ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wildlife Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Defender of Wildlife

Senior Attorney

Washington, DC · On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE POSITION DESCRIPTION JOB TITLE: Senior Attorney SALARY: $160,000 - $180,000 FLSA: Exempt DEPARTMENT: Biodiversity Law Center LOCATION: Denver, CO, Washington, D.C., Remote ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWildlife JobsWildlife Jobs in Reston, VA

Wildlife information

See Reston, VA salary details

$26K

$67.6K

$132.1K

How much do wildlife jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife in Reston, VA is $67,566.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the best wildlife career?

The best wildlife career depends on individual interests and goals, but common options include wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, park ranger, and wildlife rehabilitator. These roles often require relevant degrees, fieldwork experience, and knowledge of ecology, with some positions demanding certifications or specialized training. Success in this field involves a passion for conservation and the ability to work outdoors in various environments.

What is the difference between Wildlife vs Conservation Biologist?

AspectWildlifeConservation Biologist
Required CredentialsBiology degree, fieldwork experienceBiology or environmental science degree, research skills
Work EnvironmentWildlife reserves, parks, field sitesResearch labs, field sites, policy settings
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, parksResearch institutions, NGOs, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on wildlife species and habitatsFocuses on protecting ecosystems and species conservation

Wildlife professionals often work directly with animals and their habitats, conducting field research and monitoring populations. Conservation Biologists focus on developing strategies to protect and restore ecosystems, often combining research with policy advocacy. While both roles aim to preserve nature, Wildlife roles are more species-specific, whereas Conservation Biologists take a broader ecosystem approach.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in wildlife conservation roles?

Professionals in wildlife conservation often encounter challenges such as working in remote or rugged locations, which can require adaptability and resilience. They may also face unpredictable weather, limited resources, and the need for collaboration with various stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and researchers. Navigating regulatory requirements, securing funding for projects, and managing human-wildlife conflicts are also frequent aspects of the role. Despite these challenges, the work is highly rewarding for those passionate about protecting ecosystems and biodiversity.

What careers work with wildlife?

Careers that work with wildlife include wildlife biologists, conservation scientists, park rangers, zoologists, and wildlife rehabilitators. These roles often require fieldwork, knowledge of ecology, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in biology, environmental science, or related fields.

What is a wildlife biologist?

Wildlife biologists are scientists who study animals and their habitats in the wild. They collect data on animal populations, behaviors, and ecosystems to understand how species interact with their environments. Their work often involves field research, conservation planning, and advising on policies that protect wildlife and their habitats. Wildlife biologists may work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or research institutions, and their efforts help maintain biodiversity and ecosystem health.

What are different types of wildlife careers?

Different types of wildlife careers include being a zoologist, wildlife scientist, park ranger, nature preservation security officer, ornithologist, and marine biologist. The duties of these positions vary significantly. For example, nature preservation security staff who patrol a wildlife sanctuary directly confront poachers and help prevent them from violating the security of the park, sometimes using physical force. Zoologists study animals and their natural habitats to collect and analyze data as well as develop reports, papers, and policy recommendations for their preservation. Many wildlife positions include a mix of academic research and administrative responsibilities.

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 solid background in biology, ecology, and environmental science, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field research equipment is essential for collecting and analyzing ecological data. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and presenting research findings. These competencies enable effective wildlife conservation, data-driven decision-making, and successful project outcomes in diverse natural environments.
More about Wildlife jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Wildlife jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Wildlife jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildlife jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Wildlife jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Wildlife job openings:

Wildlife jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,566 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Conservation and Wildlife Advocate

The Public Interest Network

Washington, DC • On-site

$39K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Conservation and Wildlife Advocate
Department: Program
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Washington, DC
Reporting To: Lisa Frank
Compensation: $39,750 - $55,000 / year
Description
Environment America has one mission: to protect the natural world. We're hiring a Conservation and Wildlife Advocate to work in Washington, DC to protect wildlife and wild places.
We share our planet with countless incredible creatures, from the grizzly on the ridgeline to the butterfly in our backyard. Many are on the brink of extinction. As an advocate with Environment America, you'll work with hunters and anglers, farmers, wildlife photographers and lawmakers from both parties to advance solutions to recover America's wildlife populations and the habitat they need to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
Environment America's Conservation and Wildlife Advocate will work to advance our policy goals in Washington, DC. This position requires excellent judgment and discretion and the ability to oversee significant projects. Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
  • Advocacy: Meet with members of Congress and federal government officials to advocate for strong environmental policies. Develop collaborative relationships with legislators and congressional staff on both sides of the aisle and federal agencies to advance our policy goals.
  • Coalition building: Serve as the Environment America voice in conservation coalitions. Recruit new partners who can help us win campaigns, including unlikely allies who might agree with us on one issue, even if we disagree on other issues.
  • Fundraising: Fund our campaigns and grow our impact by raising money from foundations and individual donors.
  • Media and communications: Write reports, fact sheets, news releases, blogs, op-eds, and other forms of communication to get our message in the media and heard by decision-makers and the public. Represent Environment America with reporters.
  • Campaign strategy: Develop campaign plans and tactics. Work creatively with our state and national leadership.
  • Staff recruitment and management: Build our team by recruiting and managing interns and participating in staff recruitment efforts. Potential to oversee staff.

Qualifications
A successful candidate will have excellent writing and public speaking skills; at least two years of professional full time experience in organizing, advocacy, campaigning or legislative work; be a solid team player; and have the passion and grit to do what it takes to get the work done. Top candidates will also have these qualities:
  • Up for a challenge. You have a bold vision of a greener world, but you know that lasting change-especially in gridlocked Washington, D.C.--often comes one challenging step at a time. You work hard to achieve your goals, whether that means hours of calling activists or monitoring middle-of-the-night Senate votes.
  • Ready to build a movement. The progress we're seeking can't be won in a single policy or election. You're excited to meet with Democrats, Republicans, farmers, business owners and anyone else you think might share our love of wildlife.
  • Organized and strategic. You can make plans for long-term success. You can balance multiple competing goals and policy priorities.

If this sounds like you, we hope you'll apply to join our team.
Details
Compensation and Benefits
The starting annual compensation range for this position is $39,750-$55,000 for a candidate with 2-8 years of experience. Candidates on the lower end of directly relevant experience should expect to be on the lower end of this range; candidates on the higher end of relevant experience are likely to be on the higher end of this range. Environment America offers an excellent benefits package. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.
Location
Washington, DC
Why work for Environment America? Here are ten reasons: https://environmentamerica.org/why-work-with-us/
Our Mission and Values
Environment America is part of The Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit https://environmentamerica.org/core-values/ for things you should know about our network when you apply.
Please do not use AI to help draft your cover letter or responses to our application questions. We want to know how you think and write.
Environment America is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply