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Field Biologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Advanced degree in Molecular Biology or related field. The expected salary range for this position is $95,000 to $110,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience and ...

Lead Biologist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Advanced degree in Molecular Biology or related field. Benefits The expected salary range for this position is $95,000 to $110,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience ...

Associate Biologist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Seeking Associate Biologist, ideally with a background in Biology or related field to support laboratory quality testing in a regulated environment. Join ATCC and be part of a team that supports the ...

Biologist

Manassas, VA

$65K - $75K/yr

A global nonprofit that provides trusted biological materials for science and health, ATCC is hiring a Biologist. This onsite position in Manassas, VA supports laboratory activities within ATCC ...

New

Biologist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

A global nonprofit that provides trusted biological materials for science and health, ATCC is hiring a Biologist. This onsite position in Manassas, VA supports laboratory activities within ATCC ...

New

Associate Biologist

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Seeking Associate Biologist, ideally with a background in Biology or related field to support laboratory quality testing in a regulated environment. Join ATCC and be part of a team that supports the ...

Prepare reports documenting field investigations and analytical results; * Perform stormwater ... Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife, botany, ecology, environmental science or a closely related ...

Prepare reports documenting field investigations and analytical results; * Perform stormwater ... Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife, botany, ecology, environmental science or a closely related ...

Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, or MSc) in computational biology, medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics, or a closely related field. * Demonstrated expertise in medicinal chemistry, including experience ...

Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, or MSc) in computational biology, medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics, or a closely related field. * Demonstrated expertise in medicinal chemistry, including experience ...

Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, or MSc) in computational biology, medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics, or a closely related field. * Demonstrated expertise in medicinal chemistry, including experience ...

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Field Biologist information

See Virginia salary details

$22.3K

$60.6K

$104.6K

How much do field biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for field biologist in Virginia is $60,649.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $68,900.00 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.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Field Biologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Field Biologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Field Biologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,649 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

DTRA Biologist

Systems Planning and Analysis

Fort Belvoir, VA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Joint, Office of the Secretary of War, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.
JOID assists the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in developing leading edge technologies to counter WMD in support of Combatant Commands (CCMDs) and transitioning these technologies to military services CCMDs. SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) WMD, Counter Improvised Threat and Countering Threat Network technologies to support understanding, detection, identification, characterization, denial, control, disabling, defeating, disposing, safeguarding the force, managing consequences, and test and evaluation in support of military and civilian operations.
We have an immediate need for a Diagnostics Biologist to provide onsite support at DTRA on Ft Belvoir in Lorton, VA.
Responsibilities
The candidate will provide Assistance and Advisory Support (A&AS) to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Chemical and Biological (CB) Defense Department Medical S&T Division - Diagnostics Branch (RD CBMD). The candidate will provide scientific and project management support to maximize client support for chemical and biological threat agent diagnostic technology development. This position serves as technical/scientific support on research projects conducted by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency Research and Development Chemical Biological Directorate with emphasis on biological and chemical threat diagnostics. Prepare technical documentation across the research projects life cycle: topic drafting/solicitation, proposal reviews, technical support (e.g. review reports, provide technical feedback and recommendations), and project management. Review proposals, technical reports, experimental or theoretical techniques, scientific studies, and statements of work to ensure technical validity and evaluate current and emerging biological medical defense technologies. Assist leadership with decision making analysis. Understand capability gaps and assist in setting program, project, and product-level strategy and priorities, ensuring portfolios are responsive and mapped to program goals. Prepare technical documentation and presentations to explain the approach, associated assumptions, and conclusions of scientific proposals and efforts.
This position is located at DTRA Headquarters on Fort Belvoir, VA, and requires residing in the National Capital Region.
Travel: (10-30%) may be required.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Master's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in related scientific field, including research.
  • Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
  • Active Secret clearance with TS/SCI eligibility.
  • Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.

Desired:
  • PhD in Biology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, or related field.
  • Experience in chemical and biological threat diagnostics as part of the DoW research and development enterprise.
  • Experience with DoW Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBDP) and DoW acquisition policies.
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $120,000.00/Yr. - USD $140,000.00/Yr.