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Invertebrate Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Invertebrate information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$13

$19

How much do invertebrate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for invertebrate in Michigan is $13.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by invertebrate zoologists in field research?

Invertebrate zoologists often encounter challenges such as locating and identifying small or cryptic species in diverse habitats, working in remote or harsh environments, and managing the logistics of collecting and preserving delicate specimens. Fieldwork may also require adapting to unpredictable weather and ensuring minimal impact on sensitive ecosystems. Collaboration with local researchers and adherence to permitting regulations are essential for successful and ethical research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an invertebrate biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Invertebrate Biologist, you need a thorough understanding of zoology, taxonomy, and ecology, typically supported by a degree in biology or a related field. Experience with laboratory techniques, microscopy, and specialized software for data analysis is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written communication skills help you excel in research and collaboration. These competencies are crucial for advancing scientific knowledge, accurately documenting findings, and contributing to conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Invertebrate vs Marine Biologist?

AspectInvertebrateMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsBiology degree, specialized in invertebratesBiology or Marine Science degree, often with specialization in marine organisms
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, fieldwork in aquatic habitats, aquariumsOcean, research vessels, coastal areas, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, aquariums, environmental agenciesUniversities, research institutes, conservation organizations

Invertebrates are a subset of marine life focusing on non-vertebrate aquatic animals, while marine biologists study a broad range of marine organisms, including vertebrates and invertebrates. The main difference lies in their scope: invertebrates are a specific group, whereas marine biologists have a wider focus on oceanic life.

What is an invertebrate?

Invertebrates are animals that do not have a backbone or vertebral column. They make up the vast majority of animal species on Earth, including insects, spiders, mollusks, crustaceans, worms, and many others. Invertebrates can be found in nearly every environment, from deep oceans to forests and deserts. They play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and serving as food for other animals.
What are popular job titles related to Invertebrate jobs in Michigan? For Invertebrate jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Invertebrate job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $27,271 per year, or $13.1 per hour.

Supervisory Wildlife Biologist (State Director)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Okemos, MI • On-site

$117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 290 rated public sector bodies


Job description

If selected, you will be responsible for planning, developing, organizing, and administering complex operational and technical assistance programs designed to efficiently, effectively, and safely reduce wildlife damage that adversely impacts agricultural interests, human health and safety, property, and natural resources. This position is multi-jurisdictional and primarily spans several districts within a State/Territory or a combination of states, which includes supervising a large staff.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
TIME-IN-GRADE: Current federal employees applying for a promotion opportunity must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirement of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
  1. Degree: biological science that included:
    • At least 9 semester hours in such wildlife subjects as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, wildlife management, or research courses in the field of wildlife biology; and
    • At least 12 semester hours in zoology in such subjects as general zoology, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, cellular biology, parasitology, entomology, or research courses in such subjects (Excess courses in wildlife biology may be used to meet the zoology requirements where appropriate.); and
    • At least 9 semester hours in botany or the related plant sciences.
OR
Combination of education and experience: equivalent to a major in biological science (i.e., at least 30 semester hours), with at least 9 semester hours in wildlife subjects, 12 semester hours in zoology, and 9 semester hours in botany or related plant science, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
FOR THE GS-13 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-12 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Evaluating and developing staff members, addressing performance problems, managing workforce staffing needs for overtime and temporary duty (TDY) assignments.
  • Assisting with program policy development, including processes and procedures that improve operations, resulting in greater efficiency and effective application of regulations for wildlife damage management operations.
  • Managing wildlife damage management program administration, involving large-scale resources, a high degree of logistical planning, and multiple funding sources, monitoring contracts.
  • Gaining cooperation from, exchanging information, applying regulations, and resolving problematic issues with industry representatives relative to wildlife damage management requirements.

Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
  • This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified.
  • This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER

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