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Entry Level Ecology Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

This role will be a key link between entry level biologists and senior biologists. Essential ... Lead and execute field surveys, data collection, and ecological assessments for diverse projects.

Entry Level Ecology information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16.7K

$41.9K

$61.1K

How much do entry level ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecology in Riverside, CA is $41,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,301.00 and $47,933.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Ecology jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Ecology job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecology job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 53% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,948 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Wildlife Biologist II/Arborist

TYPSA INC

Irvine, CA • On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

We are currently seeking resumes from qualified, responsible, self-sufficient, energetic Wildlife Biologist’s currently holding an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Arborist Certification for our Irvine, California office. The ideal candidate will be motivated to develop and build their personal knowledge and skills to assist with the growth and success of the office and company. We offer a friendly, professional atmosphere with excellent benefits and a salary commensurate with experience.


Job Description:

The position entails a mid-level biologist possessing general knowledge and experience with the assessment of impacts from various development projects on flora, fauna, and the natural environments in the Southwest US (California and Arizona). The ideal candidate can lead a small project team of biologists to conduct field assessments independently. This role will be a key link between entry level biologists and senior biologists. Essential qualifications for this position include beyond basic understanding of the natural systems of Southern California, including various habitat types, and vegetation communities. Desirable qualification includes a sound knowledge of California and Arizona regulatory agencies and their regulatory oversight of natural resources.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and execute field surveys, data collection, and ecological assessments for diverse projects.
  • Conduct (pre-construction) wildlife/plant habitat assessments and surveys (including jurisdictional waters and wetlands).
  • Monitor construction activities and ensure compliance with applicable permit conditions
  • Review health and inventory plant material on construction sites
  • Assist with the development of plant salvage plans and documentation
  • Record and identify flora and flora.
  • Independently collect, compile, and analyze biological data collected in the field and/or from desktop research.
  • Prepare survey reports, habitat suitability assessments, and technical memorandums related to biological resources.
  • Under the guidance of a Senior Biologist, prepare biological assessment/evaluation reports, and various plans such as mitigation plans, habitat restoration plans, and habitat conservation plans.
  • Under the guidance of a Senior Biologist, prepare biological sections of various technical documents (such as CEQA and NEPA documents).
  • Prepare application packages for Clean Water Act Section 404 permits, Section 401 water quality certifications, and Section 1602 Lake and Streambed Alterations.
  • Develop appropriate and feasible mitigation measures.
  • Collect, compile, and analyze geospatial data using GPS equipment and GIS software.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Job Qualifications (Education, Experience, and Skills):

  • Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, botany, conservation biology, ecology, natural resources, or a closely related field
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in the fields of wildlife or fisheries biology
  • ISA Certified Arborist
  • Field experience in the Southwest US with native threatened/endangered wildlife or plant species
  • References regarding experience will be required.
  • Knowledge of Southwest US (including California and Arizona) flora and fauna and natural communities.
  • Knowledge of Southwest US (including California and Arizona) regulatory agencies with oversight of natural resources.
  • Proficient understanding of the federal Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act and National Environmental Policy Act.
  • Proficient understanding of the California Endangered Species Act, California Department of Fish and Game Section 1602, and California Environmental Quality Act.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, as well as computer hardware and software skills.
  • Ability to collaborate closely with fellow employees and clients.
  • Ability to work independently on one’s own initiative as well as a member of a diverse team.
  • Ability to foster a positive work environment and organize and progress multiple assignments.
  • Ability to pass a background check.
  • Valid driver's license, with the ability to maintain insurability under the company's insurance carrier


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with GPS equipment and GIS software or other spatial analysis tools.
  • Additional arborist certifications such as American Society of Certified Arborists (ASCA), ISA Certified Arborist Specialties (Municipal, Utilities, and Tree Risk Assessor), and ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ).
  • Experience preparing environmental regulatory compliance documents such as biological assessments/evaluations.
  • Experience with Clean Water Action Sections 404 and 401 compliance and permitting.
  • Experience with the California Department of Fish and Game Section 1602 Lake and Streambed Alteration agreements.
  • California linear project experience (utility line, transmission line, roadway, railway, etc.), is preferred
  • Survey and/or monitoring experience with the following species: Western burrowing owl, blunt nose leopard lizard, San Joaquin kit fox, Tipton kangaroo rat, giant kangaroo rat, and Swainson’s hawk.
  • Experience with and ability to lead nesting migratory bird surveys
  • Experience with and ability to lead native plant surveys
  • Attended an agency-led training for and experience surveying for protected species including but not limited to federally-listed, state-listed species, Bureau of Land Management sensitive species, and US Forest Service sensitive species.


Other Requirements:

  • Ability to work in harsh outdoor conditions (heat, cold, dust, wind, and rough terrain).
  • Ability to travel with overnight stays for extended periods.
  • Ability to climb stairs without assistance.
  • Ability to lift 30 pounds and carry a 30-pound backpack for at least 1 hour.
  • Ability to use a computer while sitting for extended periods, daily.

Competencies (To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies):

  • Communicative – interacts openly with others; can maintain relationships, works well independently or with a team.
  • Consultative - Consults with other disciplines as needed; tolerates different perspectives or opinions.
  • Decisive & Action Oriented - Has a high level of energy and stamina; gets things done; makes sound educated but rapid decisions even when short of information; enjoys managing challenging projects and works well in fast-paced and pressure environments. Self-motivated and proactive
  • Flexible - Adapts to new challenges and circumstances; able to multi-task; thrives on variety and frequently changing environments; creative problem solver. Resourcefulness, with minimal direction.
  • Analytical – Uses sound data, and procedures, and follows all laws, rules, and regulations but is a solutionist or problem-solver.
  • Conscientious and Organized – Believes professional integrity is paramount; understands the importance of project records; responsive to clients and deadline oriented; quality oriented.


Working Conditions and Environment:

Will need the ability to establish rapport quickly with others working on the same project, and be able to promote a positive team environment. Working knowledge of dealing with a diverse population while using tact, diplomacy, and respect.


TYPSA, Inc. Culture:

  • Thinking toward future company and personal growth
  • Yielding equity, inclusion, and diversity
  • Passionate supporter of clients and teammates
  • Shared comradery
  • Action oriented and flexible


TYPSA, Inc. Benefits:

TYPSA, Inc. offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, short and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, Paid-time-Off, and a 401(k) plan.

TYPSA, Inc. Overview:

TYPSA in the United States is a multi-discipline engineering and environmental consulting firm assisting public and private clients in planning, developing, designing, constructing, and maintaining critical infrastructure projects across the United States. With offices in Arizona and California, TYPSA provides local expertise with the backing of a global network.

Originally established in 1992 as AZTEC Engineering Group, Inc., the company began as a two-person DBE firm and grew into a trusted corporation serving clients nationwide. In 2006, AZTEC joined TYPSA Group, an international leader in engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting headquartered in Spain with more than 60 offices worldwide.

Today, as TYPSA in the United States, we proudly carry forward the AZTEC legacy while connecting our clients to the resources, innovation, and international experience of the TYPSA Group. This integration allows us to deliver tailored local solutions with the depth and reach of a global firm.

TYPSA, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to affirmative action planning and encourages diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, veteran status, housing status, or any other non-job-related characteristic under applicable law.

Please apply online at www.typsa.us/career.