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Ornithology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talent Torch

£45K/yr

Senior Ecologist (Ornithology) - 1,600 Placement Bonus Location: Perth or Glasgow, Scotland (Hybrid Available) Salary: Up to 45,000 DOE 1,600 Placement Bonus - See details below. Make a real impact ...

Slrconsulting

Associate Ornithologist

Fontana, CA · Hybrid

While the focus is on ornithology, we do not pigeonhole our ecologists - if you have additional ecological skills (e.g. protected species, botany), we actively encourage you to continue developing ...

Cornell University

Backend Software Engineer

Ithaca, NY · On-site

About the Cornell Lab of Ornithology The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a globally recognized leader in technology, data management, and large-scale citizen science supporting birds and biodiversity ...

Mass Audubon

Field Teacher, Adult Education

Lincoln, MA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Broad natural history background with content expertise in one or more specialties (ornithology, art, etc.) * Ability to effectively lead safe adult education experiences * Experience teaching adult ...

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How much do ornithology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for ornithology in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ornithology?

An ornithology job involves the study of birds, including their behavior, ecology, and conservation. Ornithologists may work in research, wildlife conservation, environmental consulting, or education. They often conduct fieldwork to observe birds in their natural habitats, analyze data, and contribute to conservation efforts. Some ornithologists work for government agencies, universities, or nonprofit organizations. A strong background in biology, ecology, and data analysis is typically required for this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ornithology?

To thrive in ornithology, you need a solid background in biology or ecology, strong observational and data analysis skills, and often an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with field research tools (such as binoculars, banding equipment, and GIS software), statistical analysis programs, and proper fieldwork certifications are commonly required. Skills like attention to detail, patience, critical thinking, and effective communication help ornithologists excel when interacting with both data and colleagues. These abilities are essential to conducting rigorous research, advancing scientific understanding of birds, and communicating important findings to the broader community.

What does a typical week look like for someone working in ornithology?

A typical week for an ornithologist may involve a mix of fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration with colleagues. Early mornings are often spent observing, tracking, or banding birds in their natural habitats, followed by data entry and analysis using specialized software back in the lab or office. Ornithologists frequently meet with team members to discuss research findings, coordinate field schedules, or plan conservation initiatives. Depending on the role, you might also be involved in writing research reports, grant applications, or presenting your work at scientific meetings. This variety keeps the work engaging and offers ample opportunities to develop both scientific and collaborative skills.

Do ornithologists make a lot of money?

Ornithologists typically earn a moderate income, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and employment sector. According to industry data, the median annual salary is around $60,000, but those in research or academia may earn less, while those in government or consulting can earn more. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can improve earning potential, but overall, ornithology is often considered a passion-driven rather than highly lucrative career.

Does ornithology pay well?

Ornithology is a specialized field within biology, and salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment sector. Typically, ornithologists working in academia, research institutions, or government agencies earn moderate salaries, often supplemented by grants or additional funding, with higher earnings possible for those in senior or administrative roles. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced professionals with advanced degrees and fieldwork skills can earn higher wages.

What jobs are in ornithology?

Jobs in ornithology include research scientist, avian biologist, conservation biologist, bird bander, and wildlife technician. These roles often involve fieldwork, data collection, and analysis of bird populations, and may require specialized knowledge of bird species and ecological methods.
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Infographic showing various Ornithology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, 17% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Naturalist- Japan Ornithology Focus Only

Lindblad Expeditions

Charleston, WV • Remote

$310/day

Contractor

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

WHO WE ARE
Lindblad Expeditions is a true pioneer in Expedition Travel. From taking the first citizen explorers to Antarctica in 1966, opening the Galapagos and Easter Island to tourism in 1967, leading the first tourist expedition through the Northwest Passage in 1984, and launching our innovative partnership with National Geographic in 2004, we're now taking almost 30,000 guests a year to some of the world’s most remote and pristine locations on our fleet of 20 ships, and are committed to ensuring our guests experience the “Exhilaration of Discovery”.

SUMMARY

This position supports the expedition as the expert and specialist in natural history for particular regions and itineraries around the world based on subject matter expertise. Additionally, the position will work with the rest of the Field Staff in the delivery of the program and guest experience on a daily basis.  

The position should expect to work varying hours each day, based on the itinerary. The position is responsible for creating and presenting engaging presentations and recaps, lead guests on off-ship activities, provide in-the-field interpretation, and assist with general care of Field Staff equipment and spaces. It is essential that this person have excellent social skills as they will be expected to dine with guests and work in a multinational environment and live in close quarters.   

 
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The Japan ornithology focused Naturalist supports the expedition as the expert and specialist in ornithology for our voyages. For this role, we are looking for candidates with expertise specifically in ornithology of Japan, and can only consider applicants who meet the following requirements. Please do not apply if you a do not have Japan ornithology expertise and experience in the Expedition Cruising industry.
SPECIFIC EXPERTISE- ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTRACT
  • Focus on Japan ornithology knowledge and experience communicating to a variety of audiences.
  • Communicates complex ornithology related concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, ranging from small groups to large audiences.
  • Experience leading educational hikes and interactive programs focused on ornithology in Japan.
  • Creatively engages with guests and shares knowledge in ways that are personable, comfortable, and that inspire continued learning opportunities and discussion.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • The position must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Additional duties may be added at any time.  

  • Consistently represent Lindblad Expeditions with integrity and professionalism.  

