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Pilot Biologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Pilot Biologist information

See Oregon salary details

$39.1K

$94.5K

$145.9K

How much do pilot biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot biologist in Oregon is $94,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $127,900.00 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Pilot Biologist jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Pilot Biologist job openings:

Pilot Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Biologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,525 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Electronic Monitoring (EM) Fisheries Specialist

Think Tank, Inc.

Newport, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

*Position is Subject to Contract Award*Work may be performed remotely or at NOAA facilities in Seattle, Washington or Newport, Oregon. POSITION DESCRIPTION:The Electronic Monitoring (EM) Fisheries Specialist provides technical support to NOAA Fisheries' Fisheries Observation Science (FOS) Program, supporting both the Electronic Monitoring (EM) regulatory program and the Machine Learning Assisted Scientific Electronic Monitoring (ML EM) pilot program. The position focuses on reviewing commercial fishing video footage, validating fisheries data, supporting quality assurance activities, and collaborating with NOAA staff and third-party vendors to improve fisheries monitoring technologies.This role is ideal for candidates with fisheries science experience who possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to accurately identify Pacific fish species using video imagery.RESPONSIBILITIES:Perform secondary review of Electronic Monitoring (EM) video to verify fishing activity, species identification, and catch estimates submitted by third-party reviewers.Conduct quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews and provide feedback regarding reviewer performance.Support NOAA's Machine Learning Assisted Electronic Monitoring (ML EM) pilot program.Develop Vessel Monitoring Plans (VMPs) for vessels participating in the ML EM pilot.Conduct primary and/or secondary review of EM video footage to:Annotate fishing eventsIdentify fish speciesEstimate fish lengths and weightsDocument retained and discarded catchMaintain accurate video annotations and documentation.Prepare feedback reports and provide status updates to NOAA Fisheries staff.Coordinate and communicate with Electronic Monitoring service providers and ML EM pilot contractors.Assist NOAA staff in advancing fisheries monitoring technologies and improving data quality.REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor's degree in Fisheries Science, Marine Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field; orTwo (2) years of equivalent professional fisheries experience.Ability to successfully complete and pass a NOAA background investigation (processing may take approximately 60–90 days).Knowledge of fisheries monitoring and commercial fishing operations.Strong attention to detail and data accuracy.Ability to accurately identify marine species from video imagery.Experience working independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.Excellent organizational and time management skills.Proficiency with computer-based data management and video review applications.Ability to communicate technical findings clearly and professionally.Preferred Qualifications:Candidates with one or more of the following qualifications are highly desirable:Undergraduate coursework (20 or more science credits) demonstrating training in the scientific method and basic statistical methods.Experience using dichotomous keys for fish and invertebrate identification.Demonstrated experience identifying Pacific fish species.Previous experience as a fisheries observer aboard commercial fishing vessels on the U.S. West Coast.Experience reviewing Electronic Monitoring (EM) video.Strong written and verbal communication skills.