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Wildlife Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Government of the Virgin Islands

$61K - $64K/yr

Organizes and oversees the work of lower level personnel engaged in research studies and projects. Studies the distribution, habitats, life history and classification of wildlife, Collects, compiles ...

University of Pennsylvania

Posted Job Title Wildlife Diagnostics Technician Job Profile Title Research Specialist A Summary The Wildlife Diagnostics Technician supports the Wildlife Futures Program by managing wildlife ...

Commonwealth of Kentucky

Wildlife Biologist III

Hazard, KY · On-site

$47K - $71K/yr

Thecandidate will provide expertise in leading and conducting research and surveys on a specific ... Direct regional wildlife habitat and land management programs. * Execute open land, forest managing ...

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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 Aug 11, 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 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.

Are wildlife researchers in high demand?

Wildlife researchers are in moderate demand, with employment opportunities often tied to environmental conservation efforts, government agencies, and research institutions. Job growth can vary by region and specialization, and strong skills in data collection, analysis, and fieldwork are essential for success.

What do you need to be a wildlife researcher?

To become a wildlife researcher, a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is typically required. Fieldwork experience, strong observational skills, and knowledge of research methods and data analysis are also important; advanced positions may require a master's or doctoral degree.

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

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.
More about Wildlife Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildlife Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Wildlife Researcher job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Wildlife Researcher jobs? The top employers for Wildlife Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Wildlife Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildlife Researcher jobs include:
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 7% Internship, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci IV - 77907406

MyFlorida

Tallahassee, FL • On-site

$24.32/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

State Of Florida rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 50 rated states

Job description

Requisition No: 878327 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Fisheries & Wildlife Bio Sci IV - 77907406

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907406 

Salary:  $24.32, per hour 

Posting Closing Date: 08/21/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute - Center for Spatial Analysis

Fish and Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - OPS Position

$24.32 per hour

1875 E Orange Avenue

Tallahassee, FL

 Fish and Wildlife Research Institute - Center for Spatial Analysis

Fish & Wildlife Biological Scientist IV - OPS 77907406

Tallahassee, Florida - $24.32 per hour

Our organization:

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself.  The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

7 years professional experience in a closely related biological field or laboratory program can substitute for the required bachelor's degree is required. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences and three years of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences and two years of professional experience as described above; or A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional experience as described above can substitute for the required experience.

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications: A master's degree from an accredited college or university with major courses of study in one of the biological sciences and three years of professional experience as described above or

A doctorate from an accredited college or university with major course of study in one of the biological sciences.

Requirements:

Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate. 
 

Office hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Not eligible for Telework.

Responses to qualifying questions should be verifiable by skills and/or experience stated on the profile application/resume.  Information should be provided regarding any gaps in employment.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

Serve as Principal Investigator on statewide land cover mapping project. Use remotely sensed, photo-interpreted and ground-mapped data to update and edit the existing Cooperative Land Cover - statewide map, including various aspects of data preparation, production, and validation.  Use image processing software to classify medium resolution satellite imagery according to an established land cover classification schema. Compile classified data into a statewide data set.

Assist with FWC's ArcGIS Enterprise deployment by managing configuration and development of ArcGIS Experience Builder applications for the Tallahassee CSA office, and assisting with ArcGIS Online, adding users, and licensing.

Evaluate and conduct additional improvements to the Cooperative Land Cover map, such as inclusion of qualitative measures for high priority communities.  Consolidate and standardize.  Develop user interface for access/use by staff and partners.

Responsible for coordinating and collaborating with Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) staff on edits and updates to the Florida Cooperative Land Cover (CLC) map.  Coordinate with FNAI on review of semi-annual/annual updates of the CLC.  Work with FWC and FNAI to modify the land classification schema as determined necessary.

Responsible for maintaining and responding to input received from a dedicated email address established for comments on the Cooperative Land Cover Map

 

Provide technical support to FWC biologists and external users regarding interpretation and use of the Cooperative Land Cover map and associated classification schema.

Perform public outreach, as appropriate, and other duties as assigned including supervising OPS staff for special land cover
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Principles and practices of wildlife and fisheries biology, statistical analysis, natural resource management, GIS, cartography, and digital remote sensing. 

GIS database and application design, development and implementation. 

Scientific research procedure and techniques. 

Computer operations and the use of related software for GIS and Image processing.  Principles and practices used in manipulating ecological and environmental data to create cartographic depictions of species distributions. 

Ability to: Collect, record and analyze scientific data relating to biological sciences. 

Plan & coordinate work assignments.  Communicate effectively, orally, graphically, and in writing. 

Establish and maintain working relationships with FWRI staff, FWC staff and other government agencies. 

Travel out of area for several days at a time. 

Skil in: Technical writing and public speaking. 

The use and application of ArcGIS GIS software. 

Spatial and relational database design and management. 

Project management. 

Cartographic design. 

Ability to maintain a valid driver license.

Why should I apply?

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
*Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. .

Health Premiums $25.00- Single / $90.00- Family Biweekly

Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance

OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan

On the Job Trainings

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

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