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Ornithology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Interior

$106K/yr

Degree: zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate field of biology that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in such wildlife courses as mammalogy, ornithology ...

Internships | Texas A&M University Kingsville

$106K/yr

Degree: zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate field of biology that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in such wildlife courses as mammalogy, ornithology ...

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How much do ornithology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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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ornithology jobs near you
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.

Wildlife Refuge Manager

US Department of the Interior

Roswell, NM • On-site

$89K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

You will serve as a Wildlife Refuge Managerwith US Fish and Wildlife Service.

Additional Vacancies: One or more positions may be filled from applications received under this announcement in the advertised office or other U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service offices in the local commuting area.
This position in located in Roswell, NM and the incumbent will be required to report to that location.

Qualifications:All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement - 08/19/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Competitive candidates must also meet Time-in-Grade requirements as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F.
For current Federal employees, if hours worked per week are not included on your resume, you must submit a non-award SF-50 as part of your application to be used to validate your work schedule and determine the amount of specialized experience that you will be granted. An award SF-50 will not be acceptable documentation for which to consider your amount of qualifying experience. For periods of time that reflect military service, the DD-214 or Statement of Service is sufficient to meet the work schedule requirement as the service dates will be reflected. For all other applicants who are not current federal employees, your resume must state either "full-time" (or "40 hours a week") or "part-time" with the number of hours worked per week to ensure proper crediting of specialized experience.

Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
Basic Educational Requirement AND Specialized Experience for the series to which you are applying.
Basic Education Requirement:
Possess a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited college or university in zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate field of biology that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in such wildlife courses as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, or wildlife management; 3 semester hours in botany; and 3 semester hours in conservation biology, OR Possess a combination of education from an accredited college or university and specialized experience - courses equivalent to a major in one of the fields described in A above that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in wildlife courses such as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, or wildlife management; 3 semester hours in botany; and 3 semester hours in conservation biology plus appropriate experience or additional education, OR Previously occupied a position in the GS-0485 series prior to December 3, 2010, and met the basic education requirement of the previous qualification standard. Previous standard: bachelor's or higher degree with major in zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate field of biology, that includes 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in wildlife; and 9 semester hours in botany. You must submit a copy of your SF-50 (Personnel Action), dated prior to Dec 3, 2010, showing that you held a position in the GS-0485 series.
Minimum Qualification [GS-12]
Specialized experience may include: 1) Prepares proposals for developmental/improvement projects (to include timeframes and costs) for the assigned Refuge and submits for review/approval during annual budget cycle, 2) Recognizes emerging conflicts with refuge management objectives and facilitates collaborative problem-solving with partners to reconcile differing interests and achieve mutually supported conservation outcomes. 3) Plans and administers the Refuge's public relations/public use program, interpretive and educational programs, hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational management activities, 4) Develops and implements short to long-range plans, annual work plans, budgets and work schedules. 5) Administers the facilities and equipment management program. Develops various work plans and organizes projects covering construction, repair and maintenance of equipment, buildings, roads, trails, fences, dikes, and other infrastructure.

Volunteer Experience: 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.Education:This position does not allow substituting education for experience.
This position has a mandatory education requirement.
You must submit a copy of your transcript(s) to support claimed education if substituting education for experience. Transcripts must include your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, and date the degree was conferred, if applicable. A typed list of courses, grades, semester/quarter hours, GPA, etc. will not be accepted. Non-submission may result in being rated not qualified for the position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.
Foreign Education: To receive credit for education completed outside the United States, you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education has been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualificationsEmployment Type: OTHER

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