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Ecosystem Science Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Life Sciences Tutor

Lexington, KY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain DNA replication, natural selection, ecosystem dynamics, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and homeostasis while preparing students for health sciences, advanced biology ...

Varsity Tutors

Life Sciences Tutor

Louisville, KY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain DNA replication, natural selection, ecosystem dynamics, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and homeostasis while preparing students for health sciences, advanced biology ...

Humana, Inc.

Senior Insider Threat Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

... ecosystem to detect, investigate, and mitigate insider risks. The position partners with Security ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Data Science, or related ...

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All JobsEcosystem Science JobsEcosystem Science Jobs in Kentucky

Ecosystem Science information

See Kentucky salary details

$22.9K

$86K

$171.7K

How much do ecosystem science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ecosystem science in Kentucky is $85,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,663.00 and $113,391.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying ecology job?

The highest paying ecology jobs are often in environmental consulting, ecological research leadership, or senior roles in conservation organizations, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive experience tend to offer the highest compensation in the field of ecology.

What is ecosystem science?

Ecosystem science is the study of interactions among organisms and their environment as a system. It focuses on understanding how living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components of ecosystems, such as plants, animals, microbes, soil, water, and climate, interact to shape the structure and function of natural systems. Ecosystem scientists investigate processes like nutrient cycling, energy flow, and ecosystem services, often to inform conservation, land management, and policy. This field is interdisciplinary, combining biology, ecology, geography, and environmental science to address complex environmental challenges.

What job studies ecosystems?

Ecosystem scientists or ecologists study ecosystems by analyzing interactions among organisms and their environment. They often work in research, conservation, or environmental consulting, using tools like GIS and field surveys, and may require a background in biology, ecology, or environmental science.

How much do ecosystem scientists make?

Ecosystem scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in GIS, data analysis, or fieldwork may have higher salaries, especially in research institutions or government agencies.

What are some typical collaborative projects or partners an Ecosystem Scientist might work with?

Ecosystem Scientists frequently collaborate with government agencies, conservation organizations, and academic researchers to address environmental challenges such as habitat restoration, biodiversity monitoring, or climate impact assessments. These projects often involve multidisciplinary teams, incorporating expertise from hydrology, wildlife biology, and data science. Building strong partnerships is essential, as these collaborations enable Ecosystem Scientists to gather comprehensive data, apply for joint funding, and implement effective management strategies across large landscapes.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In ecosystem science and related biology fields, roles such as environmental managers, conservation directors, and senior ecological consultants often have salaries exceeding $100,000. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive field experience, and skills in data analysis, project management, and environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ecosystem Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ecosystem Scientist, you need a strong background in ecology, biology, environmental science, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as a BSc or MSc in environmental or biological sciences. Competence with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field sampling equipment is commonly required, along with certifications in environmental monitoring or research methods. Critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are essential soft skills for synthesizing data and working with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately assessing ecosystem health, informing conservation efforts, and guiding sustainable management decisions.

What is the difference between Ecosystem Science vs Environmental Science?

AspectEcosystem ScienceEnvironmental Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Biology, or Environmental ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentField research, ecological monitoring, data analysisLaboratory, fieldwork, policy analysis
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, conservation agencies, universitiesGovernment agencies, NGOs, consulting firms

Both Ecosystem Science and Environmental Science involve understanding ecological systems, but Ecosystem Science focuses specifically on the interactions within ecosystems, often emphasizing field research and ecological modeling. Environmental Science has a broader scope, including pollution, policy, and sustainability issues. Professionals in both fields often share similar credentials and work environments, but their focus areas differ, making them distinct yet related careers.

What are popular job titles related to Ecosystem Science jobs in Kentucky? For Ecosystem Science jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ecosystem Science jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Ecosystem Science jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Ecosystem Science jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Ecosystem Science job openings:
Ecosystem Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ecosystem Science job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,990 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling

Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling

Murray State University

Murray, KY • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Murray State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

585th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Details
Position Information
Posting Number
20270003EX
Job Title
Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling
Number of Vacancies
1
About Murray State
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment
Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location
Murray, KY
Employment Term
12 Months
Position Type
Staff - Exempt (Monthly)
Department
Watershed Studies Institute
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
Full-time, two-year position beginning January 2027. A renewal for a third year is possible.
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the Watershed Studies Institute (WSI) and the Department of Biological Sciences at Murray State University. The Moon Lab seeks a highly motivated researcher to integrate empirical greenhouse gas flux measurements with watershed modeling to quantify coupled carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Modeling efforts will initially focus on bottomland hardwood forests but may extend to other systems. The postdoctoral researcher will lead the development of modeling protocols for student researchers, develop a methane sub-model, and mentor undergraduate and master's-level graduate students in modeling and ecosystem lab and field studies. The postdoctoral researcher will also teach one course per semester in biology.
Murray, Kentucky, is uniquely situated near numerous natural areas, including the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky Lake Reservoir, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, and multiple Wildlife Management Areas and state nature preserves. Murray State University also maintains substantial research infrastructure through WSI, including the Hancock Biological Station, the Mapping Applications Resource Center, and the Chemical Services Laboratory.
Minimum Education Requirements
Ph.D. in ecology, biogeochemistry, environmental science, or a closely related field. ABDs with a documented plan of completion by appointment date will be considered.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the expectation of publishing peer-reviewed research, contributing to grant development, and engaging with regional stakeholders is required.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Previous modeling experience is preferred. Candidates with strong quantitative skills interested in ecological modeling are encouraged to apply. Experience with microbial ecology in biogeochemical applications, is also considered a plus.
Physical Demands
Work Hours
Hourly Rate/Annual Salary
$46,148 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Staff Grade
112
Posting Details
Posting Date
07/21/2026
Closing Date
08/21/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, the following items must be included:
  • Letter of application detailing career goals and research experience
  • Curriculum Vitae

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