2

Entry Level Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Consultant in Ecology Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United ... This position will work with all levels of expertise from entry level team members to members with ...

Associate Consultant in Ecology Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United ... This position will work with all levels of expertise from entry level team members to members with ...

About Us MNL is a full-service ecological restoration company dedicated to Healing the Earth. Our ... The Opportunity The Wetland & Environmental Services Specialist is an entry-level professional role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Ecologist information

See salary details

$34.5K

$59.5K

$104K

How much do entry level ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,547 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Wildlife Biologist (Entry-Level/Part-Time) (Southwest of Yellow Pine, ID)

Wildlife Biologist (Entry-Level/Part-Time) (Southwest of Yellow Pine, ID)

Tetra Tech

Boise, ID • Remote

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 352 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding an Entry-Level Wildlife Biologist to support avian field surveys in forested and riparian habitats near Yellow Pine, Idaho. This role is ideal for candidates with 1-2 years of experience who are ready to build field skills while working independently in a remote environment.

The position focuses on avian nest clearance searches and baseline presence surveys, with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in wildlife data collection and exposure to broader ecological work. Training will be provided, and the role offers potential for extension based on project needs.

Housing and meals will be provided while working at the remote field site.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Conduct avian nest clearance surveys and presence/absence surveys
  • Identify common Idaho bird species by sight and sound
  • Collect and record accurate field data following standardized protocols
  • Maintain detailed field notes using paper forms and/or electronic devices
  • Work independently in remote forested and riparian environments
  • Support additional ecological field studies and data collection as needed
  • Assist with technical reporting and data organization
  • Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
  • Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
  • Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
  • Additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

  • 1-2 years of relevant experience (including at least one field season conducting avian surveys)
  • Ability to identify common bird species of Idaho by sight and song
  • Interest in avian biology, breeding behavior, and ecology
  • Ability to work independently in remote field conditions
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow data collection protocols
  • Willingness to work outdoors in variable weather conditions
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Coursework or degree in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or related field
  • Experience with avian nest monitoring or breeding bird surveys
  • Familiarity with forest and riparian ecosystems

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to:
    • Walk long distances on uneven terrain
    • Work extended hours in remote outdoor environments
    • Carry field equipment as needed

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:

  • Field-based work in a remote location near Yellow Pine, ID
  • Exposure to forest, riparian habitats, and varying weather conditions
  • Housing and meals provided during field deployment
  • Work conducted independently or in small field teams

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
  • Medical benefits, workers compensation insurance, and 401(k) plan.
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Pay Range: $25.00-$35.00 hourly

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.

Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers  Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers

X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

Additional Information
  • Organization: 194 CES

What Tetra Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom