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Stream Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Execute and assist with stream and wetland delineations. * Assist in the preparation of regulatory ... BA/BS degree; preferable in Natural Resources, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, Wildlife ...

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 ...

... ecology documents in accordance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) environmental ... Division (GEPD) Stream Buffer Variance (SBV) applications. Specific responsibilities of this ...

... ecology documents in accordance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) environmental ... Division (GEPD) Stream Buffer Variance (SBV) applications. Specific responsibilities of this ...

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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 Jul 22, 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:
Infographic showing various Stream Ecology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 55% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 43% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,762 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Ecologist

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Overview
As an Ecologist with Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC), in our Athens, PA office, you'll work with project teams to navigate today's complex environmental regulatory landscape, helping our energy, commercial, and industrial clients to achieve their objectives while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. You'll begin by assisting on wetland and stream delineations, preparing delineation reports, and helping to prepare permit applications. You will enter our career model where you aren't just an assistant but a leader in training. You will learn what data to collect and why we collect it. As you progress on your career path, you can eventually lead field teams and gain project management experience. Approximately equal amounts of your time will be spent working in the field and in the office.
CEC's corporate Ecological Practice accounts for a significant portion of our annual revenues, making it an essential part of the integrated services that we offer to our clients. CEC's Ecological Practice distinguishes itself from the service offerings of other firms because of the breadth of our technical expertise including: wetland and stream delineations and permitting; compensatory mitigation; threatened & endangered species surveys and compliance; ecosystem restoration; and environmental planning (NEPA and FERC). The corporate practice group works cooperatively across all CEC offices to bring the necessary ecological expertise to our clients' specific project needs.
Qualifications
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in a natural sciences field (e.g., Biology, Botany, Ecology, Environmental Science, or Forestry)
  • Ability and desire to work outdoors accurately collecting data in varying weather conditions and terrain while adhering to operating procedures and safety policies
  • Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work as a team player, take direction, and collaborate with others.

Desired qualifications:
  • Previous internship or 1+ years of professional ecological or biological experience
  • Experience assisting and leading wetland and stream delineations and preparing reports
  • Botanical and plant identification skills
  • 40-Hour wetland delineation training
  • Experience preparing Pennsylvania Chapter 105 permit applications
  • Experience using mapping-grade GPS and ArcGIS Pro

About Us
We have experts! CEC is consistently ranked as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record. We are looking for people who enjoy using their education and experience to solve difficult technical problems and work on interesting projects. You can accomplish this while working with a team of professionals who are equally motivated to provide high levels of service to our clients and to teach you along the way.
We have support! We have a variety of Employee Resource Groups, including CEC Community - focused on giving back to the communities in which we work; CEC Ignite - focused on helping professionals early in their careers to develop their pathway; CEC iDEA - focused on inclusion, diversity, equality, and acceptance; and CEC Women - focused on creating internal and external opportunities for women to network and leverage professional experience!
We care about our people! People and Culture are two of the five elements of our strategic plan. When you care about your people, they will want to grow a career with you - that is our goal. CEC offers you a small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities. Not only will we help you develop professionally, but we will also provide an opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success.
CEC offers a matching 401(k); profit sharing; a performance bonus; company stock; medical, dental, and vision insurance; short and long-term disability; tuition assistance; professional development; and work-life balance.
CEC is an equal opportunity employer. CEC does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.
THIRD PARTY RECRUITERS
If CEC has not expressly requested recruiting services or contractually engaged with you for recruiting services on a specific position, any resumes or candidate profiles sent to CEC shall be considered unsolicited. Therefore, any such submissions will be considered property of CEC, with no associated fees due to your firm.