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Ecologist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

TNT ENVIRONMENTAL INC

Wetland Scientist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Qualified candidates should have a degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, or Environmental Science, well developed written and oral communication skills and a desire to work in a team-oriented ...

TNT ENVIRONMENTAL INC

Wetland Scientist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Qualified candidates should have a degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, or Environmental Science, well developed written and oral communication skills and a desire to work in a team-oriented ...

CSS, Inc

GIS Analyst

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

The NOAA Seascape Ecology and Analytics (SEA) Branch is an interdisciplinary research group of contract and federal employees within NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science ( a nationally ...

CSS, Inc

GIS Analyst

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

The NOAA Seascape Ecology and Analytics (SEA) Branch is an interdisciplinary research group of contract and federal employees within NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science ( a nationally ...

CSS, Inc

GIS Analyst

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

The NOAA Seascape Ecology and Analytics (SEA) Branch is an interdisciplinary research group of contract and federal employees within NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science ( a nationally ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at breaking down cell processes, inheritance patterns, and ecological relationships for high school learners. Guides students through microscope use, genetics problem solving, food web ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Deep knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, animal and plant physiology, and biodiversity. Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA ...

Varsity Tutors

College Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$40/hr

Deep knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, animal and plant physiology, and biodiversity. Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Biology Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$40/hr

Deep knowledge of evolution, cellular processes, genetics and information transfer, energy metabolism, ecology, and biological systems interactions as outlined in the AP Biology framework. Ability to ...

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Ecologist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$35.9K

$62K

$108.2K

How much do ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecologist in Reston, VA is $61,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

More about Ecologist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Ecologist jobs in Reston, VA? For Ecologist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ecologist jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Ecologist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Ecologist jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Ecologist job openings:
Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecologist job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,950 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Wetland Scientist

TNT ENVIRONMENTAL INC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

TNT is seeking an Environmental Scientist with 2-5 years of relevant experience for its Chantilly, Virginia office. Qualified candidates should have a degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, or Environmental Science, well developed written and oral communication skills and a desire to work in a team-oriented environment. The position will entail a mixture of office and field work in all seasons of the year.
The primary responsibilities of the position are to conduct and manage routine to complex wetland and natural resource projects, work closely with a team of wetland and natural resource professionals and business development. Fundamental and working knowledge of local, state and federal regulatory regulations and processes in Virginia, Maryland, DC and West Virginia is critical.

Company Description

TNT Environmental, Inc. (TNT) is a multi-disciplined Wetland and Natural Resource consulting firm specializing in fields of biology, ecology, botany, forest ecology, and arboriculture. TNT’s diverse background enables it to assist on any project. TNT’s staff is trained in wetlands and Waters of the U.S. delineation, stream assessments, regulatory permitting, and wetland and stream mitigation, plus much more. Virginia Certified Professional Wetland Delineators (PWD), Professional Wetland Scientists (PWS), International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborists (ISA-CA), and Certified Ecologists make up the staff here at TNT.