How much does a Wildlife Biologist make?
Wildlife biologists study animals and their environments. They work to protect wildlife and manage natural resources. This career offers a range of salaries based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a wildlife biologist is around $63,527. This means most earn somewhere between $35,780 and $118,000 each year.
Most wildlife biologists fall into the middle of the salary range. About 22% earn between $43,255 and $50,729. Another 12.68% earn between $58,204 and $65,678. These figures show that with experience and the right skills, wildlife biologists can earn a good living. Higher salaries often come with more responsibility and specialized knowledge. Job seekers should consider these factors when aiming for higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Wildlife Biologist?
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $102,784
In Portland, a person studying animal life can find many green spaces to work. Companies like the Oregon Zoo provide great opportunities. The city's focus on sustainability makes it a good place for nature jobs.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $96,672
Seattle offers a mix of urban and natural environments. Here, you can work with organizations like the Woodland Park Zoo. The city’s parks and forests provide a rich setting for wildlife research.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $94,563
Sacramento provides a dynamic setting for those studying wildlife. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife offers many chances to work on wildlife projects. The city’s river and parks offer diverse habitats to study.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $86,548
San Diego's mild climate and unique ecosystems make it ideal for wildlife study. The city’s numerous wildlife reserves and the presence of companies like the San Diego Zoo offer ample research opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,438
Los Angeles offers a mix of urban and natural settings. Here, you can work with organizations like the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanic Garden. The city’s parks and wildlife corridors provide varied habitats for study.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $83,957
Anchorage provides a unique setting for wildlife work, with its cold climate and diverse ecosystems. Local companies and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game offer many chances to study wildlife.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $80,620
Salt Lake City offers a blend of urban and natural environments. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources offers many opportunities. The city’s parks and mountains provide diverse habitats for wildlife study.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $76,021
Pittsburgh provides a mix of urban and natural settings. The city’s parks and green spaces offer varied habitats. Local organizations provide chances to study wildlife in an urban context.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $68,271
Fresno offers a mix of agricultural and natural environments. The city’s parks and the nearby Sierra National Forest provide diverse habitats. Local organizations offer many wildlife research opportunities.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $47,467
Chico provides a small-town feel with access to nature. The city’s parks and the nearby forests offer varied habitats for study. Local universities and organizations provide chances to work on wildlife projects.
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What are the best companies a Wildlife Biologist can work for?
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ICF
Average Salary: $98,294
ICF offers exciting Wildlife Biologist positions with competitive salaries. They focus on ecological research and environmental consulting. ICF operates in many cities in the U.S. and internationally.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $85,856
AECOM provides various opportunities for Wildlife Biologists. They work on conservation projects and environmental assessments. They have offices in multiple states across the U.S. and in several countries.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $85,437
Arcadis offers Wildlife Biologist roles that include habitat restoration and species protection. Their team works in different regions of the U.S. and around the globe.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $83,846
GEI Consultants seeks Wildlife Biologists for diverse projects. They focus on wildlife management and conservation. They have offices in several states in the U.S.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $73,232
The State of Washington employs Wildlife Biologists for state parks and wildlife areas. They work on research and conservation efforts throughout Washington.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $63,133
The State of Alaska offers positions for Wildlife Biologists focusing on research and wildlife management. They operate in various locations across Alaska.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $61,278
The State of New Mexico provides jobs for Wildlife Biologists in state parks and wildlife reserves. They focus on conservation and research in various parts of New Mexico.
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Merjent
Average Salary: $61,063
Merjent offers roles for Wildlife Biologists in ecological assessments and conservation projects. They have offices in several states in the U.S.
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Sierra Pacific Industries
Average Salary: $47,807
Sierra Pacific Industries provides opportunities for Wildlife Biologists in forest management and conservation. They operate in multiple states, primarily in the western U.S.
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Pheasants Forever
Average Salary: $47,368
Pheasants Forever offers roles for Wildlife Biologists focused on habitat conservation and wildlife management. They work in various locations across the U.S.
How to earn more as a Wildlife Biologist?
To increase earnings as a wildlife biologist, consider these key factors. First, gaining more experience can lead to higher-paying positions. Biologists who spend more time in the field often see better compensation.
Second, acquiring specialized skills can also make a difference. Skills in data analysis, GIS mapping, or specific wildlife management techniques can set you apart. Third, pursuing advanced degrees can open up higher-paying opportunities. A master’s or Ph.D. often leads to more responsibility and better pay.
Additionally, consider working for organizations with higher budgets. Government agencies, large non-profits, and private companies with strong conservation goals often offer competitive salaries. Lastly, networking within the field can uncover higher-paying job openings. Connecting with professionals and attending industry conferences can lead to new opportunities.
Explore these avenues to enhance your earnings as a wildlife biologist.
Here are five factors to help you earn more:
- Experience: More time in the field often means higher pay.
- Specialized Skills: Skills in data analysis, GIS mapping, or wildlife management can increase your value.
- Advanced Degrees: A master’s or Ph.D. often leads to higher-paying roles.
- Employers: Work for organizations with larger budgets for better salaries.
- Networking: Connect with professionals to uncover higher-paying job opportunities.
