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Field Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Restoration Ecologist

Raleigh, NC ยท Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Strong field ecology skills are essential, including native plant identification, wetland identification and delineation, tree surveys, coastal and terrestrial habitat assessments, RTE surveys, and ...

ECOLOGIST

North Little Rock, AR ยท On-site

$58K - $86K/yr

Primary Responsibilities Conduct field surveys to collect ecological data on plant and animal populations, habitat conditions, and environmental variables.Analyze ecological data, prepare reports ...

Ecologist

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$81K - $97K/yr

Fieldwork completing ecology special studies including wetland delineation, habitat assessments, and protected species surveys. Qualifications & Experience: Required Qualifications * Bachelor ...

The successful candidate will conduct desktop reviews and support field data collection for ... As a junior-level Biologist/Ecologist/Environmental Scientist, you will apply your technical ...

Ecologist

Atlanta, GA ยท Hybrid

$81K - $97K/yr

Fieldwork completing ecology special studies including wetland delineation, habitat assessments, and protected species surveys. Qualifications & Experience: Required Qualifications * Bachelor ...

The successful candidate will conduct desktop reviews and support field data collection for ... As a junior-level Biologist/Ecologist/Environmental Scientist, you will apply your technical ...

Ecologist

Atlanta, GA ยท Hybrid

Performance of ecological studies, including conducting field surveys, producing reports, and ... Conduct field surveys and habitat assessments for protected species * Participate in multi ...

Ecologist

Atlanta, GA ยท Hybrid

Performance of ecological studies, including conducting field surveys, producing reports, and ... Conduct field surveys and habitat assessments for protected species * Participate in multi ...

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Field Ecologist information

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$10

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How much do field ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for field ecologist in the United States is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $27.16 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 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.

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

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.
More about Field Ecologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Field Ecologist jobs? Cities with the most Field Ecologist job openings:
What states have the most Field Ecologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Field Ecologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Field Ecologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,413 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Field Ecologist or Biologist - Part-time (hourly)

Field Ecologist or Biologist - Part-time (hourly)

ICF

Atlanta, GA โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Ready to make a difference?
We are the Environment & Planning Division. We are passionate about doing what's right for our clients, our people, the communities where we live and work, and the environment. We are planners, scientists, program managers, communicators, economists, technologists, and strategists. We are collaborative, curious, and committed to excellence-these are qualities we value that make us who we are and inspire us to grow.

ICF is hiring a seasonal On-Call Field Ecologist or Biologist to join our Environmental Team. You will be able to develop a wide range of experience in the completion of various types of ecological and biological fieldwork projects across the southeastern U.S. You will collaborate with an accomplished team of conservation planners, ecologists, and regulatory specialists. You will be exposed to terrestrial and aquatic biological assessments, and aquatic resource delineation (streams and wetlands) projects. You will support the growth and development of our team with your trusted and reliable technical capabilities. You will work with project managers, technical experts, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies to successfully deliver projects on time with high quality standards.

Field work is often performed on foot in rugged terrain and the ability to traverse long distances is required. The field work will often require long hours in potentially adverse weather conditions. Field work will be conducted in remote areas with the potential for over-night/extended travel. You may be required to work independently in the field, so dedication, resourcefulness, and accountability are essential skills for the position. While some field work will be conducted independently, all work will be carried out as part of larger team effort and excellent communication skills and an ability to cooperate in a team are equally important qualities.

About On-Call Employment with ICF:
Given the seasonal or project-specific nature of our environmental work, ICF often hires environmental professionals as "On-Call" employees. On-Call employees are scheduled for work hours as they become available (we usually schedule work hours a few weeks ahead of time), and each on-call employee is free to accept or refuse the hours assigned to them in a given week. On-Call employees may work concurrent projects outside of their ICF assignment (as long as their outside work does not create a conflict of interest with the work they do for ICF). Work is expected to occur in the state of Georgia.
What you will be doing:

  • Assist with endangered species habitat assessments, aquatic resource delineations, and other support fieldwork activities.

  • Be a positive, fun, curious, organized, innovative, committed, self-motivated and supportive addition to our team.

  • Be available and enthusiastic to travel as needed for project locations throughout Georgia. Travel requirements are variable, however ICF strives to work with all staff to develop mutually agreed upon fieldwork schedules.


What we need you to have (minimum qualifications):

  • BS in Biology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Science or related discipline OR High School Diploma with 1+ years of professional experience within wildlife, horticulture, ecology, forestry or related experience

  • Must have valid driver's license and successfully pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check

  • Must be able to work independently in the field for extended periods of time, often times with limited mobile phone reception

  • Must be able to traverse uneven, irregular, slippery, and steep terrain (up to 5 miles per day) with or without accommodation


What we would like you to have (preferred qualifications):

Prior experience with ecological fieldwork in the Piedmont, Southeastern Plains, and Coastal Plain ecoregions of Georgia.

Documented experience demonstrating the ability to operate in the field under potentially strenuous conditions with minimal supervision.

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Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$50,353.00 - $94,160.00Nationwide Remote Office (US99)