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Terrestrial Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an experienced Terrestrial Biologist with strong client relationships to add to our Infrastructure team in British Columbia. You will have the flexibility to work from the Burnaby ...

Minimum two years of professional terrestrial biology field experience. * Experience preparing biological monitoring reports. * Experience conducting surveys and monitoring for wildlife species in ...

Biologist The Downtown Aquarium in Houston, Texas is currently seeking a full time Biologist I or ... With a full-service restaurant, an upscale bar, a fully equipped ballroom, aquatic & terrestrial ...

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Terrestrial Biologist information

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$37K

$89.4K

$138K

How much do terrestrial biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for terrestrial biologist in the United States is $89,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a terrestrial biologist?

A terrestrial biologist is a scientist who studies organisms and ecosystems that exist primarily on land, rather than in aquatic environments. Their work involves researching plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as how these organisms interact with each other and their terrestrial habitats. Terrestrial biologists often conduct fieldwork, collect data, analyze environmental impacts, and contribute to conservation efforts. Their findings can help inform land management, wildlife protection, and ecological restoration projects.

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

To thrive as a Terrestrial Biologist, you need a solid background in ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, statistical analysis tools, and field sampling equipment is commonly required, and certifications in wildlife management or environmental assessment can be advantageous. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication help you excel in research, reporting, and collaboration. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing terrestrial ecosystems, informing conservation strategies, and effectively communicating findings to stakeholders.

What are some common challenges terrestrial biologists face when conducting fieldwork?

Terrestrial biologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote field sites. Managing logistics, ensuring personal safety, and transporting specialized equipment can also be demanding. Additionally, they may need to adapt research plans quickly if wildlife behavior or environmental conditions change unexpectedly. Collaboration with local stakeholders and effective communication with interdisciplinary teams are essential to overcome these hurdles and ensure successful data collection.

What is the difference between Terrestrial Biologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectTerrestrial BiologistMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Ecology, or Environmental ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLand-based habitats, forests, grasslands, wetlandsOcean, coastal areas, marine ecosystems
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, conservation groupsMarine research centers, aquariums, government agencies

Both roles involve studying living organisms, but terrestrial biologists focus on land ecosystems, while marine biologists specialize in oceanic environments. They share similar educational backgrounds and work for related organizations, but their specific habitats and research areas differ significantly.

Are wildlife biologists well paid?

Wildlife biologists, including terrestrial biologists, typically earn a median annual salary around $63,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, location, and employer. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can lead to higher pay, especially in research or management roles within government agencies or conservation organizations.
More about Terrestrial Biologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Terrestrial Biologist jobs?

Cities with the most Terrestrial Biologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Terrestrial Biologist jobs?

The most popular types of Terrestrial Biologist jobs are:

What states have the most Terrestrial Biologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Terrestrial Biologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Terrestrial Biologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.

Senior Terrestrial Biologist

Parsons

Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Parsons rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 452 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Parsons has been a leader in the planning, design and delivery of transportation infrastructure across the world for more than 80 years. We are looking for an experienced Terrestrial Biologist with strong client relationships to add to our Infrastructure team in British Columbia. You will have the flexibility to work from the Burnaby, Langley, Kamloops, or Victoria offices and also from home. Willingness to travel to field sites is expected.

Our team is focused on helping our clients including Federal, Provincial and Municipal Agencies, TransLink, BC Ferries and others to expand and improve infrastructure through innovative solutions for their planning and design challenges.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead terrestrial components of multi-disciplinary transportation infrastructure projects from planning through construction.
  • Act as the technical lead for terrestrial ecology assessments, environmental impact assessments, and permitting strategies
  • Lead and coordinate Species at Risk permitting processes at the provincial and federal level.
  • Provide senior technical review and sign-off on reports, environmental assessments, and permit applications.
  • Provide technical leadership and guidance to junior and intermediate Scientists and Technicians, and the project delivery team.
  • Liaise with existing public and private sector clients, regulatory agencies and sub-consultants
  • Assists in preparing proposals and cost estimates.
  • Preparation of permitting packages and/or parts of permitting packages.
  • May act in an advisory capacity to senior management on technical matters.
  • May manage tasks or small projects of small or moderate scope and complexity involving his/her technical expertise.
  • Preparation of written technical reports and complete technical documents.
  • Perform other responsibilities associated with this position as may be appropriate.

Experience:

  • 10+ years of progressive experience in terrestrial ecology, including leadership on complex infrastructure projects
  • Strong experience with Ecological Land Classification (ELC), habitat mapping, and vegetation community assessments.
  • Proven experience managing Species at Risk permitting and regulatory approvals in British Columbia.
  • Demonstrated experience and/or knowledge of the application of Species at Risk authorization process, gained through project experience;
  • Demonstrated experience in planning and designing terrestrial habitat mitigation and compensation measures;
  • Demonstrated knowledge of federal and provincial legislation, policies and procedures for terrestrial species and habitat in British Columbia;
  • Demonstrated experience in monitoring construction activities (e.g. identifying risk situations, recommending corrective actions/solutions); and
  • Demonstrated experience in the application of erosion and sediment control measures.
  • Experience in the identification of British Columbia flora and fauna (trees, shrubs, wildflowers, grasses, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and/or insects);
  • Experience in identifying and assessing terrestrial ecological impacts and preparing environmental impact assessment reports;
  • Knowledge of British Columbia environmental legislature and permitting related to theEnvironmental Management Act, Water Sustainability Act, Riparian Areas Protection Act, Water Protection Act, Species at Risk Act, and Migratory Birds Convention Act.

Qualifications:

  • 10 years of related work experience
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field.
  • Registered Professional Biologist (R.P.Bio) in British Columbia (required).
  • Demonstrated experience in monitoring construction activities (e.g. identifying risk situations, recommending corrective actions/solutions)
  • Certification in Ecological Land Classification an asset;
  • Competency regarding Wetland Identification & Delineation Guidance
  • Proficiency in various computer software applications including Survey 123 and ArcGIS
  • Completion of Erosion and Sediment Control Monitoring Training
  • Arborist certification (or potential to obtain such) an asset
  • Current or past certification as an ISA Certified Arborist or Registered Professional Forester is considered an asset
  • Requires a demonstrated proficiency in both written and oral communication skills
  • Must be able to travel to and from various work sites
This position is part of our Critical Infrastructure team.For more than 80 years, our experts have designed and delivered the critical infrastructure that connects and protects communities around the world. We work in collaborative teams, both within the company and with our partners and customers, to plan, design, build, and modernize infrastructure. We take special pride in projects and solutions that improve communities as well as people's quality of life by promoting economic growth, enhancing mobility, and increasing sustainability and resiliency. Powered by our people, we provide the imagination necessary to support our customers' visions-and to help them see what's next!Salary Range: $74,000 - $137,500This job posting is for a current addition or replacement opportunity within Parsons.We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as health, vision, dental, employer paid provincial care premiums, Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP), Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), life insurance, paid time off, sick leave, all province observed holidays off, and gym membership discounts to fit your busy lifestyle!Parsons is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace. Parsons equally employs representation at all job levels for indigenous peoples, women, individuals with disabilities, and visible minorities.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.


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