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Field Biologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lead Biologist

Manassas, VA · 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 ...

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 ...

Associate Biologist

Manassas, VA · 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 ...

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 ...

You will lead biological teams in the field in support of the preparation of through accurate data collection and collaboration with project managers. You will work with technical experts ...

Cell Biologist - In Vitro Models and Assay Development Charlottesville, VA About Luna Labs Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to ...

$74K/yr

A. Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR B. Combination of education and experience: Courses ...

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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 Jul 30, 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 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 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.

How much does a field biologist make?

The average salary for a field biologist ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $35,000, while experienced biologists with specialized skills can earn over $80,000. Field biologists often work outdoors and may require knowledge of data collection tools and environmental regulations.

What does a field biologist do?

A field biologist studies plants, animals, and ecosystems in their natural environments. They collect data through observations, sampling, and experiments, often using tools like GPS devices and microscopes. The role typically involves outdoor work in various weather conditions and may require knowledge of species identification and data recording techniques.

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.

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 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 are the jobs in the field of biology?

Jobs in the field of biology include roles such as research scientist, wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, laboratory technician, and conservation officer. These positions often require knowledge of biological sciences, fieldwork skills, and sometimes specialized certifications or equipment. Biologists work in diverse environments including labs, outdoor settings, and research facilities.

What are some jobs in the field of biology?

Jobs in the field of biology include roles such as field biologist, wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, ecological researcher, and environmental consultant. These positions often involve fieldwork, data collection, and analysis, requiring knowledge of biological sciences and sometimes specialized equipment or certifications.
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 job categories do people searching Field Biologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Field Biologist jobs in Virginia 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 23% Internship, 27% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 35% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,649 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 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.