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How much does a Biologist make?

The average salary for a Biologist is $69,087 per year in the US.

Biologists explore the living world, studying plants, animals, and the environment. They often work in research, conservation, or healthcare. They can earn a range of salaries based on their level of experience and job role.

Most biologists fall into the middle range of salaries. For example, an entry-level biologist may earn around $37,934 a year. Those with more experience can earn higher salaries. Experienced biologists in the upper percentile can earn upwards of $132,585 annually. The average yearly salary for a biologist is about $69,087.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Biologist?

Job seekers looking to enter the biology field can find excellent opportunities in top-paying cities across the country. Washington, DC, leads with an average salary of $115,072, offering a high demand for biologists in research and policy roles. Other high-paying cities include San Diego and Seattle, with average salaries of $97,810 and $94,854, respectively, making them ideal for those seeking top compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Biologist jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $115,072 and Sacramento, CA with the lowest at $76,546.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $115,072
    In Washington, DC, a thriving job market for life sciences unfolds. The presence of key institutions like the National Institutes of Health draws many. Opportunities often involve impactful research with a focus on public health.
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  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $97,810
    San Diego offers a dynamic environment for scientific professionals. With a strong presence of biotech companies, work often involves cutting-edge research in areas like marine biology and pharmaceuticals.
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  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $94,854
    Seattle's vibrant tech scene extends to the field of biology. Companies like IDEO Bio and Ginkgo Bioworks provide unique opportunities. Here, biological research often intersects with technology.
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  4. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $87,114
    Portland offers a supportive environment for environmental research. The city's commitment to sustainability makes it an exciting place for those interested in ecology and conservation biology.
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  5. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $86,263
    Salt Lake City provides a great base for biology careers, especially in environmental science. The city's outdoor activities make it an appealing place for fieldwork and research.
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  6. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $84,999
    Los Angeles offers a diverse array of opportunities in biology. With a focus on environmental research, many professionals contribute to understanding the region's unique ecosystems.
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  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $83,840
    Boston's rich academic environment fosters a strong biology sector. The city's many universities provide numerous research opportunities, particularly in biotechnology and medicine.
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  8. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $77,762
    Honolulu provides unique opportunities for marine biology and environmental research. The city’s commitment to conservation offers exciting avenues for those interested in studying marine life and ecosystems.
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  9. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $77,253
    San Francisco combines urban life with a strong focus on environmental science. The city's tech-driven approach often intersects with biological research, offering innovative opportunities.
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  10. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $76,546
    Sacramento offers a mix of government and environmental research roles. The city's focus on public health and conservation creates a supportive environment for biological studies.
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What are the best companies a Biologist can work for?

Eli Lilly offers one of the top-paying roles for biologists, with an average salary of $118,983. This pharmaceutical giant provides a competitive salary and a chance to work in an innovative field. GAP Solutions, Inc. follows closely with an average salary of $109,312, offering biologists a robust compensation package in environmental consulting. Stantec also stands out with an average salary of $85,748 for biologists, making it another excellent choice for those seeking a stable and rewarding career. Environmental Resources Management and Dudek offer slightly lower average salaries of $81,097 and $77,442 respectively, but still provide valuable opportunities for professional growth in the biology sector.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Biologist jobs, highlighting Eli Lilly with the highest at $118,983 and State of Louisiana with the lowest at $66,442.
  1. Eli Lilly
    Average Salary: $118,983
    Eli Lilly offers exciting opportunities for biologists in various fields such as pharmaceuticals and medical research. This company operates globally, with major locations in the USA, UK, and Canada. Biologists here often work on groundbreaking research and development projects.


  2. GAP Solutions, Inc.
    Average Salary: $109,312
    GAP Solutions, Inc. provides a range of biologist roles in environmental consulting. They have offices in several states across the USA. Biologists at GAP Solutions often engage in field and lab work, contributing to sustainability and environmental protection projects.


  3. Stantec
    Average Salary: $85,748
    Stantec offers biologist positions in architecture, engineering, and consulting. Their locations span across the USA and Canada. Biologists at Stantec work on diverse projects, from environmental impact assessments to wildlife conservation efforts.


  4. Environmental Resources Management
    Average Salary: $81,097
    Environmental Resources Management (ERM) provides opportunities for biologists focused on environmental consulting and sustainability. They have a global presence with offices in many countries. Biologists here work on projects related to climate change, pollution control, and biodiversity.


  5. Dudek
    Average Salary: $77,442
    Dudek specializes in environmental and engineering consulting. They operate with offices in the USA and internationally. Biologists at Dudek often work on projects that involve ecological assessments, habitat restoration, and water quality analysis.


  6. AECOM
    Average Salary: $75,118
    AECOM offers biologist roles in environmental consulting and infrastructure projects. With offices around the world, biologists here engage in a variety of tasks, from environmental impact studies to urban planning and design.


  7. HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc
    Average Salary: $71,400
    HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. provides opportunities for biologists in environmental consulting and planning. They have offices in the USA. Biologists work on projects related to land use planning, environmental assessments, and natural resource management.


  8. Tetra Tech
    Average Salary: $71,389
    Tetra Tech offers diverse biologist roles in consulting and engineering. They have a global footprint with offices in multiple countries. Biologists here focus on projects in environmental consulting, water resources, and infrastructure development.


  9. State of Washington
    Average Salary: $69,387
    The State of Washington provides biologist positions focused on environmental protection and natural resource management. They operate throughout the state. Biologists here work on projects related to wildlife conservation, water quality, and habitat protection.


  10. State of Louisiana
    Average Salary: $66,442
    The State of Louisiana offers opportunities for biologists in environmental management and public health. With offices across the state, biologists here often work on projects related to water resources, wildlife management, and public health initiatives.

How to earn more as a Biologist?

Becoming a Biologist often leads to many rewarding career paths. This profession can offer a fulfilling career. To earn more in this field, consider these key factors. Making strategic choices can help increase your earning potential. A Biologist can explore various industries and specialize in different areas. This helps to find higher-paying opportunities.

One effective way to earn more is by gaining advanced degrees. A Master’s or PhD can open doors to higher-paying positions. These degrees can qualify a Biologist for research roles or leadership positions. Another factor is gaining experience in specialized fields. Specializations like genetics, marine biology, or microbiology can command higher salaries. Networking and professional development also play a role. Attending conferences and joining professional groups can lead to job opportunities. These connections can often result in better-paying positions. Finally, seeking roles in industries with high demand for Biologists can increase earnings. Fields like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental consulting often offer higher salaries.

Success in this field also depends on the ability to adapt and continue learning. Keeping up with the latest research and technologies can make a Biologist more valuable. Here are five factors to consider:

  1. Advanced Degrees: Earning a Master’s or PhD can lead to higher salaries.
  2. Specialization: Focus on high-demand areas to increase earning potential.
  3. Networking: Build connections through conferences and professional groups.
  4. Industry Choice: Work in sectors with high demand for Biologists.
  5. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest research and technologies.

Currently 109 Biologist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Biologist in the US?

Learn what a Biologist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Biologist today.
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Biologist
109 Job Openings