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Research Zoology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... research projects as opportunities arise. * Communicate professionally and effectively with ... College degree in Zoology, Biology, Psychology, or related field. * Knowledge of SEA systems ...

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How much do research zoology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for research zoology in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the research zoology position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Research Zoology, a strong academic background in biology or zoology, experience with field and laboratory research, and proficiency in data analysis are essential. Familiarity with statistical software, GIS tools, and laboratory equipment, along with relevant certifications in animal handling or research compliance, is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork and communication skills help researchers excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. Mastering these skills and qualifications is crucial for conducting accurate scientific research, contributing to the field, and effectively communicating findings.

What is a research zoologist?

A Research Zoology job involves studying animals, their behaviors, genetics, and ecosystems to understand their biology and interactions with the environment. Researchers may work in laboratories, conduct field studies, and analyze data to contribute to conservation, wildlife management, or scientific knowledge. They often specialize in areas like ecology, physiology, or taxonomy. Research zoologists may work for universities, government agencies, or conservation organizations. Their findings help inform policies, protect endangered species, and advance scientific understanding of animal life.

How do you become a research zoologist?

To become a research zoologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field, followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Gaining experience through internships, fieldwork, and developing skills in data analysis and scientific writing are also important for career advancement.

How much do research zoologists make?

Research zoologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $63,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees and specialized skills in fieldwork or laboratory techniques can lead to higher compensation.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environments for a research zoologist?

As a Research Zoologist, your daily tasks can include designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing samples, observing animal behavior in the field, and recording detailed scientific data. You may split your time between fieldwork, such as surveying habitats or tracking wildlife, and laboratory work for data analysis and specimen examination. Collaboration with other scientists, institutions, or conservation organizations is common, and you’ll also spend time preparing reports or scientific publications. Work environments can be varied, ranging from outdoor locations in diverse ecosystems to academic or research laboratories. This diversity offers engaging challenges and makes the role both dynamic and rewarding.

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What cities are hiring for Research Zoology jobs?

Cities with the most Research Zoology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Zoology jobs?

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What states have the most Research Zoology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Research Zoology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Research Zoology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Supervisory Research Zoologist

Smithsonian Institution

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Smithsonian Institution rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 29 rated museums


Job description

Summary
The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), Washington, DC. with duty location in either Washington D.C. or Front Royal, VA.
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Duties
Help
The Supervisory Research Zoologist leads research groups and conducts research in one or several areas of expertise, including, but not limited to, using genomic and transcriptomic data to assess genetic diversity, adaptation, resilience and population history.
In this position, you will:
  • Lead the development of a multifaceted research program in conservation genomics that addresses a broad range of complex scientific questions and applied conservation challenges.
  • Conduct research using one or several advanced technologies and tools such as genomic, transcriptomic, environmental DNA (eDNA), and ancient DNA approaches to evaluate genetic diversity, population history, species distribution, abundance, diet, evolutionary processes, and conservation outcomes, while advancing bioinformatics tools and methods to inform conservation strategies.
  • Develop and communicate scientifically rigorous conclusions through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly contributions that advance the field of conservation genomics.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert and consultant to scientists, researchers, and professionals within Federal agencies, universities, laboratories, zoological parks, and research institutions on matters related to conservation genomics.
  • Supervise, direct, coordinate, and oversee the programs functions, and initiatives performed by staff.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation
  • May need to complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer
  • Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

Conditions of Employment
Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.
For information on qualification requirements, see Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions on OPM website.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  1. Degree: zoology; or a related discipline or field of science that included at least 20 semester hours in zoology and related animal sciences.
    OR
  2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in zoology, or in a related discipline that included course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Graduate Education: To be qualifying, graduate study must have been in one of the major fields of zoology or have followed a curriculum or pattern of training that placed major emphasis on one of these disciplines or subject-matter fields, such as nematology or parasitology. Graduate study in related fields of science such as microbiology, medicine, veterinary medicine, or plant pathology that involved cross-training in zoology or one of the fields of zoology may also be qualifying, provided there was a sufficient amount of emphasis on zoology.
In addition to the basic qualification requirement above:
Experience: You qualify for this position if you have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 level in the Federal Service. For this position, specialized experience is defined as developing, planning, and implementing a science and conservation program, leading and supervising others that lead to advance the field of conservation genomics and related research areas.
Your resume must be no more than two (2) pages and should clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and specialized experience required for this position. Do not copy language directly from the vacancy announcement, as you will be deemed ineligible for consideration. Instead, provide detailed, descriptive information about your actual experience.
In addition to a two-page resume, please provide a Curriculum Vitae (CV) with your publications, grants, professional accomplishments, and other relevant qualifications and activities.
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, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.
Or a Combination: Education and experience may be combined to meet the basic qualifications. For a full explanation of this option please see the Qualification Standards. Special instructions for Foreign Education: If you are qualifying by education and/or you have education completed in a foreign college/university described above, it is your responsibility to provide transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study. For instructions on where to fax these documents, see the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
Additional information
This position is not included in the bargaining unit.
Recruitment Incentive: Recruitment incentive(s) may be authorized for this position. However, approval for incentives are contingent upon various availability. If authorized, certain incentives will require the incumbent to sign a service agreement to remain in the Federal government for a certain time period.
Note: This statement does not imply nor guarantee an incentive will be offered and paid.
Selections may be made for vacancies across the Smithsonian Institution (SI). By applying to this position, you agree to allow your application and other personal information to be shared with one or more SI hiring officials for employment consideration for same/similar positions within the location(s) identified in this announcement.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, vacation and sick leave, holidays, health/life insurance, accident insurance, and excellent retirement program options.
Please see Benefits at https://www.si.edu/OHR/benefits for a complete description.
Flexible Spending Accounts - https://www.fsafeds.com/
Health Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.asp
Leave - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/index.asp
Life Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/life/index.asp
Long Term Care Insurance - http://www.ltcfeds.com
Retirement Program - https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/

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