2

Entry Level Ecologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Ecologist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$33.7K

$58.1K

$101.5K

How much do entry level ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecologist in Decatur, GA is $58,138.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $72,200.00 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 Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA? For Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Entry Level Ecologist jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Entry Level Ecologist job openings:
Environmental Inspector/Wetland Scientist

Environmental Inspector/Wetland Scientist

Brown and Caldwell

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$72.10K - $94.70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Inspector / Wetland Scientist to support environmental compliance and natural resource permitting for natural gas and power infrastructure projects throughout the Atlanta metro area and greater Georgia region. This role involves field-based environmental inspections, wetland delineations, regulatory compliance monitoring, and coordination with project teams to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will conduct environmental inspections for construction sites associated with natural gas pipelines, electric transmission/distribution, and power generation projects; perform and document wetland delineations and stream assessments in accordance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) methodology; prepare inspection reports and provide guidance to field crews on best management practices for erosion control and environmental protection; and develop professional relationships with clients and crews in the field and work to resolve compliance issues.
The Environmental Inspector/Wetland Scientist role will take on more complex evaluations and fieldwork related to biology, ecology, chemistry, toxicology or risk assessment. The duties may include conducting samples, performing habitat assessments, modeling, data review, and report preparation. This position may also conduct wetland delineations and review lab data from chemistry or bioassay evaluations. This position will be expected to adhere to health and safety and quality protocols.
Responsibilities
  • Perform tasks in area of specialty.
  • Conduct wetland delineations, habitat assessments, chemistry data reviews or risk calculations.
  • Lead routine field investigations.
  • Complete components of human health and ecological risk assessments.
  • Run simple models.
  • Implement Work Plans and established procedures.
  • Flexibility to adapt and execute various additional assignments based on evolving needs.

Mentorship
  • May provide mentorship, guidance, support, and knowledge-sharing to help entry-level team members develop their skills and grow within their roles.

Skills and Competencies
  • Knowledge in one or more areas relevant to environmental or life sciences, such as aquatic and terrestrial ecology, biology, environmental science, soil science, microbiology, toxicology, chemistry or risk assessment.
  • Strong quantitative skills.
  • Accurate recording of field events.
  • Strong written and communications skills.
  • Ability to learn and apply new skills and knowledge in relevant applications of environmental sciences.

Experience
  • Typically requires minimum of 2 years of life sciences or related experience. • Typically certified in the SMS Framework, and progressing through the SMS competencies.

Education
  • A degree in life sciences or related field or equivalent experience is required.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Experience working with natural gas and electrical/power clients
  • Candidates must possess one or more of the following State of Georgia certifications (or ability to obtain quickly):
    • Georgia Erosion & Sediment Control Certified Inspector (Level 1B or higher)
    • Georgia Erosion & Sediment Control Certified Design Professional (Level II) (preferred)
    • Any additional Georgia-specific environmental compliance certifications are a plus
  • Completion of the USACE 40-Hour Wetland Delineation Course
  • Familiarity with Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and EPD permitting processes
  • GIS experience (ArcGIS or similar)
  • HAZWOPER certification
  • Field-intensive role requiring work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
  • Ability to walk long distances, navigate wetlands, and carry field equipment
  • Travel within the Atlanta metro area, surrounding regions (occasionally overnight), and occasional out of state travel.

Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee's primary work location and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education. These ranges may be modified in the future.
Location A: $71,000 - $96,000
You can view which BC location applies to you here. If you have any questions, please speak with your Recruiter.
Benefits and Other Compensation: We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee health, performance, and success which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off and parental leave, paid holidays, 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match, performance-based bonus eligibility, employee referral bonuses, tuition reimbursement, pet insurance and long-term care insurance. Click here to see our full list of benefits.
About Brown and Caldwell
Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and construction services firm with 50 offices and over 2,100 professionals across North America and the Pacific. For more than 75 years, we have created leading-edge environmental solutions for municipalities, private industry, and government agencies. We strive to be the company of choice-to our clients, who benefit from our passion for delivering exceptional quality, and to our employees, present and future, who share our commitment to client service, collaboration, and innovation. Join us, and you will find a home where you can do your best work, reach new levels of expertise, and enjoy exceptional development opportunities. For more information, visit www.brownandcaldwell.com
This position is subject to a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.
Notice to Third Party Agencies: Brown and Caldwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and approved engagement request with Brown and Caldwell, Brown and Caldwell reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.
Brown and Caldwell is proud to be an EEO/AAP Employer. Brown and Caldwell encourages protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, and applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Brown and Caldwell ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
#LI-Hybrid
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.