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Ecology Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... Interest in climate change, environmental sciences, ecological stewardship, and environmental ...

$19 - $26/hr

... research assistant to support active research projects centered on the human ecology of infectious ... Assisting with cleaning, coding, and analysis of rodent ecology datasets (trapping records, species ...

Research Assistant

University Park, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

... research assistant to support active research projects centered on the human ecology of infectious ... Assisting with cleaning, coding, and analysis of rodent ecology datasets (trapping records, species ...

$15 - $19/hr

The Sweetman Lab in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is seeking a lab assistant position for research examining the impact of macroplastic pollution on freshwater ecosystems in ...

What is your experience working with ecological datasets? * What programs have you used to process ... Research Assistant position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head This ...

New

$16/hr

We are recruiting research assistants for the Lowry Weed Ecology Lab to assist with experiments in both the field and greenhouse. Job duties to include: * collection and processing of plant and soil ...

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Ecology Research Assistant information

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How much do ecology research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ecology research assistant in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ecology Research Assistant vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEcology Research AssistantEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in ecology, biology, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, universitiesFieldwork, environmental monitoring sites, government agencies
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, universities, environmental NGOsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, environmental services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Ecology Research Assistant and an Environmental Technician lies in their focus and work environment. Ecology Research Assistants primarily conduct research in labs and field sites related to ecological studies, often working in academic or research institutions. Environmental Technicians tend to focus on environmental monitoring, data collection, and compliance in field settings, often employed by government or consulting firms. Both roles require related educational backgrounds, but their job functions and work settings differ significantly.

What does an ecology research assistant do?

An Ecology Research Assistant supports scientists in studying ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental impacts. Their tasks often include collecting field data, conducting laboratory analyses, managing samples, and recording observations. They may also help with literature reviews, data entry, and preparing reports or presentations. This role is essential in advancing ecological research and informing conservation efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ecology research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ecology Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biological or environmental sciences, data collection, and statistical analysis, often supported by a bachelor's degree in ecology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, field sampling equipment, and data analysis programs like R or SPSS is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in field and lab environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting accurate research and contributing valuable insights to ecological studies.

What are some common fieldwork challenges faced by ecology research assistants, and how can they be managed?

Ecology Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need to work long or irregular hours in remote locations. Managing these challenges involves thorough preparation—packing appropriate gear, staying updated on weather forecasts, and maintaining strong communication with team members. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits, as is attention to safety protocols to handle unexpected situations in the field. Building experience over time helps assistants become more efficient and confident in overcoming these obstacles.
More about Ecology Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Ecology Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Ecology Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ecology Research jobs? The most popular types of Ecology Research jobs are:
What states have the most Ecology Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Ecology Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ecology Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ecology Research Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ecology Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,571 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

$18/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Utah State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

USU's Department of Wildland Resources seeks detail-oriented, motivated candidates for a part-time, hourly Ecology Research Assistant to assist the Adler Lab with it's research on cheatgrass invasions in Pinyon-Juniper woodlands.


  • Follow sample processing protocols
  • Process (dry and weigh) laboratory samples of plant biomass
  • Count seeds
  • Ensure high quality data collection
  • Enter data and maintain the database
  • Report problems to supervisor
  • Perform other laboratory tasks as needed

  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to focus on detail-oriented work for extended periods

Along with the online application, please attach:

  • Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
  • Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**


$18/hour

Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. The employee often uses repetitive hand motions. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms, may lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and may stand, walk, and/or sit for extended periods. Employees must adhere to safety precautions and may be required to use protective equipment.


Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level in 16 sports, USU is a proud member of the Pac-12 Conference, officially joining on July 1, 2026. The Aggies capped a historic final season in the Mountain West by capturing nine combined regular-season and tournament titles in 2025–26, with five teams advancing to postseason play. This tradition of excellence extends to the classroom, where 232 student-athletes earned academic honors, and to the community, where USU ranked second nationally in Division I service hours, with nine teams placing in the top 10 for community service.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. 

The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

*updated 07/2026


In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.

In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

Matthew Pinner

Executive Director

Civil Rights & Title IX Office

matthew.pinner@usu.edu

435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 401D

1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

Cody Carmichael

Title IX Coordinator

cody.carmichael@usu.edu

435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 402D

1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:

U.S. Department of Education

Denver Regional Office

303-844-5695| OCR.Denver@ed.gov

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

800-421-3481 |  OCR@ed.gov

*updated 10/2025


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