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Wildlife Field Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Audubon

Starr Ranch Field Assistant

Canyon, CA

$23/hr

... wildlife. The Senior Field Assistant will support Starr Ranch's invasive species control and habitat restoration work, spending part of their time working independently to remove invasive plants and ...

Valiant

Authorized Wildlife Biologist

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

Conduct field surveys for wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and ... * Assist with wildlife capture, handling, and monitoring activities when permitted and required.

Virginia Tech

Wildlife Biologist

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Natural Resources The Natural Resources Specialist will assist Marine Corps Base Quantico fish and ... The incumbent will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to collect field data and implement ...

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Wildlife Field Assistant information

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$24K

$46.6K

$97.5K

How much do wildlife field assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife field assistant in the United States is $46,629.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wildlife field assistant?

Wildlife Field Assistants are professionals who support research and conservation projects by collecting data on wildlife and their habitats. Their work often involves fieldwork such as observing animals, recording behavior, tracking movements, and sometimes capturing or tagging animals for study. They may also maintain equipment, assist in habitat restoration, and help with data entry and analysis. Wildlife Field Assistants play a crucial role in understanding ecosystems and informing conservation efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wildlife field assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wildlife Field Assistant, you need a background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, often supported by relevant coursework or a degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GPS devices, data collection software, camera traps, and sometimes certifications such as First Aid or Wildlife Handling are typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work independently in remote outdoor environments are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, safety, and effective collaboration, which are vital for successful wildlife research and conservation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by wildlife field assistants during fieldwork?

Wildlife Field Assistants often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh outdoor environments, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need for long or irregular hours, especially during peak research seasons. Additionally, accurate data collection requires patience, attention to detail, and adaptability when dealing with wildlife that may be elusive or difficult to observe. Collaborating closely with researchers and other team members is essential to ensure safety and the successful completion of field projects.

What is the difference between Wildlife Field Assistant vs Wildlife Technician?

AspectWildlife Field AssistantWildlife Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic certificationsAssociate degree or relevant certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentField sites, forests, parks, wildlife reservesFieldwork combined with laboratory or office tasks, similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, research projectsWildlife agencies, research institutions, environmental consultancies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in wildlife conservationViewed as a more technical or specialized role in wildlife management

The Wildlife Field Assistant and Wildlife Technician roles share similar environments and employer types, often requiring fieldwork and basic certifications. However, Wildlife Technicians typically have higher educational requirements and perform more technical tasks. Both roles are essential in wildlife conservation, with the Technician position often serving as a step up for those seeking more specialized responsibilities.

Can I get into wildlife conservation without a degree?

Wildlife Field Assistant roles often do not require a formal degree, but relevant experience, knowledge of local ecosystems, and practical skills such as data collection and equipment use are important. Certifications in first aid or conservation techniques can enhance employability, and on-the-job training is common for entry-level positions.

Can you work at a wildlife reserve?

Wildlife Field Assistants often work at wildlife reserves, gaining hands-on experience with conservation, animal monitoring, and habitat management. Employment may require physical fitness, outdoor skills, and sometimes certifications in safety or first aid. Working at a reserve typically involves fieldwork in natural environments and adherence to conservation protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Wildlife Field Assistant jobs?

For Wildlife Field Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Wildlife Field Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,629 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Avian Wildlife Conservation and Management

Wilmington, NC • On-site

The Wildlife Society
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about The Wildlife Societyexternal

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Teach approximately five courses per year, including courses such as Introduction to Environmental Sciences, Wildlife Field Methods for Conservation-Birds, and Avian Ecology and Management.

  • Maintain an active, applied, field-based research program that informs avian wildlife management and conservation, providing research opportunities for undergraduate and non-thesis graduate students.

  • Contribute to departmental, college, university, and professional service, and work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment.

Job description

Assistant Professor of Natural Resource ManagementUniversity of North Carolina Wilmington

College College of Science and Engineering - 323 College

Dept/School Environmental Sciences - 32351

Vacancy Number 16F-789

Position Number 653

Location of Workplace Main UNCW Campus

Brief Summary of Work for this Position

The Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of North Carolina Wilmington seeks to hire a nine-month tenure-track Assistant Professor of Avian Wildlife Conservation and Management starting 9 August 2027. The workload for this position is 50% teaching, 40% research, and 10% service.

