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Entry Level Wildlife Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

Assistants are entry-level positions for Emerging Professionals with an interest in working with wildlife under human care. Assistants work with continuing full and part-time staff to support daily ...

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Entry Level Wildlife information

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How much do entry level wildlife jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wildlife in the United States is $23.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level wildlife jobs?

Entry level wildlife jobs are positions designed for individuals who are just starting their careers in wildlife biology, conservation, or management. These roles typically require little to no professional experience and may include titles such as wildlife technician, field assistant, or research intern. Duties often involve conducting field surveys, collecting data, assisting with habitat management, and supporting wildlife research projects. These jobs are a great way to gain hands-on experience and build foundational skills needed for more advanced roles in wildlife conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level wildlife technician, and why are they important?

Entry Level Wildlife Technicians typically need a background in biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with basic fieldwork experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and wildlife monitoring software is often required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are important soft skills. These qualifications enable accurate data gathering and effective support of conservation efforts, which are critical for wildlife management and research.

How do you start working with entry level wildlife?

To start working in entry-level wildlife positions, gaining relevant education such as a degree in biology, ecology, or environmental science is helpful. Volunteering or interning with conservation organizations, acquiring basic skills in animal handling and fieldwork, and obtaining certifications like First Aid or wildlife safety training can improve job prospects.

What job allows you to work with wild animals?

Entry level wildlife jobs, such as wildlife technician or assistant, involve working directly with wild animals in natural habitats or rehabilitation centers. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, fieldwork skills, and sometimes certifications in wildlife handling or safety. They provide hands-on experience with wild animals and contribute to conservation efforts.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife jobs?

The most popular types of Wildlife jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Wildlife jobs?

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Entry Level Wildlife jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wildlife job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 7% Internship, 74% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,268 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Fish and Wildlife Scientific Aid

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Department of Fish and Wildlife
See more jobs at Department of Fish and Wildlifeexternal

$18.26 - $21.67/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Work in the great outdoors! Be essential by working in the great outdoors at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) , where employees are valued and come together to manage and protect California's diverse fish, wildlife, and habitats, for their ecological values and public enjoyment! CDFW owns and manages public lands throughout Los Angeles county and CDFW is looking for someone to help reserve managers improve habitat conditions for wildlife, maintain infrastructure, facilities, and maintain the wildlife areas for species diversity. The person chosen for this position will assist reserve managers with conducting wildlife surveys weed abatement and will require the use of various equipment including power tools and hand tools to achieve the goals of the program. This is a part-time position that will provide good experience for someone looking to further their career with CDFW lands program.
This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week in alignment with Executive Order N-22-25. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs.
The Fish and Wildlife Scientific Aid classification is a non-testing classification.
The language below is required for these NT classifications.
• Applicants who receive public assistance under the CalWORKs program shall be given hiring priority consideration as provided in Government Code, Section 19063.
• Applicants who receive public assistance need to identify themselves as CalWORKs recipients in the comments section of the STD 678, Examination/Employment Application.
• Applicants must submit verification of CalWORKs eligibility, which may include the most recent Notice of Action showing Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) eligibility or a copy of the most recent aid check stub.
• Applicants may obtain verification from the CalWORKs program. If CalWORKs verification is not submitted with the application, it will not be processed as CalWORKs eligible.
• Participation by a public assistance recipient is voluntary and in no event shall any person be subject to sanctions, through loss of benefits or eligibility, for not applying for, accepting, or continuing in a seasonal or entry level non-testing classification opening.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Office will be located at the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve 13654 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292. Work involves irregular hours, including possible nights and weekends up to 8%, or holidays and to travel up to 8% to various CDFW owned reserve lands in San Diego County to perform field work, including working outdoors in inclement weather on uneven ground and possibly on boats. A valid driver's license is required for driving approximately 20% of their work time to and from field locations in remote or rural areas where alternative transportation is not feasible. Willingness to do heavy manual labor, and to wear a prescribed uniform.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • FISH AND WILDLIFE SCIENTIFIC AID
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-529995
Position #(s):
565-561-0835-905
Working Title:
Fish and Wildlife Scientific Aid
Classification:
FISH AND WILDLIFE SCIENTIFIC AID $18.26 - $21.67
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Los Angeles County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Non-Tenured, Intermittent
Department Information
Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) employees are committed to managing and protecting California's diverse wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend.
California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CDFW values diverse employees working together to protect nature for all Californians. CDFW is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures and personal experiences can thrive and connect others to our critical mission.
Join us and begin a meaningful new career!
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Special Requirements Must be able to lift 40 pounds and to be able to work independently in the field. Willingness to travel to attend training's related to job duties (with supervisory approval & at the Department's expense). Health consistent with performing strenuous fieldwork (i.e., wildlife survey work, trail construction, hiking, wading, swimming, brush clearing).
The selected candidate may be required to provide transcripts (may be unofficial).
This position requires possession of a valid Driver's License. The selected candidate will be required to provide a photocopy (front and back) of the license: Name as stated on the license, issuing state, DL #, Class, expiration.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/6/2026
Who May Apply
This is a non-testing Classification, therefore, anyone meeting the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply for this position. Individuals in specific programs, such as the Welfare to Work Program, are encouraged to apply and will be given priority according to the applicable Laws and Rules. Please note on your application your current participation in these programs. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
HRB Mailing Address
Attn: Human Resources Branch
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento , CA 94244
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Closed Drop Off Location
Human Resources Branch
Temporarily Closed
See Filing Instructions
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Good driving record; Background in biology, restoration work, wildlife surveys, construction and or landscaping related activities, trail work and equipment maintenance. Interest in and/or knowledge of trapping, hunting, fishing, or studying fish, wildlife, invertebrates, or plants etc.; experience in camping, boating, and maintaining or repairing equipment. Familiarity with hand and power tools including brush mowers, weed trimmers, drills, skill saws, and/or chainsaws.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: https://www.wildlife.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Jason Price
(858) 467-2719
Jason.Price@wildlife.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Civil Rights Office
(916) 902-9211
civilrights@wildlife.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Filing Instructions
You must reference Position Number 565-561-0835-905 and RPA Number E-R5 NH 26-004 in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) for Which You Are Applying section of the State Application Form (Std. Form 678). Applications that do not list the Position Number and RPA Number may not be considered.
It is recommended that Application Packages be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at https://jobs.ca.gov . If applications are mailed, we recommend applications are sent certified mail as we are unable to verify receipt.
Applications that do not follow the Filing Instructions may not be considered.
This advertisement may be used to fill additional vacancies for this JC.
Resume - Resumes will be reviewed in addition to the STD 678 for employment history. Resumes must include the complete to and from dates (MM/DD/YYYY) and hours worked per week.
All job applicants must provide their employment history on the application form (State Application STD 678) rather than attaching a resume to the form, otherwise the application may be considered incomplete.
Applicants must submit a complete and accurate application package, free from spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

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