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Entry Level Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kleinschmidt

Entry-Level Structural Engineer

Madison, WI · Hybrid

$65K - $86K/yr

Kleinschmidt has a full-time opening for an Entry Level Structural Engineer to perform analysis ... and ecological restoration projects in the U.S. and Canada. The position will require the ...

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Entry Level Ecologist information

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$34.5K

$59.5K

$104K

How much do entry level ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecologist in the United States is $59,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $74,000.00 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 does an entry level ecologist do?

An entry level ecologist assists in studying the relationships between organisms and their environments. They often collect and analyze data from fieldwork, help monitor wildlife populations, and support ecological surveys or habitat assessments. Their duties may include preparing reports, mapping habitats, and collaborating with more experienced ecologists or environmental scientists. Entry level ecologists play an important role in conservation projects and environmental impact assessments, often gaining hands-on experience as they develop their skills.

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.

More about Entry Level Ecologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ecologist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Ecologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ecologist jobs? The most popular types of Ecologist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Ecologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ecologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ecologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ecologist jobs are:
Entry Level Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 93% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,547 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Project Scientist IV

Project Scientist IV

Barge Design Solutions, Inc.

Cordova, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Barge Design Solutions is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Project Scientist IV to join our Environmental & Natural Resources team in either the Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Tennessee, or Atlanta, Georgia offices. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting ecological assessments, wetland delineations, wildlife habitat evaluations, and permitting in support of a variety of projects across multiple industries. You will work closely with project teams to ensure environmental compliance and contribute to sustainable design solutions.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in biology or environmental science, with hands-on experience in fieldwork, data collection, and environmental permitting. Familiarity with federal, state, and local environmental regulations, particularly in the southeastern U.S., is essential.

If you are passionate about conservation, ecological assessments, and regulatory compliance, and looking for an opportunity to work in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment, we encourage you to apply!

Responsibilities:

  • Lead Scientist on various conventional projects
  • Mentors and may review work of entry level staff for quality purposes
  • Provides direction to other scientists on challenging issues providing guidance for resolution
  • Up to 80-percent of work is in the field and could involve local and overnight travel
  • Working knowledge of federal, state and local agency jurisdictional determinations and experience in permit applications and the submittal process with state and federal agencies
  • Strong working knowledge of GIS and other essential equipment needed for field and office work
  • Assist Project Managers in acquisition of new and existing clients
  • Conducts on-site visits to monitor progress of projects as needed ensuring compliance and alignment of work to ensure projects progression as needed and defined.  If issues arise, adjusts plans as appropriate and communicates changes with appropriate stakeholders

Apply