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Forest Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife or Fisheries Management, Agricultural Science, or comparable education/experience * A professional ...

Restoration Ecologist

Raleigh, NC ยท Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

... and the forest communities of Southeast Atlantic ecosystems. They will also bring project ... Strong field ecology skills are essential, including native plant identification, wetland ...

Restoration Ecologist

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... and the forest communities of Southeast Atlantic ecosystems. They will also bring project ... Strong field ecology skills are essential, including native plant identification, wetland ...

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Forest Ecologist information

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$26

$39

$50

How much do forest ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ecologist in the United States is $39.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.13 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forest ecologist do?

As a forest ecologist, your responsibilities include finding forests that can be protected and restored by the government, park systems, or universities. You determine which plants and trees should be thinned or harvested and if an area could use more of a type of plant to improve natural resources for wildlife or other purposes like limiting flooding damage. For public recreation forests, you choose the location for trails that minimize environmental impact and oversee maintenance of these trails. Other duties include planning for botanical diseases, limiting invasive species, and incorporating fire management techniques. As a scientist working closely with other scientists and conservationists, you are responsible for forest conservation for future generations, using the most natural and economically-sound methods possible. You communicate your scientific findings and plans of action to the public and media through presentations, meetings, tours, and more.

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

To thrive as a Forest Ecologist, you need a strong background in ecology, biology, environmental science, and typically a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field data collection techniques is crucial. Excellent observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills enable accurate ecosystem assessments, informed conservation decisions, and effective communication of findings to support forest management and preservation.

What is the difference between Forest Ecologist vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectForest EcologistWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Forestry, or Environmental ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Ecology, or Wildlife Management
Work EnvironmentForests, research sites, environmental agenciesWildlife habitats, research labs, conservation areas
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, forestry companies, research institutionsWildlife agencies, conservation organizations, research institutions

Forest Ecologists focus on studying forest ecosystems, tree populations, and forest health, often working in forested environments. Wildlife Biologists study animal populations and their habitats, frequently working in diverse ecosystems. While both roles involve ecological research and conservation, Forest Ecologists specialize in forest environments, whereas Wildlife Biologists focus on animal species and their habitats.

What are some common challenges faced by forest ecologists in the field?

Forest ecologists often encounter challenges such as navigating remote or difficult terrain, dealing with unpredictable weather, and collecting data in areas with limited access. Additionally, they must balance rigorous fieldwork with data analysis and reporting, sometimes under tight project deadlines. Collaboration is key, as forest ecologists frequently work alongside other scientists, land managers, and local communities to ensure research findings are effectively implemented in conservation and management practices.

What is a forest ecologist?

Forest ecologists are scientists who study the relationships between forest organisms and their environment. They examine how factors like climate, soil, and human activity affect forest ecosystems, plant and animal populations, and overall forest health. Their work often involves field research, data analysis, and developing management strategies to conserve and restore forests. Forest ecologists play a critical role in understanding and mitigating the impacts of deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss.
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Infographic showing various Forest Ecologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,310 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Field Ecologist

Naturion

Charleston, SC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Field Ecologist
Job Description
About Us
Naturion is focused on the union of environmental sustainability and responsible human progress. Our mission is to empower people, restore natural resources, and enhance the world we live in. We value relationships and prioritize people in all that we do. With locations across the US, we're a growing company making waves in the industry.
About the Job
Naturion has an immediate opening for a Field Ecologist to join our team in our Georgia & South Carolina region. We have some exciting projects in the pipeline, with more on the horizon and this position is essential in supporting the company's growth and operational stability. The Field Ecologist is essential to ensuring ecological uplift and mitigation credit releases in our Georgia & South Carolina region .
What You Will Do & Expected Outcomes
The Field Ecologist plays a pivotal role in managing our conservation projects in the southeast region. Your primary responsibilities will be data collection, ecological monitoring, and reporting, and documentation for proposed and existing mitigation bank projects. You'll also lead agency meetings, mange sub-contractors, and support project management team members. The successful Field Ecologist will contribute in the following significant ways:
  • Perform field data collection and analysis (i.e., vegetation, soil, groundwater, geomorphic survey, water quality, benthic macroinvertebrates) using the latest regulatory guidance and functional assessment methodologies.
  • Calculate mitigation credit using approved methodologies within governing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Districts.
  • Execute and assist with stream and wetland delineations.
  • Assist in the preparation of regulatory documents, including 404/401 permits, mitigation banking documents, monitoring reports, and endangered species reports.
  • Provide construction oversight assistance.
  • Utilize ArcGIS mapping to support permit applications and document production.
Ideal Candidates
  • BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife or Fisheries Management, Agricultural Science, or comparable education/experience
  • A professional background in the environmental consulting field (wetland delineation, 404 permitting, mitigation bank prospectus and mitigation banking instrument development, and aquatic resourcing functional assessment methods is a bonus.
  • Expertise in Project Management
  • Expertise in comprehensive native and invasive species vegetation surveys
  • Experience in stream and wetland delineation.
  • Should be a strong communicator and multi-tasker who can work on several projects simultaneously.
  • Has strong technical writing skills.
  • Knowledge or experience with ESRI ArcGIS is preferred.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Can travel with occasional overnight stays.
  • Ability to operate company vehicles, including trailer towing.
  • Ability to hike rough terrain with 25 lbs. of equipment in inclement weather.
  • Environmental stewardship and building meaningful relationships are a must.
Perks to Look Forward To:
  • Collaborate with a diverse team of passionate, intelligent, and fun colleagues who share our values.
  • Enjoy PTO that we genuinely encourage you to take.
  • Stay healthy with comprehensive Health and Dental benefits.
  • Access voluntary short-term disability and voluntary life insurance programs.
  • Benefit from employer-sponsored Vision and Life insurance.
  • Plan for the future with our SIMPLE IRA retirement plan and 3% company match.
  • Elevate your performance with raises and bonuses tied to your achievements.
  • Compensation commensurate with experience.
Ready to bring your expertise to the forefront of ecological restoration? Join us at Naturion and be a part of something extraordinary. Apply today and help us shape a greener future!
https://naturion.com/who-we-are/#about-us