This is not a remote position, and the candidate may need to teach both in person and online. The successful candidate is expected to teach 5 courses per year (fall and spring semesters) while maintaining research-active status. Courses taught will include Introduction to Environmental Sciences (EVS 195), Wildlife Field Methods for Conservation-Birds (EVS 440/541), Avian Ecology and Management (EVS 450/550), and one or more of the following courses:

  • EVS 410: Environmental Modeling
  • EVS 518: Fundamentals of Applied Environmental Research
  • EVS 519: Advanced Applied Environmental Research
  • EVS 540: Foundations of Environmental Conservation and Management

This position requires a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring students through applied coursework and research. Candidates must maintain an active, applied, field-based research program that informs avian wildlife management and conservation and provides meaningful research opportunities for undergraduate and non‑thesis graduate students. While supervision of thesis‑based master’s or doctoral students is not a primary expectation, such opportunities may be available through collaborations with other departments or the Center for Marine Science. Scholars focused on theory or basic biology/zoology/evolution need not apply.

The successful candidate will also contribute to departmental, college, university, and professional service and be expected to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment. Community‑engaged research and partnerships with relevant stakeholders are encouraged.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Candidates may be ABD but must have a doctoral degree, or equivalent, in Wildlife Management, Conservation, Environmental Sciences, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field by 1 August 2027.

Candidates must have experience teaching in a classroom setting, publishing in peer‑reviewed scientific journals, and presenting at conferences/symposia.

Recent doctoral graduates and post‑docs, academics with previous tenure‑track experience, and non‑academic professionals (e.g., nonprofit, federal or state government, or private sector careers) with a doctoral degree in a relevant field are encouraged to apply.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

N/A

Required Certifications or Licensure

No Required Certifications or Licensure

Primary Function of Organizational Unit

The Department of Environmental Sciences focuses on the relationships among the social, physical, chemical, and biological aspects of natural and built environments. The department offers an interdisciplinary curriculum, drawing upon the resources of many related fields to provide the rigorous analysis necessary to understand environmental problems and formulate environmentally‑sound solutions. Our curriculum inspires students to become active and engaged environmental stewards.

College/School Information

The College of Science and Engineering offers a variety of programs leading to Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees, as well as Doctor of Philosophy degrees in applied coastal and ocean sciences; pharmaceutical chemistry; integrative, comparative, and marine biology; and psychology degrees. The college also offers combined bachelor's/master's degree programs in information technology/computer science and information systems, computer science/computer science and information systems, and B.S. in mathematics/M.S. in mathematics. To implement its academic programs, the college provides instruction and research opportunities in the natural and behavioral sciences, information technology, data science, computer science, mathematics, pre‑engineering, and engineering. The eight academic departments in the college provide courses of study in each of these areas, in addition to interdepartmental programs in information technology, cybersecurity, and digital arts. A 2+2 in engineering; and 3+2 programs in computer science and electrical or computer engineering; and physics and electrical engineering, are also offered in the college. Post‑baccalaureate certificate programs in environmental studies, applied statistics, and geographic information science are also available.

CSE students work with distinguished faculty and scientists, use cutting edge technology, and conduct impactful research. Faculty‑directed research projects empower CSE students to apply what they learn inside the classroom and laboratory to real‑world situations and prepares them for a variety of careers or advanced study.

University Information

The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state's coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research and service. Widely acknowledged for its world‑class faculty and staff and continuously recognized at a national level for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking.

A public institution with nearly 20,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate‑and graduate‑level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to‑BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation’s only bachelor's degree program focused on coastal engineering.

The university's efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of “Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity” institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.

EEO Statement

UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents – except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.

Eligibility for Employment

Final candidates are subject to criminal&sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. UNC Wilmington participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

Special Notes to Applicants

Prior to the official appointment to the university, the candidate(s) selected for hire must be able to demonstrate eligibility to teach assigned courses by successfully meeting the credentialing requirements based on official transcripts and other documentation as required.

Position Type Permanent

Job Posting Date 08/21/2026

Job Close Date 11/05/2026

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