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Entry Level Wildlife Biologist Jobs in Tennessee

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

... wildlife biology, botany, history and park management. Education interns will assist with all ... is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field Excellent ...

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN · On-site

$700/wk

... wildlife biology, botany, history and park management. Education interns will assist with all ... is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field Excellent ...

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

... wildlife biology, botany, history and park management. Education interns will assist with all ... is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field Excellent ...

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All JobsEntry Level Wildlife Biologist JobsEntry Level Wildlife Biologist Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Wildlife Biologist information

See Tennessee salary details

$20.4K

$55.5K

$95.8K

How much do entry level wildlife biologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level wildlife biologist in Tennessee is $55,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $63,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Wildlife Biologist Do?

The responsibilities of an entry-level wildlife biologist vary based on your job title and specific biological interest. Some entry-level wildlife biologist jobs titles include environmental scientist, field researcher, seasonal biologist, wildlife control assistant, natural resources specialist, and fish and wildlife technician. Typical duties are to observe or study animals in their natural habitat, take field notes, conduct research, collect data, and prepare scientific reports. Someone in this field may work in remote areas, national parks, wildlife preserves, or in a lab. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, ecology, animal science, or a closely related natural science subject is required for most roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Wildlife Biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wildlife Biologist, you need foundational knowledge in biology, ecology, and environmental science, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, field sampling equipment, and data analysis tools is commonly required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication help you excel in both fieldwork and reporting. These skills are crucial for accurate data collection, analysis, and collaboration to support effective wildlife conservation and management efforts.

What types of fieldwork and data collection can an Entry Level Wildlife Biologist expect to do in their first year?

As an Entry Level Wildlife Biologist, you can expect to spend a significant portion of your time outdoors conducting fieldwork, which may include observing wildlife, setting up and checking traps or camera stations, collecting samples, and recording data on habitat conditions. You’ll also participate in surveys to monitor species populations and behaviors, often working in small teams or with more experienced biologists. This hands-on experience is essential for developing your research and data analysis skills, and it provides a strong foundation for advancement in wildlife management and conservation.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wildlife Biologist vs Entry Level Conservation Technician?

AspectEntry Level Wildlife BiologistEntry Level Conservation Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or related fieldBachelor's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentField research, data collection, wildlife monitoringHabitat restoration, field surveys, public outreach
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, research institutions, NGOsConservation organizations, government agencies, parks

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and involve outdoor work, but Wildlife Biologists focus more on research and data analysis, while Conservation Technicians emphasize habitat management and public engagement. They are complementary roles within conservation efforts, with overlapping skills and work environments.

More about Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Wildlife Biologist job openings:
Entry Level Wildlife Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wildlife Biologist job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 25% Hybrid, and 75% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,522 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Education Internship

Education Internship

Nashville Zoo

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | Fall 2026


OVERVIEW:

As an Education Intern at Nashville Zoo, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in interpretation, developing and leading education programs, and developing your knowledge on a variety of topics including conservation, wildlife biology, botany, history and park management.
Education interns will assist with all aspects of the Nashville Zoo Education Department. These duties include interpretation on grounds, onsite education programs, animal outreach programs, historic site management, and volunteer/teen program evaluations. Education interns will become familiar with conservation education best practices and demonstrate the effectiveness of its programs for achieving mission-based outcomes.


TIME COMMITMENT:

This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime.


RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually
Interpreting for a variety of species throughout the zoo and at the Grassmere historic home and farm
Creating programs aligned with Nashville Zoo's Program Content Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and Common Core Standards in Science, Math, Reading and Language Arts
Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development
Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo
Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern's department.


APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:
Must be at least 18 years of age and current
Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads
Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior
This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.


INTERN TRAINING:


All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the course of their internship.


BENEFITS:
Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
$700 living stipend for each 12-week term
Housing provided if outside of a 40 mile radius of Nashville Zoo
Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care
Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals
Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.

Pre-Employment Requirements:
Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.
Provide proof of a negative TB test.
Provide proof of a valid driver's license.


APPLICATION PROCESS - Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:
Resume
Cover Letter
Two (2) Letters of Recommendation

Additionally, we ask you to complete this anonymous survey.

Apply