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Senior Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arcadis

Ecologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

You will be an important member of the west coast biological team interacting with other junior level biologists/ecologist, senior technical experts and project managers as part of an ...

Arcadis

Ecologist

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

You will be an important member of the west coast biological team interacting with other junior level biologists/ecologist, senior technical experts and project managers as part of an ...

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How much do senior ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior ecologist in the United States is $37.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.17 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Senior Ecologists face when managing multidisciplinary projects?

Senior Ecologists often lead projects that require integrating expertise from fields such as hydrology, botany, and environmental engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and collaboration across diverse teams with varying priorities and timelines. Additionally, balancing regulatory requirements, client expectations, and ecological integrity can be complex. Effective project management and stakeholder engagement skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges and deliver impactful results.

How much do senior ecologists make?

Senior ecologists typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often have advanced degrees and specialized skills in ecological assessment, environmental consulting, or conservation planning.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Senior Ecologists typically require a degree in ecology or related fields; however, some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach or exceed $10,000 per month without a degree. Success in these areas often depends on experience, skills, and networking rather than formal education.

What is the difference between Senior Ecologist vs Ecologist?

AspectSenior EcologistEcologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; often with additional certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology or related field; fewer certifications required
Work EnvironmentLead projects, mentor junior staff, coordinate research effortsAssist in research, data collection, and analysis under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, government agencies, environmental organizationsResearch institutions, environmental NGOs, government departments

The main difference between a Senior Ecologist and an Ecologist lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership roles. Senior Ecologists typically lead projects and mentor others, while Ecologists focus on supporting research activities. Both roles require a strong background in ecology, but Senior Ecologists often have more advanced credentials and industry experience.

What does a Senior Ecologist do?

A Senior Ecologist is a highly experienced professional who studies the relationships between living organisms and their environment. They often lead ecological surveys, manage environmental impact assessments, and provide expert advice on conservation and land management projects. Senior Ecologists also mentor junior staff, contribute to scientific reports, and liaise with clients and regulatory bodies to ensure projects comply with environmental legislation. Their role is critical in promoting biodiversity and sustainable development.

What is the highest paying job in ecology?

The highest paying roles in ecology are often senior-level positions such as Ecological Consultants, Environmental Directors, or Research Directors, which can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong project management skills, often working in consulting firms, government agencies, or private industry.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

By 2030, roles that rely heavily on manual processes or outdated technology, such as certain data entry clerks or traditional print media jobs, are expected to decline significantly. In the environmental sector, some entry-level or routine ecological monitoring positions may be replaced by automation and advanced sensors, but senior ecologists will continue to be essential for complex assessments and decision-making. Adaptation to new tools like GIS and remote sensing will be crucial for future ecological roles.

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

To thrive as a Senior Ecologist, you need advanced knowledge in ecology, environmental science, and field survey techniques, usually backed by a relevant degree and substantial field experience. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and environmental legislation is commonly required, along with certifications like CIEEM membership. Leadership, project management, and strong communication skills help in mentoring teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate ecological assessments, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading successful conservation projects.
More about Senior Ecologist jobs
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Senior Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Ecologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 18% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 22% Temporary, 52% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,128 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Senior Aquatic Resources Specialist | CA

Eocene Environmental Group

Chico, CA

$35.87 - $60.67/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Hourly

Reports To: Project Manager

Job Type: Full-Time, Regular

Compensation: $35.87 - $60.67 per hour, based on relevant experience

About Eocene Environmental Group:

Our team has spent the past two decades providing environmental, utility vegetation management (UVM), software and sustainability services. We are fortunate to be a part of the Wright Service Corp. family, which has helped us establish a strong foundation for continued growth and success.

Through a strategic alignment of values and goals, four Wright Service Corp. entities joined and integrated into one, operating as Eocene Environmental Group. These four entities are:

  • Forestry & Utility Division

  • Environmental Division

  • Technology & Innovation Division

  • Sustainability Division

JOB SUMMARY: The Senior Aquatic Resources Specialist is responsible for providing clients with a variety of wetland related services including delineations, restorations, permitting, reporting, design, and mitigation projects.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions:

  • Lead wetland delineations per the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual and Regional Supplements; strong familiarity with Arid West and Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast regions

  • Conduct wetland monitoring, regulatory coordination, and permitting activities

  • Identify Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) for potential Waters of the U.S. per USACE RGL 05-05 and Arid West field guidance

  • Perform fieldwork, data collection, and organization of field data

  • Prepare clear, professional technical reports

  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations

  • Assess threatened and endangered species habitat and regulatory status

  • Conduct quantitative and qualitative evaluations of wetlands and ecological communities

  • Apply knowledge of Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401, including permitting processes and regulatory mechanisms

  • Serve as liaison between clients and regulatory agencies

  • Understand and support client priorities and project objectives

  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance at work and meetings

  • Support, actively participate, and act in accordance with Wright's and Eocene Environmental Group's culture of safety and employee ownership

  • Comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations; maintains knowledge of and follows all company policies and procedures

OTHER DUTIES: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • Travel will vary seasonally based on specific project needs and can range from in-state to regional

  • Overnight travel may be required

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or related field

  • Minimum of 9 year's relevant professional experience

  • Wetland delineation training with 5+ years of delineation experience

  • Proficient in completing USACE Wetland Determination Forms and OHWM data sheets (including Arid West ephemeral/intermittent stream forms)

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Highly organized and self-motivated

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Teams, SharePoint, Outlook, Word, Excel)

  • Valid non-commercial driver's license

  • Experience collecting field data using handheld GPS units

  • Knowledge of West Coast threatened and endangered species, habitat requirements, and regulatory status

  • Experience with wetland mitigation design and water budget calculations

  • Experience obtaining Clean Water Act Section 404 and 401 permits

  • Understanding of Waters of the U.S. jurisdiction and policy

  • Stream classification and assessment experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Advanced degree in Environmental Science or a wetland-related field

  • Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT), or similar certification

  • Experience with the USACE Regulatory Request System

  • Experience using the Antecedent Precipitation Tool

  • Experience obtaining Fish & Game Code 1600 Streambed Alteration Agreements

  • Familiarity with CDFW's EPIMS system

  • Proficient in ESRI ArcGIS Pro (digitizing, spatial analysis, cartography); experience with Field Maps and/or Survey123

  • Knowledge of natural areas management and ecological restoration practices

  • Experience operating mid-sized equipment (e.g., tractors, ATVs)

  • Knowledge of wetland maintenance, restoration techniques, and environmental lift

  • Experience with wetland mitigation monitoring and reporting per federal and state requirements

Eocene Environmental Group, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

https://wrightservicecorp.com/privacy-policy

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