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Wildlife Ecologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Performance of ecological studies, including conducting field surveys, producing reports, and ... Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) or similar expert certifications Building what's next, together.

Performance of ecological studies, including conducting field surveys, producing reports, and ... Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) or similar expert certifications Building what's next, together.

Performance of ecological studies, including conducting field surveys, producing reports, and ... Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) or similar expert certifications Building what's next, together.

Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, wildlife or other related curriculum * 5-10 years of experience working with natural resource related projects * Basic computer skills (proficient with ...

New

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, wildlife or other related curriculum * 5-10 years of experience working with natural resource related projects * Basic computer skills ...

New

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, wildlife or other related curriculum * 5-10 years of experience working with natural resource related projects * Basic computer skills ...

New

Early Career Environmental Scientist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

S. wetland ecology, wildlife ecology, and/or botany * Fluency in regulatory agency guidelines in the state of Georgia (GA EPD, GA DNR, USACE, USFWS) * GIS experience * Capable of producing clear and ...

S. wetland ecology, wildlife ecology, and/or botany * Fluency in regulatory agency guidelines in the state of Georgia (GA EPD, GA DNR, USACE, USFWS) * GIS experience * Capable of producing clear and ...

Environmental Scientist IV

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

In this role, you will be responsible for conducting ecological assessments, wetland delineations, wildlife habitat evaluations, and permitting in support of a variety of projects across multiple ...

Project Scientist IV

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for conducting ecological assessments, wetland delineations, wildlife habitat evaluations, and permitting in support of a variety of projects across multiple ...

Wildlife Ecologist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$895

$6.6K

$8.5K

How much do wildlife ecologist jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average monthly pay for wildlife ecologist in Decatur, GA is $6,632.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $6,508.33 and $8,016.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wildlife ecologist?

A wildlife ecologist travels to a particular spot in nature, researches the conditions there, and writes a report on any risk factors for animal and plant life. You may also work with a biologist to learn how wildlife functions in a given biome. In this career, you work with the conservation of the ecosystem. You do this through a private agency or the government. Wildlife ecologists don’t always interact with the biome directly; rather, you observe and report your findings. The qualifications necessary for a career as a wildlife ecologist are usually a bachelor’s degree in environmental science as a minimum, but many ecologists have a master’s degree or even a doctorate. You should also demonstrate the skills, experience, and ability to navigate the wilderness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wildlife ecologist?

To thrive as a Wildlife Ecologist, you need a solid background in ecology, biology, and environmental science, usually supported by at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field data collection methods is commonly required. Strong observational, problem-solving, and communication skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These competencies are crucial for conducting research, interpreting ecological data accurately, and effectively sharing findings to support conservation efforts.

How does a wildlife ecologist typically collaborate with conservation organizations and land managers?

Wildlife Ecologists frequently work with conservation organizations and land managers to develop and implement strategies for protecting habitats and species. This collaboration can involve sharing research findings, advising on land use planning, and participating in field surveys or restoration projects. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as ecologists often need to balance scientific recommendations with practical management needs and policy constraints. These partnerships provide valuable opportunities to influence conservation outcomes and broaden professional networks.

What is the difference between Wildlife Ecologist vs Conservation Biologist?

AspectWildlife EcologistConservation Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Wildlife Biology, or related field; often requires fieldwork experienceBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Conservation, or related disciplines; may require certifications in conservation practices
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research stations, or labsFieldwork, policy work, and community engagement in conservation projects
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, research institutions, environmental consulting firmsNonprofits, government agencies, research organizations focused on conservation efforts

Wildlife Ecologists primarily study animal populations and their habitats, focusing on ecological processes. Conservation Biologists work to protect species and ecosystems, often applying ecological research to conservation strategies. While both roles involve fieldwork and ecological knowledge, Wildlife Ecologists tend to focus more on scientific research, whereas Conservation Biologists emphasize applying that research to conservation policies and actions.

How long does it take to become a wildlife ecologist?

Becoming a wildlife ecologist typically requires a bachelor's degree in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field, which takes about four years. Many positions also prefer or require a master's degree or higher, adding an additional 2-4 years of study and research. Gaining field experience through internships or volunteer work is also important for career development.

What can you do with a degree in wildlife ecology?

A degree in wildlife ecology prepares individuals for careers as wildlife ecologists, conservation scientists, or environmental consultants. These roles involve studying animal populations, habitat management, and conservation strategies, often requiring fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of ecological tools and regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Wildlife Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Wildlife Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wildlife Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildlife Ecologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Wildlife Ecologist jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Wildlife Ecologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Wildlife Ecologist job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 4% Internship, 72% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,589 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

$40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

EcologistID:NPSSER-009-005Location:AtlantaProgram:NPS
Wage/Hr:$40.00Hours/Week:25Minimum Age:55

For over 25 years, National Experienced Workforce Solutions (NEW Solutions) has specialized in connecting experienced workers (ages 55+) with full-time and part-time job opportunities that support the critical missions of Federal Agencies across the United States.

