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Wildlife Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

OR · On-site

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

OR · On-site

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

WA

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

OR

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

OR

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

OR · On-site

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

WA · On-site

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

OR

$61K/yr

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision.

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Wildlife Biologist information

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$22.5K

$61.2K

$105.5K

How much do wildlife biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife biologist in the United States is $61,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a wildlife biologist do?

A wildlife biologist studies animals and their habitats to understand how they interact with their environment. Their work often involves conducting field research, collecting data on animal populations, and monitoring ecosystems. They may also develop conservation plans, write reports, and work with government agencies or conservation organizations to protect wildlife. Wildlife biologists can specialize in specific animals, ecosystems, or conservation issues.

Are wildlife biologists well paid?

Wildlife biologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn a median annual wage around $50,000 to $70,000. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as GIS or ecological modeling, can earn higher salaries, especially with additional certifications or fieldwork experience.

What Does a Wildlife Biologist Do?

Wildlife biology is the study of animals in their natural habitat. A wildlife biologist, also called a zoologist, conducts studies to understand animal populations in their natural habitat. They keep records, organize and present findings, and run experiments. Wildlife biologists may also work for governments or animal advocacy groups, making recommendations for policies and advocating for habitat protections. Wildlife biologists may get to interact with animals to identify their needs, so this is one of the top jobs for animal lovers.

What jobs do wildlife biologists do?

Wildlife biologists study animals and their habitats to understand their behavior, populations, and ecological roles. They conduct field research, collect data, and analyze environmental impacts, often working outdoors and using tools like GPS and tracking devices. Their work supports conservation efforts and requires knowledge of ecology, biology, and sometimes permits or certifications.

What are some common challenges wildlife biologists face when working in the field?

Wildlife biologists often encounter unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and remote locations during fieldwork, which can make data collection physically demanding. Additionally, they may need to adapt their schedules to the habits of studied species, sometimes working early mornings, late nights, or extended periods away from home. Collaboration with landowners, government agencies, and conservation organizations is also essential, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills to balance research goals with stakeholder interests.

What can you do with an animal biology degree?

A wildlife biologist with an animal biology degree can work in research, conservation, habitat management, and environmental education. They often conduct field studies, collect data, and use tools like GIS and GPS. Certification and field experience enhance employment opportunities in this field.

What is the difference between Wildlife Biologist vs Conservation Scientist?

AspectWildlife BiologistConservation Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in biology, ecology, or related field; often requires fieldwork experienceBachelor's or higher in environmental science, ecology, or related; may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research labs, or officesFieldwork, policy work, and research in natural and protected areas
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, research institutions, environmental organizationsGovernment agencies, NGOs, consulting firms, research institutions

Wildlife Biologists focus on studying animals and their habitats through field research and data collection. Conservation Scientists work on developing and implementing strategies to protect natural resources and wildlife, often combining research with policy and management. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but Wildlife Biologists are more research-oriented, while Conservation Scientists emphasize conservation planning and policy.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Biologist, you need a strong background in ecology, biology, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Proficiency with GIS software, field research equipment, and data analysis tools is commonly required, along with certifications like HAZWOPER or wildlife handling permits. Excellent observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication help you collaborate effectively and present findings clearly. These competencies are crucial for conducting accurate research, informing conservation efforts, and ensuring the protection of wildlife habitats.

Is wildlife biology in high demand?

Wildlife biologists are employed in conservation, research, and environmental management, with demand driven by increasing environmental awareness and conservation efforts. Job growth varies by region and specialization, and strong skills in data collection, GIS, and ecological analysis improve employment prospects.
More about Wildlife Biologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildlife Biologist jobs? Cities with the most Wildlife Biologist job openings:
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What states have the most Wildlife Biologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildlife Biologist jobs include:
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What are popular job titles related to Wildlife Biologist jobs? For Wildlife Biologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wildlife Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Biologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,173 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife Biologist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

OR • On-site

$61K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

If selected, you will serve as a Wildlife Biologist within Wildlife Services and perform assignments involving project and program delivery, management, and administration with minimal supervision. The work is primarily concerned with wildlife damage management operations relating to the assessment, reduction, and/or elimination of problems associated with wild and/or feral animal species in urban, suburban, and rural environments.
Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
Degree: Biological Science that included:
  • At least 9 semester hours in such wildlife subjects as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, wildlife management, or research courses in the field of wildlife biology; and
  • At least 12 semester hours in zoology in such subjects as general zoology, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, cellular biology, parasitology, entomology, or research courses in such subjects (Excess courses in wildlife biology may be used to meet the zoology requirements where appropriate.); and
  • At least 9 semester hours in botany or the related plant sciences.
OR
Combination of education and experience: equivalent to a major in biological science (i.e., at least 30 semester hours), with at least 9 semester hours in wildlife subjects, 12 semester hours in zoology, and 9 semester hours in botany or related plant science, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement you will also need to meet the following:
FOR THE GS-9 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-7 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Experience selecting the appropriate method, such as pesticides, firearms, explosives, repellents, traps, to develop and deliver safe and effective damage management strategies.
  • Experience coordinating a wildlife damage management project involving multiple stakeholders and cooperators.
  • Experience interpreting and applying policies, regulations, laws, and ordinances that affect wildlife management operations.;

OR
2 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree in one of the following degree fields: Wildlife Biology, Wildlife Ecology, or Wildlife Management or closely related field.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
  • This position requires specific coursework or a degree in a specific field to be basically qualified.
  • You are qualifying for the position based on education.
  • You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education.
  • This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-9 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER

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