilities The Ecological Restoration Team at NV5 is seeking a full-time, remote River Restoration Scientist with 3+ years of experience and a strong proficiency in science focused on rivers ...

NV5

River Restoration Scientist

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

Responsibilities The Ecological Restoration Team at NV5 is seeking a full-time, remote River Restoration Scientist with 3+ years of experience and a strong proficiency in science focused on rivers ...

Barge Design Solutions

Environmental Scientist IV

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

In this role, you will be responsible for conducting ecological assessments, wetland delineations, wildlife habitat evaluations, and permitting in support of a variety of projects across multiple ...

Southern Company

Environmental Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Responsibilities include wetlands and waters delineation, managing ecological surveys, GIS database preparation and data analysis, strategic coordination with internal customers and regulatory ...

Southern Company

Environmental Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Responsibilities include wetlands and waters delineation, managing ecological surveys, GIS database preparation and data analysis, strategic coordination with internal customers and regulatory ...

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All JobsEcologist JobsEcologist Jobs in Decatur, GA

Ecologist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$33.7K

$58.1K

$101.5K

How much do ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecologist in Decatur, GA is $58,138.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $72,200.00 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA? For Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Ecologist jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Ecologist job openings:
Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecologist job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,138 per year, or $28 per hour.

Environmental Scientist Lead

pondco

Peachtree Corners, GA

$70K - $93K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the Position
We are searching for an experienced Scientist Lead to join our growing Environmental team. The ideal candidate possesses a Bachelor’s degree in ecology, natural resources, environmental engineering, environmental planning, or a related discipline (MS preferred) and has 6-10 years of related experience. In this position, the successful candidate will serve as a Task Manager and field lead for environmental field studies, including delineation, sampling, inspection, data analysis, permit preparation, GIS mapping, and technical report writing. The successful candidate will also be responsible for managing junior staff and ensuring QA/QC of their work. Additionally, the role involves supporting proposal development and interfacing with clients as necessary. Projects will span across multiple markets and geographies, offering opportunities to broaden knowledge and deepen skill sets related to environmental science. We are seeking someone who can be an independent self-starter. Experience with Georgia Department of Transportation projects is a plus.

Experience and Qualifications

• Mid-senior level experience as an environmental consultant or environmental regulatory specialist.

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Art (B.A.) in a relevant environmental discipline (Environmental

Science, Wildlife or Fisheries Science, Ecology, Biology, Environmental Management, Environmental

Planning, etc.). Master of Science (M.S.) is preferred.

• Advanced knowledge of field such as wetland science, flora/fauna, ecosystems of the Southeastern US,

environmental impact analysis, etc. with demonstrated experience leading field tasks. Knowledge in

additional ecoregions is preferred.

• Proficient with GIS and GPS mapping (ArcGIS Pro, Field Maps, and similar software).

• Physically able to travel and conduct field work on various project sites with challenging field conditions

such as steep terrain, thick vegetation, and inclement weather.

• Excellent technical writing and communication skills with ability to deliver complete and clean documents.

• Experience leading environmental tasks for Departments of Transportation (DOT), Energy, Renewables,

Municipal, or Federal projects.

• Experience reading and interpreting construction plans (civil, roadway, pipeline, etc.).

• Experience delivering multiple environmental services projects simultaneously, including projects spanning

various markets, clients, and states.

• Ideal candidates would have professional credentials such as American Institute of Certified Planners,

Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Certified Ecologist (CE), Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment

Control (CPESC), Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP), Certified Professional Soil Scientist

(CPSS), or similar.

• Experience supervising one or more junior to mid-level staff.

• Willingness to travel as projects require, including occasional overnight travel.

• Ability to work well within a team environment, bringing a positive attitude, multi-tasking abilities, and self-motivated

mentality to produce high quality work.

Apply