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Field Ecologist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Field Scientist

Carmel, IN · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Projects may include Phase I/II environmental site assessments, ecological and natural resource field surveys, tank closure assessments, storm water management, and site planning and permitting.

Lead Wetland Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$73K - $105K/yr

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with ... Work includes wetland delineation, ecological assessments, and regulatory compliance for diverse ...

Lead Wetland Scientist

Walkerton, IN · On-site

$73K - $105K/yr

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with ... Work includes wetland delineation, ecological assessments, and regulatory compliance for diverse ...

CHI CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Please note this position requires extensive seasonal travel to manage remote field sites. Key ... Liaise with environmental agencies, ecologists, civil engineers, and project subcontractors to ...

Ecosystem Restortation Technician

Mc Cordsville, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Demonstrating skills and experience with field tasks such as plant identification, invasive species control methods, ecological restoration techniques, and natural area assessments. * Lead field ...

Showing results 41-60

Field Ecologist information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$23

$42

How much do field ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for field ecologist in Indiana is $23.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.90 and $25.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a field ecologist do?

A Field Ecologist studies ecosystems and the interactions among plants, animals, and their environments, primarily through outdoor fieldwork. Their responsibilities often include collecting samples, monitoring wildlife, conducting surveys, and analyzing data to understand environmental changes and biodiversity. Field Ecologists may work for research institutions, government agencies, or conservation organizations, and their work is crucial for informing conservation efforts and environmental policy. The job often requires travel to different natural habitats and can involve working in challenging outdoor conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field ecologist?

To thrive as a Field Ecologist, you need a solid background in ecology or environmental science, strong observational and analytical skills, and usually at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with GPS devices, data collection software, GIS mapping systems, and sometimes statistical analysis tools like R is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, adaptability to challenging field conditions, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective teamwork, and reliable ecological research essential for conservation and environmental management.

What are some common challenges faced by field ecologists during data collection, and how are they typically addressed?

Field ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and equipment malfunctions while collecting data. These obstacles can impact the accuracy and completeness of their observations. To address these issues, ecologists usually plan for contingencies by carrying backup gear, using GPS for navigation, and scheduling data collection in optimal seasons. Teamwork and thorough risk assessments are also essential, ensuring safety and data integrity during fieldwork.

What is the difference between Field Ecologist vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectField EcologistWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in ecology, environmental science, or related fields; fieldwork experienceBachelor's or higher in biology, zoology, or related fields; research experience
Work EnvironmentOutdoor field sites, nature reserves, research stationsResearch labs, outdoor sites, conservation areas
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, research organizations, conservation groupsGovernment agencies, universities, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Field Ecologists and Wildlife Biologists work outdoors and require similar educational backgrounds. However, Field Ecologists focus more on conducting field surveys and environmental assessments, while Wildlife Biologists often emphasize studying animal populations and behaviors. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and interests in ecology and wildlife conservation.

Are field ecologists in high demand?

Field ecologists are in moderate demand, especially as environmental concerns increase and conservation efforts expand. Employment opportunities often depend on government agencies, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms, with skills in data collection, GIS, and ecological analysis being valuable. Job growth is steady but can vary by region and funding availability.

Do field ecologists make a lot of money?

Field ecologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as GIS or data analysis, can offer higher pay. Entry-level positions may pay less, especially in nonprofit or government sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Field Ecologist jobs in Indiana?

For Field Ecologist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Field Ecologist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,196 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Operations Manager - (Indiana & Southern Illinois)

RES is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead field execution and operational coordination across a growing portfolio ecological restoration and natural resource projects throughout Indiana and Southern Illinois.

This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations across multiple active projects, coordinating crews and subcontractors, managing equipment and fleet readiness, and ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to client expectations. The Operations Manager serves as a key operational link between Project Managers, field teams, and regional leadership.

This role will support ecological restoration and natural resource projects including solar vegetation, floodplain, wetland mitigation, stream restoration, native seeding, invasive species management, and other land stewardship initiatives as regional opportunities continue to grow.

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone with strong operational experience in vegetation management, large-scale mowing programs, herbicide application programs, fleet management, and multi-site crew leadership.

Why You'll Love This Role

  • Lead operations across large-scale solar infrastructure projects with long-term regional impact
  • Oversee multiple crews, projects, and operational priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Help shape the future of the Midwest Region through leadership continuity and operational growth
  • Work with experienced project managers, operators, and regional leadership teams
  • Play a critical role in maintaining client relationships and delivery excellence across a rapidly expanding portfolio

What You'll Be Doing

  • Lead daily operations across multiple active solar vegetation management projects
  • Coordinate field execution between Project Managers, Operations staff, subcontractors, and regional leadership
  • Oversee vegetation management activities including mowing, herbicide application, trimming, seeding, and site maintenance
  • Manage scheduling, logistics, equipment utilization, and operational readiness across concurrent projects
  • Supervise and support field crews and subcontractors to ensure safe and efficient execution
  • Oversee fleet and equipment management including maintenance coordination and repair planning for mowing and vegetation management equipment
  • Monitor project progress, staffing needs, and resource allocation to maintain schedule and client commitments
  • Support operational reporting, communication, and coordination across the project lifecycle
  • Mentor Restoration Operators and Operations staff while helping build long-term operational capacity within the region
  • Maintain compliance with environmental, safety, and operational standards

Regional Oversight & Portfolio Responsibility

This role provides operational leadership support across RES's Mule Ridge and Chesterton offices and supports projects throughout Indiana and Southern Illinois.

The Operations team remains engaged throughout the full lifecycle of projects, including periods when active field work is not occurring onsite. Responsibilities include equipment management, logistics coordination, delivery support, scheduling alignment, and maintaining operational readiness across the portfolio.

This role is also part of a planned leadership transition strategy to support operational continuity, knowledge transfer, and long-term regional growth.

We'd Like to Talk With You If You Have

  • 5+ years of experience managing field operations, vegetation management, solar O&M operations, ecological restoration, commercial landscape operations, or similar large-scale field programs
  • Experience leading multiple crews and coordinating work across concurrent projects
  • Experience managing or coordinating maintenance and repair of mowing and vegetation management equipment
  • Experience overseeing herbicide application and vegetation control programs
  • Experience supporting ecological restoration, wetland mitigation, stream restoration, erosion control, or natural areas management projects
  • Strong operational planning, scheduling, and problem-solving experience
  • Experience coordinating subcontractors, vendors, and field personnel
  • Ability to communicate effectively with field teams, project managers, clients, and leadership
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL or ability to obtain CDL preferred

What Will Make You Stand Out

  • Experience supporting utility-scale solar sites or renewable energy infrastructure
  • Experience with wetland restoration, stream restoration, mitigation projects, or native habitat establishment
  • Indiana or Illinois pesticide/herbicide applicator licensing
  • Experience managing large mowing fleets and vegetation maintenance equipment
  • Knowledge of native vegetation establishment, invasive species management, and long-term site maintenance
  • Experience with erosion and sediment control practices
  • Experience with budgeting, estimating, or operational forecasting
  • Prior leadership experience supporting geographically distributed teams