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Pilot Biologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

General knowledge of food sciences, biology, microbiology and basic chemistry * Good understanding ... Pilot Plant working conditions exist with exposures to chemicals while performing plant trials ...

General knowledge of food sciences, biology, microbiology and basic chemistry * Good understanding ... Pilot Plant working conditions exist with exposures to chemicals while performing plant trials ...

Support pilot studies, technology evaluations, automation initiatives, and continuous improvement ... Bachelor's degree in Reproductive Biology, Animal Science, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology ...

Pilot Biologist information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$84K

$129.6K

How much do pilot biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot biologist in Iowa is $83,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot biologist?

Pilot biologists are professionals who combine aviation skills with biological expertise to conduct aerial surveys, wildlife monitoring, and environmental research. They often fly aircraft to observe, track, and collect data on animal populations, habitats, or ecological changes. Their work supports conservation efforts, wildlife management, and scientific studies, often in collaboration with government agencies or research organizations. Pilot biologists must be licensed pilots and have a background in biology or a related field to effectively perform their duties.

How do pilot biologists typically balance flying responsibilities with biological data collection and analysis?

Pilot Biologists often split their time between piloting aircraft for aerial surveys and conducting biological research, such as wildlife monitoring or habitat assessments. This dual responsibility requires strong time-management skills and the ability to transition between field operations and scientific work. Collaborating closely with other biologists, technicians, and sometimes government agencies is common to ensure accurate data collection and safety during flights. The role can be demanding, especially during peak fieldwork seasons, but offers unique opportunities for both scientific contribution and aviation experience.

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

To thrive as a Pilot Biologist, you need a strong background in biology or wildlife sciences, a commercial pilot’s license, and experience with field research techniques. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, data collection tools, and specialized aircraft instrumentation is commonly required. Excellent observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for safely conducting aerial surveys, accurately gathering ecological data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams for environmental research.

What is the difference between Pilot Biologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectPilot BiologistMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsBiology degree, pilot license, specialized trainingBiology degree, research experience, often a marine science certification
Work EnvironmentAircraft, remote field sites, marine environmentsLaboratories, research vessels, coastal and open ocean
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research organizations, governmentUniversities, research institutes, conservation groups

While both Pilot Biologists and Marine Biologists work in marine environments, Pilot Biologists combine biological expertise with piloting skills to conduct surveys and research from aircraft or boats. Marine Biologists focus primarily on studying marine organisms and ecosystems. The roles overlap in fieldwork and environmental monitoring, but Pilot Biologists uniquely operate aircraft or vessels to access remote or large areas efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Biologist jobs in Iowa?

For Pilot Biologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Biologist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Biologist jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Pilot Biologist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,974 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Pilot Plant Supervisor

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

The Pilot Plant Supervisor oversees the APC pilot plant. In this role, he/she will be responsible for the APC pilot plant experimental execution, equipment maintenance, and training of personnel to safely operate the pilot plant.
Trials organization:
  • Plan the pilot plant trials program according to project priority.
  • Ensure the supply of required equipment, raw materials and packaging to meet business needs.
  • Prepare Pilot plant trial test plans.
  • Make sure that the different trials are done according to the test plans and/or modify test plans as required.
  • Ensure samples are obtained properly, identified and analyzed according to the test plan.
  • Manage the different trials and save all the important data and parameters from the different projects conducted in the Pilot Plant.
  • Properly save and store the pilot plant raw data.
  • Assure that a final report is provided for each trial conducted in the Pilot Plant.

APC Pilot Plant:
  • Maintain preventative maintenance schedule and ensure items are completed on time.
  • Supervise cleaning and proper organization of all APC common areas
  • Ensure all APC equipment is maintained in good working order.
  • Continuous improvement of SOP's related to safety and efficiency.
  • Ensure that common reagents and consumables are generally available in the Pilot Plant.

Team Management - Training and Development:
  • Responsible for training LAB associates, to safely operate the pilot equipment.
  • Provide Coaching to individual team members to foster an excellent safety culture.
  • To write, up dated and maintain the working procedures for the different equipment as required
  • Supervise direct reports.

Technology Development:
  • Management of assigned projects.
  • Equipment commissioning.
  • Provide technical opinion to the Management for review and recommend changes in the productive process and recommend effective solutions for different problems that could affect the technical departments.

Perform various tasks as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Understand principles and application of reactors, continuous centrifuges, membrane systems and spray dryers
  • General knowledge of food sciences, biology, microbiology and basic chemistry
  • Good understanding of food/Feed processing principles.
  • Interpretation and communication of product analytical data.
  • Strong trouble shooting skills.
  • Proven proactive approach.
  • Comfortable making autonomous decisions.
  • Works well in a team environment.
  • Knowledge of basic statistics.
  • Knowledge of basic analytical techniques commonly used in quality control labs for food and animal feed (protein, ash, moisture, etc.)
  • Able to work flexible hours and willing to travel up to 25% of the time.
  • Project Management.
  • Knowledge of Windows and Microsoft office.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Bachelor's of Science in Biology, chemistry, food science, engineering, related field or equivalent relevant experience.
Experience:
4-5 years experience in an industrial processing environment (food or feed preferred).
BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Approximate: 8-Hour Day (may be longer during peak season)
Key:
Occasional = 0% - 33%
Frequent = 34% - 66%
Continuous = 67% - 100%
N/A = Not Applicable
Standing - Frequent
Sitting - Occasional
Walking - Frequent
Bending/Kneeling/Crouching/Stooping - Frequent
Reaching above shoulder - Occasional
Climbing (stairs, ladders, etc.) - Occasional
Working on Heights:
Unprotected Heights - N/A
Protected Heights - Occasional
Lifting Weights from 0 to 50 Pounds - Occasional
Push/Pull/Maneuver Equipment/Products/Materials - Frequent
Weighing from 0 to 50 Pounds
Being Around and/or Operating Laboratory and Pilot Plant Equipment - Frequent
Operating a Vehicle (as a part of your job) - Occasional
Read/Monitor Gauges on Various Equipment - Frequent
Hand Movements:
Recording Data - Frequent
Operating Lab Equipment - Frequent
Operating Computer - Occasional
Simple Grasping (right and left) - Frequent
Firm Grasping (right and left) - Frequent
Fine Manipulating (right and left) - Frequent
Vision: Good Vision, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to
Access Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - YES
Color Definition Required: - YES
Hearing: Good Hearing, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to
Communicate/Understand Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - YES
Mobility: Ability to be mobile throughout required work areas.
Office - Frequent
Multiple Locations - Occasional
Plant - Frequent
BASIC MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
This job requires the mental capabilities to apply scientific knowledge/principles to apply and communicate processes/procedures in a Pilot Plant setting. Furthermore, necessary in accomplishing job duties are the abilities to implement analytical methods, provide creative solutions to problems as situations arise.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND EXPOSURES:
Pilot Plant working conditions exist with exposures to chemicals while performing plant trials, laboratory procedures and analysis. May include exposure to acidic and alkaline substances. Additional exposures include biohazards, odor, noise, moving equipment and occasional use of poisonous chemicals.
At times the employee may be required to travel on company business with exposures to inclement weather. (10% travel estimated)
Participates in E-Verify
#SAPC