  • Lead or assist with operations such as hiking, inflatable boat tours, kayak, stand up paddleboard, snorkel, cross country ski, and snowshoe operations, as well as coach tours, cultural/culinary/historical tours or other planned activities in the voyage itinerary. 

  • Offer relevant and engaging in-the-field and on board interpretation to guests throughout the voyage.  

  • Participate in evening recaps to highlight guests’ daily experiences.  

  • Prepare several PowerPoint (or similar) presentations of 30-40 minutes in length, to highlight particular and relevant themes specific to the voyage.  

  • Respond to on board and in the field requests in a timely manner and remain highly visible to guests throughout the voyage.  

  • Mitigate guest concerns and complaints as best as possible and bring them to the attention of the Expedition Leader or Assistant Expedition Leader, as needed.  

  • On more culturally-focused itineraries, accompany guests ashore with local guides, and act as the representative of Lindblad Expeditions. While ashore, position should monitor for quality control of these excursions and report any concerns to Expedition Leader or Assistant Expedition Leader.  

  • Eat meals with guests and make an effort to dine with a variety of people over the course of each voyage.  

  • Participate in on board duties related to the guest experience, such as monitor wildlife, clean Field Staff gear and spaces, deliver communications to guests, create on board educational materials, assist the NAT/CPI with photo collection at the end of a voyage, assist the AEL/BCC with duties (i.e., inventory, organization), capture and submit daily expedition photos, assist with luggage movement, support at hospitality suite or other off-ship venues.  

  • Participate in physically demanding settings in diverse weather conditions and varying temperatures, which may include operation of inflatable boats for several hours per day, hike over uneven terrain for distances of three miles or more, manage snorkel activities in deep water, and/or lead kayak excursions.  

  • Using the English language, this person must have the ability to read, write, and comprehend policies, legal guidelines, correspondence, and memos. Must also possess the ability to effectively communicate--both in writing and orally--with a professional demeanor. 

ELIGIBILITY FOR CONTRACT

  • CPR & First Aid Certified (higher level of training preferred). 

  • Bachelor’s degree or four years of work experience in related industry.  

  • Full mobility of all limbs and the ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and lift and/or move up to 50 pounds as needed. In the field, this position will participate in field excursions, including driving inflatable boats for several hours per day, hikes over uneven terrain for up to 3 miles, and kayaking up to 3 miles.  

  • In-depth knowledge of destination and previous experience guiding or working in destination.  

  • A team-player with excellent training skills and a proven educator.  

  • Works well independently and is a self-starter.  

  • Strong communicator with individuals and groups, even-tempered demeanor, and remains calm under pressure.  

  • Must be able to handle multiple tasks at one time with keen attention to detail.  

  • Possess general comfort with public speaking.  

  • Possess excellent problem-solving skills, the ability to make sound decisions quickly, and exercise good judgment.  

  • Strongly preferred - Experience driving vessels with outboard engines.  

  • Strongly preferred - Merchant Mariner Credential of 25 tons or greater, RYA certificate, or equivalent.  

  • Some itineraries may have additional required credentials or trainings.  

  • Strongly preferred - Experienced and adaptable in diverse geographic regions.

REQUIRED FOR CONTRACT

  • Promotion/Sales- The position must become familiar with the company philosophy and various programs offered by National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions. They should be able to address and field questions from guests regarding the various programs offered.  

  • Conservation/Sustainability- The position should become familiar with National Geographic- Lindblad Expeditions conservation and sustainability programs and be able to discuss the efforts in any itinerary where scheduled.  

  • Inflatable Boat Operations- The position should be prepared to assist with many aspects of inflatable boat operations for shore excursions. Familiarity with inflatable boats, such as Zodiacs, and ability to drive is a strong preference. If a US-citizen, a USCG license to drive inflatable boats is preferred.  

  • Safety- The position should be prepared to participate in on-board safety training, meetings and drills, including abandon ship and fire drills. Will also participate in shore-based education as required by the Company. 

What we offer:
Daily rate for this contract position: $310/daily
Travel Expenses Paid
Communication Skills 
Using the English language, this person must have the ability to read, write, and comprehend policies, legal guidelines, correspondence, and memos.   Must also possess the ability to effectively communicate--both in writing and orally--with a professional demeanor. 
 
PHYSICAL DEMANDS 
While performing the duties of this position, this person is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. This person will also be required to write and type. Occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The physical demands per position are described in the Job Analysis sheet and are available to all applicants upon request.  
 
COMPENSATION STATEMENT
Lindblad Expeditions determines the pay for contracts and positions using local, national, and industry-specific survey data. We evaluate external equity and the cost of labor/prevailing wage index in the relative marketplace for jobs directly comparable to jobs within our company. Our posted daily range is based on national data and may be refined for a candidate's region/town/cost of living.
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT
At Lindblad Expeditions, we simply could not do our work without the diverse kaleidoscope of humanity that creates and delivers our remarkable offerings across the planet. As a Company that respects and celebrates the inherent diversity in the places we explore, we recognize the need to mirror that same diversity and all the interconnected perspectives within our organization. We are committed to building a community of different genders, races, ages, sexual orientations, chosen identities, and countries of origin where every person brings their whole self to work and whose skills, talents, and abilities are valued. We believe we can explore further and in a more meaningful way by actively creating a more diverse and inclusive organization where everyone feels they belong.
 
Lindblad Expeditions is an equal-opportunity employer. Individuals seeking a contract or employment at Lindblad Expeditions are considered without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetics, marital status, pregnancy, unemployment status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or veteran status.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.