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Entry Level Ecologist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Watershed Coordinator

Muscle Shoals, AL · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

This is an entry level and developmental role where assignments will familiarize you with a broad ... Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) in Biology, Forestry, Ecology, Plant Sciences, or a related ...

Entry Level Ecologist information

See Alabama salary details

$31.3K

$54K

$94.3K

How much do entry level ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecologist in Alabama is $53,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $67,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level ecologist do?

An entry-level ecologist studies the relationship between an organism and its environment. Many specialize in a particular area, such as wildlife management, conservation, or research. As a scientist, you typically spend a lot of time in the field collecting data and samples. Your other duties involve the statistical analyses of this information for developing long-term plans and strategies to manage a population and its habitat effectively. Your responsibilities also include publishing your findings and presenting them at conferences. You often interact with the general public and speak at schools or other events. Many find the opportunity to study nature as one of the most rewarding aspects of this career path.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ecologist, you need a background in environmental science or biology, strong analytical abilities, and fieldwork experience, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, ecological survey techniques, and data analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating on research and reporting findings. These skills and qualities are essential for accurately assessing ecosystems, supporting conservation efforts, and contributing to successful environmental projects.

What kinds of fieldwork and data collection can I expect as an entry level ecologist, and how is this work typically structured within a team?

As an entry level ecologist, you will often be involved in hands-on fieldwork such as surveying vegetation, recording wildlife observations, and collecting soil or water samples. This work is usually conducted in small teams and often requires close collaboration with more experienced ecologists who will guide you on data collection protocols and safety practices. Fieldwork schedules can vary, sometimes requiring early mornings, travel to remote sites, or work in challenging weather conditions. You'll also spend time entering, analyzing, and reporting data in the office, working with tools like GIS or statistical software. Teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail are essential for success in these tasks.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ecologist vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level EcologistEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Environmental Science or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research, data analysis, report writingField sampling, site assessments, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutionsEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, industrial sites

Entry Level Ecologists and Environmental Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, focusing on fieldwork and data collection. However, Entry Level Ecologists typically engage more in research and ecological analysis, while Environmental Technicians concentrate on sampling and site assessments. Both roles are essential in environmental projects and often work together within the same industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecologist jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Ecologist jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Alabama?

For Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Entry Level Ecologist jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Entry Level Ecologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecologist job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,973 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

$35K - $45K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Salary: $35,525.00 - $45,200.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Temporary/Full-Time
Job Number: 202300823
Department: Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences
Opening Date: 08/11/2026
Description
Summary:
Assist longleaf pine/oak forest restoration and wildlife research including such as data collection, data analysis, report preparation, and laboratory procedures, requiring initiative and judgment based on knowledge and understanding of forestry and wildlife ecology.
Examples of Duties
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist longleaf pine and oak forest restoration and wildlife ecology related research, including data collections and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by using independent judgment.
  • Assist in conducting experiments and surveys using various tests, routines and analyses, aerial photographs, maps and survey instruments where procedures are defined and results readily determined.
  • Assist in maintaining records of studies conducted, organizes data, prepares data for computer input and records computer output.
  • Assist in compiling data and generates computerized statistical data for analytical purposes using software; making preliminary analyses and assists researchers in interpreting the data.
  • Assist in conducting literature searches to find research information on related procedures and techniques that can be used in the laboratory and/or field.
  • Assist in preparing reports/publications of projects, documenting location, findings and procedures used; interacting with collaborators and participating in joint research and educational effort.
  • Assist in operating field and experimental equipment such as 4x4 trucks, GPS, radio telemetry, ATV, etc. and perform minor repairs and planning for major repairs to be performed.
  • Assist in caring research animals including birds and herps.
  • Assist in training students and staff in the operation of equipment and/or in the performance of technical and field procedures.
Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Bachelor's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment with the research experience appropriate to the area of assignment; or any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of the principles and techniques of ecology, wildlife, and forestry.
  • Knowledge of research methods, data collection and analyses of the fields above
  • Skill in effective communication, both verbal and written.
  • Skill in analyzing and evaluating data.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
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Do you have a bachelor's degree in a field appropriate to the area of assignment with the research experience appropriate to the area of assignment; or any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question