NEW Solutions connects experienced workers (ages 55+) with the National Park Service (NPS). These experienced professionals provide administrative expertise, facilities management, natural and cultural resource planning, and a broad array of other professional skills that support the National Park Service through the Experienced Services Program (ESP).

Positions listed here do not guarantee employment for any definite period. Enrollment in the Experienced Worker Programs administered by NEW Solutions is temporary. The enrollment relationship between NEW Solutions and the Enrollee is an ?at-will? relationship. This means that an Enrollee is free to terminate enrollment at any time during the enrollment period, and NEW Solutions and the Agency have the right to terminate the relationship with the Enrollee.

PLEASE NOTE: An ?Enrollee? is not a federal employee, nor an employee of NEW Solutions. An ?Enrollee? is a participant in a grant program established through a Cooperative Agreement funded by the agency and administered by NEW Solutions.

This opportunity applies to applicants legally eligible to work in the United States.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 10 year(s) of experience in a profession with primary duties involved in the study, inventory, monitoring, restoration, and management of a broad range of natural resources. Examples of program areas may include, but are not limited to, vegetation, wildlife, fisheries, exotic and pest species, sensitive species, and associated ecological components such as air, water, and soil. OR MA/MS Degree in Science, Ecology, Biology, or related field with minimum additional experience of 10 year(s) in Ecology, including Aquatics, Wildlife, and interaction with Physical Sciences

  • Required: valid driver?s license; willingness to work/hike in uneven terrain, carry a day pack, and carry an overnight backpack up to 45 lbs; and, capacity to follow field/office protocols (and teach to others); demonstrated experience with identification of amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds in SEKI; demonstrated experience to teach others on how to identify amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds in SE region; willingness to drive personal vehicle to study areas.
  • Experience required with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Teams, MS Outlook, MS SharePoint
Duties:

Use existing specialized KSAs to provide aquatic, wildlife, and physical sciences expertise to park staff as needed. Responsibilities primarily include using various techniques to conduct one or more of the following: 1) recovery actions for several listed animal species; 2) critical habitat restoration; 3) surveying, monitoring, and researching high-priority animal species and physical sciences projects; and 4) assisting with administration of high-priority projects being implemented and planned.

  • Ecological Knowledge: Apply knowledge of Southeast Region fauna and ecology, physical natural resources, and project implementation to provide experienced support for high-priority needs in the aquatic, wildlife, and physical science programs.   40%
  • Habitat Restoration Knowledge: Apply knowledge of Southeast Region aquatic habitat restoration and aquatic food webs and local/regional experience to provide skilled support for high-priority habitat restoration needs in the aquatic program.   40%
  • Wildlife Knowledge: Use local/regional experience and intermediate-to-advanced identification techniques (keys, field guides, and other wildlife id resources) to identify amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds when conducting surveys and recovery and restoration actions. Coordinate identification and/or other support with outside experts as needed.   15%
  • Leadership & Safety: Use leadership skills and experience to maintain good communication with field crews, program managers and lead technicians, and Park Dispatch. Use appropriate tools (e.g., GPS, maps) to navigate safely either alone or with crew members. Follow NPS safety and communication protocols when working in the field. Communicate with NPS partner about safety concerns or incidents.    5%

Other:
  • Required Certifications: On USFWS List of Authorized Individuals to handle T&E Species
  • Overnight travel: Estimate 0-1 week quarterly
  • Air travel anticipated: Estimate 0-1 week quarterly
  • Health and Safety Considerations: This position may spend some time in the field, specifically in locations with uneven terrain and surrounding hazards such as dead and dying trees, ticks, rattlesnakes, and temperature extremes. Staff in this position will be provided with safety protocols and information related to these hazards and will be required to follow safety protocols similar to NPS staff. These protocols may require use of an NPS radio and communications tracking by NPS dispatch. Staff will also be encouraged to practice operational leadership principals, which encourage staff to proactively identify potential risks and appropriate mitigations and empower staff to choose not to complete a task when risks cannot be safely mitigated.
  • Required Safety Gear: There may be situations when personal protective equipment is necessary for the completion of a task, such as wearing a hard hat in areas with a high number of hazard trees. If and when PPE is identified, it will be provided to the staff by the NPS for their use.
  • Physical requirements: Job is primarily sedentary and performed in an office environment. Some field visits may involve brief exposure to arduous climatic conditions (e.g. temps >90 degrees) and the need for sufficient mobility to navigate uneven terrain. . Ability to sit at a desk for extended periods of time while providing computer-based support Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

NEW Solutions is committed to promoting equal opportunity and to an environment free from discrimination and harassment in any form administering Experienced Worker Programs under cooperative agreements with federal agencies. It is NEW Solutions' policy to comply with all applicable laws that provide equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in enrolling participants in the federal programs.