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Zoology Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Smithsonian Institution

Museum Specialist

Landover, MD · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

Most positions require a particular subject-matter specialization, e.g., aeronautics, anthropology, art, geology, history, natural science, technology, biology, or zoology. In addition to the basic ...

Smithsonian

Animal Health Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

This position is located in the Department of Wildlife Health Sciences (WHS) at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park (NZP) in Washington, DC. More than one selection may be made from this ...

All JobsZoology JobsZoology Jobs in Reston, VA

Zoology information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

$24

$49

How much do zoology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoology in Reston, VA is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is zoology?

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, including their biology, behavior, physiology, classification, and distribution. Zoologists investigate various aspects of animal life, from molecular and cellular processes to interactions within ecosystems. This field plays a crucial role in understanding biodiversity, conservation, and the effects of environmental changes on animal populations. Careers in zoology can involve research, education, wildlife management, or work in zoos and aquariums.

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

To thrive as a Zoologist, you need a solid background in biological sciences, research methodology, and data analysis, usually supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in zoology or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software, GIS tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required for research and fieldwork. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help set outstanding zoologists apart. These skills are crucial for conducting accurate research, sharing findings, and contributing to conservation and scientific understanding.

What are some common challenges zoologists face when conducting field research?

Zoologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote habitats while conducting field research. Additionally, they may need to adapt to working long hours in isolated conditions and ensure strict adherence to ethical guidelines when interacting with wildlife. Effective teamwork and problem-solving skills are essential, as zoologists frequently collaborate with other researchers, conservationists, and local communities to achieve research objectives.

What is the difference between Zoology vs Marine Biology?

AspectZoologyMarine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Zoology, Biology, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in Marine Biology, Biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentZoos, research labs, wildlife reserves, universitiesOcean, coastal areas, research vessels, aquariums
Industry UsageWildlife conservation, research, educationMarine ecosystems, oceanography, conservation

Both zoologists and marine biologists study animals, but zoology focuses on terrestrial and freshwater animals, while marine biology specializes in oceanic and marine species. Their work environments and industry applications overlap but differ mainly in habitat focus.

Is zoology a good career?

Zoology is a scientific field focused on the study of animals and their behaviors, often requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in biology or related disciplines. Careers in zoology can include research, conservation, and education, with job prospects varying based on specialization and experience; advanced roles may require graduate degrees and fieldwork skills.

What careers come from zoology?

Zoology graduates can pursue careers such as wildlife biologists, zookeepers, conservation scientists, animal behaviorists, and research scientists. These roles often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of animal biology, with some positions needing advanced degrees or certifications. Opportunities exist in research institutions, zoos, aquariums, government agencies, and environmental organizations.

What jobs can I get with a zoology degree?

A zoology degree can lead to careers such as zoologist, wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, animal trainer, or museum curator. These roles often require fieldwork, research skills, and knowledge of animal behavior and ecology, with some positions requiring advanced degrees or certifications. Job opportunities are available in research institutions, zoos, aquariums, government agencies, and environmental organizations.

What jobs to do with zoology?

Zoology graduates can pursue careers as wildlife biologists, zoo curators, conservation scientists, animal behaviorists, and research scientists. These roles often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of animal biology, with some positions needing advanced degrees or certifications. Employment can be found in research institutions, zoos, aquariums, government agencies, and environmental organizations.

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

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

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

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

Zoology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoology job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,216 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Supervisory Research Zoologist

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Smithsonian Institution
Museums and Historical Sites • 5 - 10K employees

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 29 rated museums

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Smithsonian Institutionexternal

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Summary
The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), Washington, DC. with duty location in either Washington D.C. or Front Royal, VA.
More than one selection may be made from this announcement.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
The Supervisory Research Zoologist leads research groups and conducts research in one or several areas of expertise, including, but not limited to, using genomic and transcriptomic data to assess genetic diversity, adaptation, resilience and population history.
In this position, you will:
  • Lead the development of a multifaceted research program in conservation genomics that addresses a broad range of complex scientific questions and applied conservation challenges.
  • Conduct research using one or several advanced technologies and tools such as genomic, transcriptomic, environmental DNA (eDNA), and ancient DNA approaches to evaluate genetic diversity, population history, species distribution, abundance, diet, evolutionary processes, and conservation outcomes, while advancing bioinformatics tools and methods to inform conservation strategies.
  • Develop and communicate scientifically rigorous conclusions through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly contributions that advance the field of conservation genomics.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert and consultant to scientists, researchers, and professionals within Federal agencies, universities, laboratories, zoological parks, and research institutions on matters related to conservation genomics.
  • Supervise, direct, coordinate, and oversee the programs, functions, and initiatives performed by staff.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation
  • May need to complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer
  • Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

Conditions of Employment
Qualification requirements, including one year time-in-grade at the next lower grade level for promotion candidates, must be met within 30 days of the job announcement closing date. See the 'Required Documents' section for additional information.
For information on qualification requirements, see Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions viewable on OPM Website.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  1. Degree: zoology; or a related discipline or field of science that included at least 20 semester hours in zoology and related animal sciences.
    OR
  2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in zoology, or in a related discipline that included course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Graduate Education: To be qualifying, graduate study must have been in one of the major fields of zoology or have followed a curriculum or pattern of training that placed major emphasis on one of these disciplines or subject-matter fields, such as nematology or parasitology. Graduate study in related fields of science such as microbiology, medicine, veterinary medicine, or plant pathology that involved cross-training in zoology or one of the fields of zoology may also be qualifying, provided there was a sufficient amount of emphasis on zoology.
In addition to the basic qualification requirement above:
Experience: You qualify for this position if you have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 level in the Federal Service. For this position, specialized experience is defined as developing, planning, and implementing a science and conservation program, leading and supervising others that lead to advance the field of conservation genomics and related research areas.
Your resume must be no more than two (2) pages and should clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and specialized experience required for this position. Do not copy language directly from the vacancy announcement, as you will be deemed ineligible for consideration. Instead, provide detailed, descriptive information about your actual experience.
In addition to a two-page resume, please provide a Curriculum Vitae (CV) with your publications, grants, professional accomplishments, and other relevant qualifications and activities.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.
Or a Combination: Education and experience may be combined to meet the basic qualifications. For a full explanation of this option please see the Qualification Standards. Special Instructions for Foreign Education: If you are qualifying by education and/or you have education completed in a foreign college/university described above, it is your responsibility to provide transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study. For instructions on where to fax these documents, see the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
Additional information
This position is not included in the bargaining unit.
Recruitment Incentive: Recruitment incentive(s) may be authorized for this position. However, approval for incentives are contingent upon various availability. If authorized, certain incentives will require the incumbent to sign a service agreement to remain in the Federal government for a certain time period.
Note: This statement does not imply nor guarantee an incentive will be offered and paid.
Selections may be made for vacancies across the Smithsonian Institution (SI). By applying to this position, you agree to allow your application and other personal information to be shared with one or more SI hiring officials for employment consideration for same/similar positions within the location(s) identified in this announcement.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
The Federal Government offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Please see Benefits at https://www.si.edu/OHR/benefits for a complete description.
Flexible Spending Accounts - https://www.fsafeds.com/
Health Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.asp
Leave - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/index.asp
Life Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/life/index.asp
Long Term Care Insurance - http://www.ltcfeds.com
Retirement Program - https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/

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