1

Internship Behavioral Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turlock, CA The Restoration Biologist works with the Senior Biologists and Ecologists to identify ... Internship 2020 580 Vallombrosa Ave Chico CA 95926

Biologist

Turlock, CA ยท On-site

Turlock, CA The Restoration Biologist works with the Senior Biologists and Ecologists to identify ... Demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors, and managers at all times * Teamwork ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Behavioral Ecology information

See salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do internship behavioral ecology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship behavioral ecology in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an internship behavioral ecology?

Internship behavioral ecology positions are temporary roles designed for students or early-career individuals to gain hands-on experience studying animal behavior in relation to their environment. These internships often involve fieldwork, data collection, laboratory analysis, and assisting with research projects under the supervision of experienced ecologists. They provide valuable exposure to scientific methods, research ethics, and the practical challenges of ecological studies. Interns may work with wildlife, observe behavioral patterns, and contribute to ongoing research aimed at understanding how animals adapt to their surroundings. Such internships are typically offered by universities, research institutions, or conservation organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship behavioral ecology?

To thrive as an intern in Behavioral Ecology, you need a background in biology or environmental science, basic research skills, and a keen interest in animal behavior. Familiarity with statistical software (such as R), data collection tools, and sometimes GIS systems is commonly required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate findings effectively are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate data gathering, insightful analysis, and effective collaboration in research environments.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a behavioral ecology internship?

As a Behavioral Ecology intern, you can expect a mix of fieldwork and laboratory-based tasks, such as observing animal behavior in natural habitats, collecting ecological data, and assisting with experiments or data analysis. You'll likely work closely with research teams, gaining exposure to research design, hypothesis testing, and scientific communication. These experiences provide valuable skills in data collection, statistical analysis, and teamwork, all of which are essential for advancing in ecological research careers.

What is the difference between Internship Behavioral Ecology vs Research Assistant in Ecology?

AspectInternship Behavioral EcologyResearch Assistant in Ecology
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or early graduate level, relevant courseworkSimilar, often undergraduate or graduate students
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, lab, academic or research institutionsField sites, labs, universities, research centers
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, conservation organizationsEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, NGOs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Internship Behavioral Ecology typically involves gaining hands-on experience in studying animal behavior within ecological contexts, often as a short-term position for students. Research Assistant in Ecology may encompass broader ecological research tasks, including data collection and analysis across various ecological disciplines. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are used in academic and research settings, but internships focus more on training and skill development, while research assistant roles may involve more independent work.

What cities are hiring for Internship Behavioral Ecology jobs?

Cities with the most Internship Behavioral Ecology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral Ecology jobs?

The most popular types of Behavioral Ecology jobs are:

What states have the most Internship Behavioral Ecology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Internship Behavioral Ecology jobs include:

Internship: Right Whale Ecology Program (RWEP) Photo-ID

Center for Coastal Studies

Provincetown, MA โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Internship

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Hiring Organization: Center for Coastal Studies
Job Title: Right Whale Ecology Program (RWEP) Photo-ID Intern
Reports to: RWEP Photo and Database Manager
Job Classification: Seasonal Intern
Pay: $15/hour; housing provided
Hours: An average of 40 hours/week; including weekends and holidays as fieldwork requires
Term: January 04, 2027 through May 28, 2027
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Application Deadline: September 4, 2026
Job Summary: The RWEP conducts long-term monitoring of North Atlantic right whale abundance, distribution, behavior, and prey in Cape Cod Bay and adjacent Massachusetts waters. The photo-ID intern will participate in research cruises as a vessel observer and the primary vessel photographer, working alongside the habitat intern and assisting the RWEP marine ecologist in research cruise objectives. Office work requires processing all vessel photos and sightings data collected in the field. The intern may also assist with some of the habitat field and office tasks, which include collecting and processing zooplankton samples.
Essential Duties:
  • Photographing critically endangered North Atlantic right whales
  • Collecting behavioral, environmental, and sightings data (other species, vessels, marine debris, and fishing gear)
  • Photo analysis: downloading images, matching individuals to known animals using online and in-house catalogs, inputting sightings information
  • Database entry and maintenance
  • Processing sightings data from other platforms
  • Maintaining vessel field equipment

Minimum Requirements:
  • An undergraduate degree, completed or in progress, preferably in biological/environmental sciences
  • Previous marine mammal survey experience, including background in species identification and photo-identification of large cetaceans
  • Experience with digital SLR cameras, lenses, and filters
  • Basic computer literacy (including Windows operating system) and working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
  • Experience working on boats and ability to withstand harsh elements for up to 10 hours
  • Not prone to serious seasickness
  • Ability to live and work well in a small team
  • Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab-based research methods
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work well independently and under pressure

Preferred Requirements:
  • Experience using iMatch image database software
  • Experience with database entry and management
  • Experience using GPS equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to estimate object distance ranges from a vessel
  • A valid US driver's license

The successful applicant will be required to work a minimum of four to five full days per week and will need to be flexible for research cruises due to weather constraints. The intern will often collect data independently in the field; thus responsible, detail-oriented applicants are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be available for the full field season and must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed. International applicants must secure their own visas or other required documentation.
The RWEP has a long history of conservation and research work with the North Atlantic right whale. Cape Cod Bay has been a major critical habitat for around 50% of the estimated population in recent years. This internship will afford the successful applicant an invaluable opportunity to work within a well-established institution, with highly-qualified scientists, and to gain experience in photo-identification, behavioral observation and analysis, and data processing of one of the world's most endangered cetaceans. Details of our work can be found on our website: http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/
How to Apply:
The application package should include the following as a single PDF:
  • Cover letter describing your qualifications for this internship, your specific interests in marine mammal science, and how the experience would assist you in reaching career goals
  • CV/resume
  • Names and contact information of two professional references
  • College transcripts (unofficial are sufficient)