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Temporary Wildlife Biologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

On-Call Biologist

Riverside, CA · On-site

$27.55 - $34.43/hr

This is an on-call, as-needed, temporary hourly position. Candidates local to Southern California ... Conduct pedestrian surveys for wildlife, vegetation, and sensitive habitats * Perform habitat ...

This is an oncall, asneeded, temporary hourly position. Candidates local to Southern California are ... Conduct pedestrian surveys for wildlife, vegetation, and sensitive habitats * Perform habitat ...

OC Animal Care provides temporary shelter and medical care for "lost" owned or stray animals, as ... Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Veterinary Technology, or Communications will ...

OC Animal Care provides temporary shelter and medical care for "lost" owned or stray animals, as ... Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Veterinary Technology, or Communications will ...

Temporary Wildlife Biologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$23.5K

$63.8K

$110.1K

How much do temporary wildlife biologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary wildlife biologist in Riverside, CA is $63,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Wildlife Biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Wildlife Biologist, you need a solid background in ecology, wildlife biology, field research, and usually a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, and wildlife survey protocols is often required, and certifications such as HAZWOPER or First Aid may be advantageous. Strong observational skills, adaptability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for working independently or in teams in varied outdoor settings. These skills ensure accurate data collection and analysis, promote safety, and support the effective management and conservation of wildlife populations.

What types of fieldwork and data collection can a Temporary Wildlife Biologist expect during a typical assignment?

As a Temporary Wildlife Biologist, you can expect to spend a significant portion of your time conducting field surveys, monitoring wildlife populations, and collecting habitat data. Assignments often include tracking animal movements, recording observations, setting up and checking camera traps, and sometimes assisting in tagging or banding animals. The work is typically hands-on, outdoors, and may involve varying terrain and weather conditions. You'll also collaborate closely with permanent staff, landowners, and sometimes other agencies to ensure data accuracy and project goals are met.

What does a Temporary Wildlife Biologist do?

A Temporary Wildlife Biologist is responsible for studying and monitoring animal populations and their habitats for a set period, often as part of research projects, surveys, or conservation efforts. They may collect data in the field, track wildlife, analyze samples, and assist with habitat assessments. Temporary positions can be seasonal or project-based and often involve physical work outdoors, sometimes in remote locations. These roles help organizations gather important ecological data to inform management and conservation decisions.

What is the difference between Temporary Wildlife Biologist vs Wildlife Technician?

AspectTemporary Wildlife BiologistWildlife Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in wildlife biology or related field; some roles may require state-specific permitsTypically an associate degree or relevant coursework; some positions may require certification
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research projects, data analysis, report writingFieldwork, habitat management, data collection, assisting biologists
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, research institutions, environmental consulting firmsWildlife agencies, conservation organizations, research projects

The main difference between a Temporary Wildlife Biologist and a Wildlife Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Temporary Wildlife Biologists typically hold higher education credentials and focus on research, data analysis, and reporting. Wildlife Technicians often assist with fieldwork and data collection, usually requiring less formal education. Both roles are essential in wildlife conservation and often work together in the same environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife Biologist jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Wildlife Biologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Temporary Wildlife Biologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Temporary Wildlife Biologist job openings:
As-Needed Biologist

$30 - $39/hr

Temporary

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Temporary
Description
Looking for meaningful fieldwork with a company that values science, collaboration, and flexibility? HELIX Environmental Planning is growing, and we're seeking motivated As-Needed Biologists to support our Southern California biology team during our busy field seasons. This As-Needed Biologist role is ideal for early to mid-level professional biologists who thrive in the field, enjoy diverse projects, and want flexible, as-needed work with a respected environmental consulting firm. If you're an As-Needed Biologist ready to make an impact, we want to hear from you.
Why HELIX?
HELIX Environmental Planning is a California-based, employee-owned environmental consulting firm known for technical excellence, collaboration, and integrity. As an As-Needed Biologist, you'll join a supportive team that values high-quality science, safety, and professional respect. This is an as-needed, hourly position with variable hours, commonly ramping up during the spring and peak field seasons-perfect for professionals seeking flexibility while working on meaningful environmental projects.
Day in the Life
As an As-Needed Biologist, your days will be spent in the field across Southern California-conducting construction monitoring, performing bird surveys, mapping vegetation, and supporting restoration and infrastructure projects. You'll coordinate schedules with project managers, document field conditions, and contribute to projects that protect sensitive biological resources.
What You'll Do
  • Conduct terrestrial biological monitoring for construction and restoration projects
  • Perform biological surveys including bird surveys, vegetation mapping, and focused species surveys (including rare plants)
  • Maintain accurate field notes, maps, and project documentation
  • Manage your workload and coordinate schedules with project managers
  • Deliver high-quality work products on time and within budget

Compensation
$30 - $39 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
Ready to put your field expertise to work? Apply today to join HELIX Environmental Planning as an As-Needed Biologist and be part of a team making a real environmental difference across Southern California.
HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.
Requirements
Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, or related field
• Minimum 2 years of professional terrestrial biology experience (environmental consulting required)
• Experience with Southern California terrestrial flora, fauna and rare plant identification
• Experience with construction monitoring and/or conducting field surveys, including bird surveys
• Ability to hike long distances over varied terrain and weather conditions
• Valid California Driver's License with a clean driving record
Preferred Qualifications
• Valid recovery USFWS permits for listed species (e.g., coastal California gnatcatcher, Quino checkerspot butterfly)
• Valid Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP) from CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife
• Previously approved by CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife as a Designated Biologist on projects
• Experience with least Bell's vireo, Arroyo toad, desert tortoise and/or burrowing owl surveys
• Experience preparing biological monitoring reports
• Experience conducting surveys and monitoring for desert plant and wildlife species in Southern California
Salary Description
Range of $30 to $39