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Ecologist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Lead Forest Ecologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$141/hr

Serve as forester or forest ecologist on multiple projects in multiple states, including three ongoing projects in Oregon * Identify potential new clients and project opportunities nationally with ...

WSP

Lead Forest Ecologist

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$141/hr

Serve as forester or forest ecologist on multiple projects in multiple states, including three ongoing projects in Oregon * Identify potential new clients and project opportunities nationally with ...

Anchor QEA

Managing Wetland Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

The work will include writing to present ecological data and document environmental findings to support projects and obtain regulatory permits and approvals. This position offers the opportunity to ...

Anchor QEA

Managing Wetland Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

The work will include writing to present ecological data and document environmental findings to support projects and obtain regulatory permits and approvals. This position offers the opportunity to ...

Anchor QEA

Managing Wetland Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

The work will include writing to present ecological data and document environmental findings to support projects and obtain regulatory permits and approvals. This position offers the opportunity to ...

Anchor Qea

Managing Wetland Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

The work will include writing to present ecological data and document environmental findings to support projects and obtain regulatory permits and approvals. This position offers the opportunity to ...

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All JobsEcologist JobsEcologist Jobs in Portland, OR

Ecologist information

See Portland, OR salary details

$36.6K

$63.1K

$110.3K

How much do ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecologist in Portland, OR is $63,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,800.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 biology, environmental science, and data analysis, with skills in GIS and fieldwork being valuable. Job growth is expected to be steady as environmental concerns increase globally.

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 data analysis, can lead to higher earnings. Entry-level positions tend to pay less, while senior or research positions may offer higher compensation.

What jobs do ecologists get?

Ecologists work in various roles such as environmental consultants, conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, and research scientists. They often work outdoors or in laboratories, using tools like GIS software and field equipment, and may require specialized certifications or advanced degrees depending on the position.
More about Ecologist jobs

What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in Portland, OR?

For Ecologist jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ecologist jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Ecologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Ecologist jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Ecologist job openings:

Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecologist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,150 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Research Ecologist

US Department of Commerce

Portland, OR • On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in conducting research with living marine resources and their habitats.

  • Contribute to scientific written reports and presentations.

  • Design ecological or populations assessments and support analyses for living marine resources.

U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 855 rated public administrative organizations

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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