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Stream Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is seeking lab and field research assistants to work in the Allen Stream Ecology Lab at Penn State. Field duties will ...

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Stream Ecology information

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$11.5K

$66.8K

$118.5K

How much do stream ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for stream ecology in the United States is $66,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Stream Ecologist, you need a strong background in aquatic biology, environmental science, and ecological research, usually supported by a relevant degree such as in ecology, environmental science, or biology. Familiarity with field sampling equipment, GIS software, water quality analysis tools, and statistical analysis programs is typically required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on research and sharing findings. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing stream ecosystems, informing conservation efforts, and communicating results to both scientific and public audiences.

What is the difference between Stream Ecology vs Fish Biologist?

AspectStream EcologyFish Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Fisheries, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in streams, rivers, and aquatic habitatsFieldwork and laboratory work focused on fish populations
Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, conservation projectsWildlife agencies, research labs, fisheries management

Stream Ecology focuses on studying aquatic ecosystems, including water quality and habitat health, while Fish Biologists specialize in studying fish species, populations, and behaviors. Both roles often overlap in fieldwork and require similar educational backgrounds, but their primary focus areas differ. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in aquatic sciences.

What is stream ecology?

Stream ecology is the scientific study of the interactions between organisms and their environment within flowing freshwater systems, such as rivers and streams. It encompasses the examination of physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape the structure and function of these aquatic ecosystems. Stream ecologists investigate topics like water quality, nutrient cycling, biodiversity, habitat connectivity, and the impacts of human activities on stream health. Their research helps inform conservation efforts and sustainable management of freshwater resources.

What are some common challenges faced by stream ecologists in conducting field research, and how can they be managed?

Stream ecologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, fluctuating water levels, and difficult terrain when conducting fieldwork. Managing these challenges requires careful planning, flexibility in scheduling, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Collaborating with local authorities and landowners can help secure access to research sites, while using specialized equipment—like waders, water quality meters, and GPS devices—can increase efficiency and ensure accurate data collection. Teamwork and clear communication are also essential, as fieldwork is usually conducted in small, collaborative groups.
More about Stream Ecology jobs
What cities are hiring for Stream Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Stream Ecology job openings:
What states have the most Stream Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Stream Ecology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Stream Ecology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Stream Ecology jobs are:
Stream Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Stream Ecology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 54% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,762 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Ecologist III - Field

Ecologist III - Field

Metro Consulting Associates LLC

Plymouth, MI

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

The Ecologist III is a senior-level, field-focused Wetland Ecologist responsible for conducting advanced ecological field investigations and supporting regulatory compliance efforts for complex environmental projects. This position spends the majority of time performing hands-on field work, including wetland delineations, ecological surveys, monitoring, and compliance inspections, with supporting office-based responsibilities related to data analysis, reporting, permitting, and coordination.

The Ecologist III serves as a technical resource to project teams, clients, and regulatory agencies and plays a key role on highly technical projects involving multiple layers of regulatory review and approval.

Duties & Responsibilities

Primary Field Responsibilities (Approximately 75-80%)

  • Team lead in charge of completing wetland/waters assessments and delineations according to the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineations Manual and applicable regional supplements.
  • Perform wetland inventories, functional assessments, and wetland monitoring.
  • Conduct ecological surveys, such as vegetation assessments, rare species habitat assessments, stream assessments, tree surveys, and environmental compliance. 
  • Participate in threatened and endangered species surveys and related best management practices (BMP) and/or compliance activities.
  • Perform construction and compliance monitoring including field inspections and documentation.
  • Collect, record, and maintain accurate field notes, GPS data, maps, photographs, and logs.
  • Evaluate natural resources and identify potential environmental constraints or compliance issues in the field.
  • Travel regularly to project sites and work outdoors in varied terrain and weather conditions.
  • Support and mentor junior field staff during field investigations and monitoring activities.

Secondary Office / Technical Support Responsibilities (Approximately 20-25%)

  • Prepare and/or review technical reports, including wetland/waters delineations, stream assessments, ecological surveys, habitat assessments, and monitoring reports.
  • Assist with preparation of wetland restoration plans.
  • Prepare Biological Assessments and develop avoidance, minimization, or mitigation strategies for sensitive species and regulated habitats.
  • Coordinate with project managers, clients, and regulatory agencies regarding technical findings and permitting requirements.
  • Provide technical input to support permitting and regulatory compliance under USACE, and different Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (EGLE) state regulations.
  • Prepare or oversee preparation of data tables, figures, maps, and documentation related to ecological work.
  • Support project profitability through coordination with Project Managers and efficient task execution.
  • Provide input to improve ecological quality control processes and identify training or resource needs.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, or related field and/or equivalent experience
  • Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT) or seasoned wetland delineator. 
  • Have received formal wetland delineation training (certificate of completion required).
  • Proven leadership skills, and experience as a team leader.
  • Minimum 10-15 years of applicable experience, with a minimum 3-5 years of experience conducting wetland delineations.
  • Strong working knowledge of the USACE wetland 1987 delineation methodology, and the applicable regional supplements, including atypical situations. 
  • Experienced with native and invasive plant identification within Michigan and the Great Lakes Region.
  • Knowledge of federal (Section 404 and 401 Permitting) and state (Michigan and Indiana) wetland regulations and permitting.
  • Experienced with the taxonomically identification of flora and fauna common to the Midwest, specifically to Michigan.
  • Familiar with federal and state threatened and endangered species regulations.
  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively under tight deadlines as well as balance multiple on-going projects at one time. 
  • Strong planning, organization, preparation, and execution capabilities.
  • Resourceful, action-oriented, with strong problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites and the corporate office
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with technical and non-technical teams
  • Experience with GPS units and related software (ESRI, Pathfinder Office, etc.)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel

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