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Entry Level Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dragonfly Pond Works

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species ... Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or ...

Dragonfly Pond Works

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species ... Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or ...

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Entry Level Ecology information

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$16.5K

$41.6K

$60.5K

How much do entry level ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecology in the United States is $41,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 typically need a degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field, with foundational knowledge in biological and ecological principles. Familiarity with GIS software, field sampling equipment, and data analysis tools is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively collect data and collaborate on research projects. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable analysis, and productive fieldwork, all of which are vital for ecological research and conservation efforts.

What types of fieldwork and data collection are typically expected in an entry-level ecology position?

Entry-level ecology roles often involve a mix of outdoor fieldwork and laboratory tasks. You may be responsible for collecting soil, water, or plant samples, monitoring wildlife populations, and recording environmental data in various weather conditions. Collaboration with more experienced ecologists or conservation teams is common to ensure data accuracy and safety in the field. These experiences provide valuable hands-on skills and foundational knowledge, which are highly regarded for career advancement in ecology.

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

AspectEntry Level EcologyEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research sites, laboratoriesField surveys, sampling, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, NGOsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies

Entry Level Ecology and Environmental Technician roles often require similar educational backgrounds and involve fieldwork and data collection. However, Entry Level Ecology typically emphasizes research and ecological analysis, while Environmental Technicians focus more on sampling, monitoring, and supporting environmental assessments. Both roles serve the environmental industry but differ slightly in job focus and responsibilities.

More about Entry Level Ecology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Ecology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ecology jobs? The most popular types of Ecology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ecology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ecology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ecology jobs are:
Entry Level Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,569 per year, or $20 per hour.

Ecologist

Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Overview
As an Entry Level Ecologist for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) in our Knoxville, Tennessee office, you will support stream and wetland assessment, restoration, and permitting projects for a variety of public and private sector clients.
As an Ecologist, you will have the opportunity to participate in tasks ranging from field data collection and stream and wetland assessments to stream restoration projects for a variety of public and private sector clients. This role offers a balance of field and office responsibilities while providing training in technical expertise, data interpretation, financial management, and client development. You will work closely with senior team members who will mentor you throughout all phases of projects-from proposal development through final deliverables-while helping you grow into a well-rounded environmental consultant.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct stream and wetland delineations and ecological field assessments
  • Perform stream restoration assessments and support restoration projects
  • Collect, analyze, and document environmental field data
  • Prepare technical reports, permit applications, and regulatory documentation
  • Support TDEC ARAP and Section 401/404 permitting efforts
  • Utilize GIS and ESRI ArcGIS software to prepare maps and analyze project data
  • Assist with stream and wetland mitigation projects and compliance monitoring
  • Coordinate with project teams, regulatory agencies, and clients
  • Support proposal preparation and project deliverables
  • Participate in field work across a variety of environmental and ecological project sites

Our Knoxville office, located in the heart of East Tennessee, is home to a dynamic and collaborative team of professionals. Nestled near the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. The city boasts excellent schools and a thriving downtown with restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor spaces. Whether you're exploring the nearby national park, enjoying a University of Tennessee game, or connecting with a supportive professional network, Knoxville is a great place to live, work, and grow.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology, Forestry, Environmental Science, Ecology, Geology, or a related natural sciences field
  • 0-2 years of experience performing stream and wetland delineations
  • Experience using GIS mapping tools and ESRI ArcGIS software
  • Experience with technical writing, data analysis, and report preparation
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience managing and prioritizing multiple project tasks
  • Physical capability to lift 25-50 pounds and perform field work in varying site conditions

Preferred Capabilities
  • Experience supporting stream and wetland mitigation projects
  • Familiarity with TDEC ARAP permitting and Section 401/404 Clean Water Act regulations
  • Experience performing Tennessee Stream Quantification Tool (SQT) assessments or other geomorphic assessments
  • Experience supporting stream restoration or ecological restoration projects
  • Experience working on multidisciplinary environmental consulting projects

About Us
We have experts! CEC is consistently ranked as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record. We are looking for people who enjoy using their education and experience to solve difficult technical problems and work on interesting projects. You can accomplish this while working with a team of professionals who are equally motivated to provide high levels of service to our clients and to teach you along the way.
We have support! We have a variety of Employee Resource Groups, including CEC Community - focused on giving back to the communities in which we work; CEC Ignite - focused on helping professionals early in their careers to develop their pathway; CEC iDEA - focused on inclusion, diversity, equality, and acceptance; and CEC Women - focused on creating internal and external opportunities for women to network and leverage professional experience!
We care about our people! People and Culture are two of the five elements of our strategic plan. When you care about your people, they will want to grow a career with you - that is our goal. CEC offers you a small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities. Not only will we help you develop professionally, but we will also provide an opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success.
CEC offers a matching 401(k); profit sharing; a performance bonus; company stock; medical, dental, and vision insurance; short and long-term disability; tuition assistance; professional development; and work-life balance.
CEC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.
THIRD PARTY RECRUITERS
If CEC has not expressly requested recruiting services or contractually engaged with you for recruiting services on a specific position, any resumes or candidate profiles sent to CEC shall be considered unsolicited. Therefore, any such submissions will be considered property of CEC, with no associated fees due to your firm.

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