Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.
Median pay: $76,780/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 1,400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Develop, or make recommendations on, management systems and plans for wildlife populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options.
• Inventory or estimate plant and wildlife populations.
• Inform and respond to public regarding wildlife and conservation issues, such as plant identification, hunting ordinances, and nuisance wildlife.
• Study animals in their natural habitats, assessing effects of environment and industry on animals, interpreting findings and recommending alternative operating conditions for industry.
• Disseminate information by writing reports and scientific papers or journal articles, and by making presentations and giving talks for schools, clubs, interest groups and park interpretive programs.
• Study characteristics of animals, such as origin, interrelationships, classification, life histories, diseases, development, genetics, and distribution.
• Perform administrative duties, such as fundraising, public relations, budgeting, and supervision of zoo staff.
• Check for, and ensure compliance with, environmental laws, and notify law enforcement when violations are identified.
What's the median pay for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?
The median pay for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists is $76,780 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?
Employment for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists is projected to change +1.6% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?
About 1,400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.