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Wildlife Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do wildlife researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wildlife researcher?

A wildlife researcher studies animals and their habitats to understand their behavior, populations, and ecology. They often conduct fieldwork, collect data, and use tools like GPS and cameras, typically requiring knowledge of biology and environmental science. This role may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions and obtaining relevant certifications or permits.

What are some common challenges wildlife researchers face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Wildlife researchers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote study sites. Managing equipment failures and ensuring personal safety while working around wild animals are also frequent concerns. To address these challenges, researchers typically undergo rigorous field training, use robust gear, and collaborate closely with local guides or teams. Effective planning, adaptability, and strong communication skills are essential for overcoming obstacles and ensuring successful data collection.

What is the highest paying job working with wildlife?

The highest paying jobs working with wildlife are often in specialized roles such as wildlife biologists, conservation managers, or zoological directors, with salaries exceeding $80,000 to over $150,000 annually for senior or managerial positions. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive field experience, and strong leadership skills, often working in research institutions, government agencies, or private conservation organizations.

What is the difference between Wildlife Researcher vs Conservation Biologist?

AspectWildlife ResearcherConservation Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Conservation Biology, Ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research labs, data analysisFieldwork, policy advocacy, community engagement
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesEnvironmental NGOs, government agencies, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonWildlife Researcher vs Conservation Biologist

Wildlife Researchers focus on studying animal species and ecosystems through fieldwork and data analysis, while Conservation Biologists work to protect and restore wildlife populations and habitats, often involving policy and community efforts. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their primary objectives and work settings.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In the field of biology, roles such as biomedical directors, pharmaceutical research managers, and senior environmental consultants often have salaries exceeding $100,000. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong project management skills, often working in corporate, government, or research institutions.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Researcher, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, and statistical analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree in wildlife science or a related field. Familiarity with field data collection tools, GPS technology, GIS software, and statistical analysis programs like R or SPSS is essential. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable accurate data collection, effective analysis, and meaningful contributions to wildlife conservation and management efforts.

What does a wildlife researcher do?

A wildlife researcher studies animals and their habitats to gain a better understanding of their behavior, ecology, and population dynamics. They often conduct fieldwork, collect and analyze data, and use their findings to help conserve species and ecosystems. Their work may involve tracking animals, observing their interactions, and collaborating with conservation organizations or government agencies. Wildlife researchers also publish their results in scientific journals and may participate in educational outreach. Their research helps inform conservation policies and management practices.

How can I become a wildlife researcher?

To become a wildlife researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is required, often followed by advanced degrees for specialized roles. Gaining field experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects is important, along with developing skills in data collection, analysis, and use of research tools. Certifications in wildlife handling or conservation can also enhance prospects in this career.
More about Wildlife Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildlife Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Wildlife Researcher job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Wildlife Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wildlife Researcher jobs are:
Wildlife Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Undergraduate Researcher - ACNC/SOLUR Applied Wildlife Research Training Program

Undergraduate Researcher - ACNC/SOLUR Applied Wildlife Research Training Program

The Phoenix Zoo

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description
6 Arizona Center for Nature Conservation (ACNC)/Phoenix Zoo
& ASU School of Life Sciences Undergraduate Research (SOLUR) Program
Position Description
Position Title: Undergraduate Researcher - ACNC/SOLUR Applied Wildlife Research Training Program
Department: ACNC/Phoenix Zoo Field Conservation Research Department (FCRD)
Supervisor: Kinley Ragan, MS, FCRD Field Research Project Manager
FLSA Status: Part Time, Seasonal
Pay: For Fall 2026 the stipend payment provided by ASU is paid biweekly and will be prorated based on the start date.
Duration/hours: Fall 2026 program duration is from hire date to December 4th, 2026. Number of hours will vary with project workload, but participants are expected to average 10 hours per week (150 hours/semester minimum). Occasional weekend field trips lasting 2-4 days may occur. This position will be majority in-person with the flexibility to work remotely on occasion and as needed.
Apply By: Application closes 7/13/26
General Statement:
The ACNC/SOLUR Applied Wildlife Research Training Program, Undergraduate Researcher position enters into a mentorship with ACNC/Phoenix Zoo researchers conducting in situ wildlife research with the Zoo's Field Conservation Research Department (FCRD) and will also have access to Arizona State University School of Life Sciences (SoLS) researchers. The Undergraduate Researcher is exposed to all aspects of the scientific method, including observation, experimental design, and data collection and analysis, while drawing on the academic expertise of ASU faculty and the species conservation expertise of ACNC/Phoenix Zoo staff. Specifically, the Undergraduate Researcher will work with ACNC staff on applied wildlife conservation projects including wildlife camera data management supporting ongoing research on jaguars and other threatened species. This research has the potential to become a Barrett Honor's thesis (or capstone/other project) and/or could continue into Spring 2027.
Essential Duties:
  1. Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive, and professional) working attitude and appearance.
  2. Review and summarize relevant scientific literature, as directed, to help guide research design.
  3. Design and carry out applied research under the supervision and direction of the Field Project Research Manager. Apply appropriate data analysis techniques to quantify collected data and participate in the preparation of a manuscript or report about the research.
  4. Participate in appropriate field conservation/research activities as assigned, under the supervision of Phoenix Zoo staff.
  5. Interact with both volunteers and Learning & Engagement staff to support designated public experiences and other communication activities.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technological developments.)
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
1. High school diploma or equivalent required.
2. Enrollment at ASU as a full-time undergraduate (12.0 hours or more per semester) with a major in the School of Life Sciences.
3. Completion of at least 24 hours of college coursework.
4. Keen attention to detail and computer file/data management skills.
5. Willingness and ability to participate in multi-day field work, including overnight camping in remote areas.
6. Ability to work well in groups and independently.
7. Ability to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces.
8. Ability to work indoors and outside, often in extreme weather conditions.
9. Ability to distinguish between different species of mammals and birds using camera-trap images.
10. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, and clear a tuberculosis test.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Demonstrated interest in wildlife research and conservation.
2. Previous research experience.
3. Experience with wildlife cameras, photography, native Arizona wildlife and plants.
4. Camping and/or hiking experience.
5. Graduating Dec 2026 or after.
Additional Details/Requirements:
  • Candidates must complete the ACNC/Phoenix Zoo application by the posted deadline. See https://www.phoenixzoo.org/careers/
    • A cover letter explaining interest in the program and any experience with research and/or conservation efforts must be submitted within the application.
    • An unofficial transcript must be submitted with the application.
  • The accepted candidate will also need to apply for a SOLUR Scholar position through the ASU School of Life Sciences Undergraduate Research Program. Contact SOLUR@asu.edu for more information.

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