1

Herpetologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Herpetologist information

See salary details

$8

$26

$61

How much do herpetologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for herpetologist in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Herpetologist vs Zoologist?

HerpetologistZoologist
Specializes in reptiles and amphibiansStudies a broad range of animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects
Requires biology or wildlife biology degrees, often with specialization in herpetologyRequires biology or zoology degrees, with broader focus
Work environment includes research labs, fieldwork in natural habitats, conservation projectsWorks in research labs, zoos, wildlife reserves, and academic settings
Employer types include research institutions, conservation organizations, universitiesEmployers include zoos, research institutions, government agencies, universities

While both herpetologists and zoologists study animals, herpetologists focus specifically on reptiles and amphibians, often requiring specialized knowledge and certifications. Zoologists have a broader scope, studying various animal groups. Both roles involve research, fieldwork, and conservation efforts, but their specific focus areas and work environments differ.

What are herpetologists?

Herpetologists are scientists who study reptiles and amphibians, including animals such as snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and salamanders. Their work involves researching the behavior, genetics, ecology, physiology, and conservation of these species. Herpetologists may work in the field, in laboratories, or at zoos and museums, often conducting studies that help protect endangered species and understand environmental changes. Their research contributes to broader knowledge in biology, medicine, and wildlife management.

What are some common challenges herpetologists face when conducting field research?

Herpetologists often work in remote or challenging outdoor environments, which can involve exposure to extreme weather, difficult terrain, and potentially hazardous wildlife. Locating and observing reptiles and amphibians can be time-consuming, as many species are elusive or nocturnal. Additionally, herpetologists must carefully follow protocols to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats and ensure the safety and ethical treatment of the animals they study. Collaboration with local communities, landowners, and conservation organizations is also key to accessing study sites and gathering data effectively.

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

To thrive as a Herpetologist, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, and zoology, typically supported by a degree in biological sciences or a related field. Familiarity with field research techniques, GIS software, and data analysis tools, along with relevant certifications in wildlife handling or research ethics, is common. Excellent observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate research findings clearly are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure effective research, safe animal handling, and meaningful contributions to conservation efforts and scientific knowledge.
More about Herpetologist jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Herpetologist jobs? The top employers for Herpetologist jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Herpetologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Herpetologist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Herpetologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Protected Species Observer (Field Based)

Protected Species Observer (Field Based)

The ERM International Group Limited

Hartford, CT • On-site

$96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

ERM is hiring a Protected Species Specialist to support our client in New Haven, Connecticut. In this critical role, you will be responsible for observing, recording, and reporting wildlife during construction. This is a full-time (40+ hours/week), limited-term role for a duration of 1 year, extendable.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Conduct initial project sweeps, including inspection of isolation barriers, proximate species habitat boundaries, and record the status of species of concern.
  • Provide daily sweeps, oversight, and consulting services related to protected species within the area, including adhering to the Project Species Protection Plan and completing daily monitoring and observation reports
  • Document protected species interactions and assist with data collection.
  • Ensure that all staff are adhering to safe practices.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor of Science in a related field preferred.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience as a herpetologist, biologist, or wildlife specialist.
  • Has or will obtain a Connecticut Scientific Collectors Permit to work with State-listed species.
  • Strong knowledge of Endangered Species Act (ESA).
  • Good observational skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong communication and reporting skills.
  • Basic computer proficiency for data entry and report generation.
  • Must work safely and follow instructions as per Client and ERM policies.
  • Ability to regularly lift 25 lbs. and occasionally lift 50 lbs.
  • Valid driver's license.

Pay Transparency:
For the Protected Species Specialist position, we anticipate the annual base pay of $ 74,000- $96,901, $/35.57hr - $46.58/hr USD, limited-term, non-exempt. An employee's pay position within this range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, sales or revenue-based metrics, and business or organizational needs. We also may have instances where employee's fall outside of the range based on the factors noted above. This job may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed term/Flexforce employees are NOT bonus eligible).
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life & disability insurance to benefits eligible* employees.
*Benefits Eligibility is limited to Regular employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week. Fixed-Term employees (including Flexforce) who are regularly scheduled to work 20 hours a week or more are eligible for a limited benefits package. Casual employees are NOT benefits eligible. See your recruiter for more details.
You can apply for this role through https://www.erm.com/careers/apply/ or through the internal careers portal if you are a current employee.
Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, determinable, and payable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law.
Who We Are:
As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.
At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.
Please submit your resume and brief cover letter. Based on review of these responses, shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Thank you for your interest in ERM!

ERM logo

About ERM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations. At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

City of London, Greater London, GB

Social media