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Field Biologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ERM

Field Biologist

Carpinteria, CA

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction special status species surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are remote and require Biologist to work independently.

ERM

Field Biologist

Irvine, CA

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction special status species surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are remote and require Biologist to work independently.

ERM

Field Biologist

Irvine, CA

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction special status species surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are remote and require Biologist to work independently.

OMS Group

Field Biologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$21.63 - $31.25/hr

Description OMS Consulting Services is hiring a Field Biologist who will be conducting biological monitoring for protected and sensitive species within the State of California. Delineating and ...

Keish Environmental PC

$38 - $50/hr

Keish Environmental is seeking a Field Biologist (On-Call/As Needed) to conduct biological surveys, assessments, and compliance monitoring for infrastructure projects in California's Bay Area and ...

Keish Environmental PC

$38 - $50/hr

Keish Environmental is seeking a Field Biologist (On-Call/As Needed) for jobs starting in Spring/Summer 2027 to conduct biological surveys, assessments, and compliance monitoring for infrastructure ...

GPA Consulting

On-call Field Biologist

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

GPA is currently seeking an Field Biologist to join our team of biologists in Southern California. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: The ideal candidate will have: * At least 3 years of experience ...

ERM

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Avila Beach, CA · On-site

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are often remote and require biologists to work independently. * Electronic data ...

ERM

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are often remote and require biologists to work independently. * Electronic data ...

ERM

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Fresno, CA

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are often remote and require biologists to work independently. * Electronic data ...

ERM

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are often remote and require biologists to work independently. * Electronic data ...

ERM

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Los Angeles, CA

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction surveys across the client's project area. * Work locations are often remote and require biologists to work independently. * Electronic data ...

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All JobsField Biologist JobsField Biologist Jobs in California

Field Biologist information

See California salary details

$22.2K

$60.4K

$104.1K

How much do field biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for field biologist in California is $60,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a field biologist?

A field biologist is a scientist who studies organisms and their environments in natural settings, rather than in laboratories. Their work often involves observing and collecting data on plants, animals, and ecosystems to better understand ecological relationships and the impact of environmental changes. Field biologists may work in diverse habitats, from forests and oceans to deserts and wetlands, and often contribute to conservation efforts, wildlife management, and environmental research.

What does a field biologist do?

As a field biologist, your job is to study wildlife in its natural environment. This involves using both biology and botany knowledge to research living things in the wilderness instead of a laboratory. One of the most important aspects this job is studying how living things interact with each other in a complex ecosystem. Using this information, you support wildlife management, habitat improvement, environmental landscaping, and the enforcement of environmental regulations. Facilities like power stations often use field biologists to ensure the facility's operations aren't harming nearby wildlife.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Field Biologist, you need a solid background in biology or environmental science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and experience with field research techniques. Familiarity with tools such as GPS devices, data collection software, and sometimes specialized certifications like wildlife handling permits is common. Strong observational skills, adaptability, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help field biologists excel in diverse and sometimes challenging environments. These skills are essential for collecting accurate data, collaborating with research teams, and contributing meaningful insights to ecological studies and conservation efforts.

What are some common challenges a field biologist might face during fieldwork, and how are they typically addressed?

Field Biologists often encounter unpredictable weather, remote locations, and logistical challenges such as transporting equipment and samples. Working in varying terrains can require adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Safety protocols, thorough planning, and teamwork are essential to address these obstacles, ensuring both data quality and personal well-being. Collaborating closely with local guides, other researchers, and conservation organizations is also common to facilitate access and enhance research outcomes.

What is the difference between Field Biologist vs Wildlife Technician?

AspectField Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; often requires fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, research sites, nature reserves
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork roles in ecology and conservation

While both roles involve outdoor work and environmental knowledge, a Field Biologist typically conducts research, data collection, and ecological studies, often requiring higher education and specialized skills. A Wildlife Technician may focus more on supporting field activities, habitat management, and data recording, often with less emphasis on research design. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

Is it hard to become a field biologist?

Becoming a field biologist typically requires a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in biology, ecology, or environmental science, along with practical experience through internships or research projects. The job can be physically demanding and often involves irregular hours and outdoor work, but success depends on dedication, skills in data collection, and knowledge of ecological systems.

What jobs can you get with a field biologist degree?

A degree in field biology can lead to careers such as wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, conservation scientist, or research technician. These roles often involve fieldwork, data collection, and environmental analysis, and may require knowledge of GIS tools and ecological principles.
More about Field Biologist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Field Biologist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Field Biologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Field Biologist jobs in California?

For Field Biologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Field Biologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Field Biologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Field Biologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Field Biologist job openings:

Field Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Field Biologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,372 per year, or $29 per hour.

Field Biologist

The ERM International Group Limited

Irvine, CA • On-site

$35.97 - $46.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

ERM is hiring Field Biologists to conduct surveys and monitoring for special status species for large construction projects in Riverside County, California. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. The role of field biologist requires technical skills, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. This is a full-time (40+ hours/week), limited-term role with a duration of 6 months, and the possibility of extension.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Field biologist position to conduct pre-construction special status species surveys across the client's project area.
  • Work locations are remote and require Biologist to work independently.
  • Electronic data collection.
  • Daily reporting and survey report compilation.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.
  • Compliance with ERM's rigorous safety program.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • A bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology or related discipline preferred.
  • Be able to demonstrate familiarity with nesting bird survey protocols and/or general bird identification skills
  • Minimum experience requirements for the following special status species are as follows:
    • Kangaroo Rats - Resume demonstrates ability to differentiate Kangaroo Rats from other Dipodomys species (e.g., coursework/training/experience).
  • Ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions and on challenging terrain.
  • Must have a strong attention to detail in the documentation of work.
  • Must have strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Desire to work in the field for an extended period and maintain a positive attitude.
  • Willingness and ability to travel with overnight stays possible.
  • Flexible availability: willingness to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed by the project.
  • Demonstrated independent and effective problem solving and decision-making skills.
  • Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area.
  • Fluency in English and Spanish highly preferred.

For the Field Biologist position, the anticipated hourly base pay is $35.97-$46.58 (USD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible).
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.
Note: Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures.
Who We Are:
As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.
At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.
Please submit your resume and brief cover letter.
ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Thank you for your interest in ERM!
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About ERM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations. At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

City of London, Greater London, GB

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