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Science

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

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 salary

$72,860

Typical range

$48k – $113k

Job outlook

+2% (about average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

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Education

Typical entry: Bachelor's degree

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Typical progression

  1. Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists Intern

    Internship

    $36,000

    ~4 mos to advance

  2. Junior Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

    Entry / Junior

    $48,240

    ~2 yrs to advance

  3. Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

    Established

    $72,860

    ~3 yrs to advance

  4. Senior Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

    Senior

    $93,105

Internships are a common on-ramp here — they speed up landing that first role and improve your odds, which is why the Safe and High-ceiling plans build one in.

Key skills

A typical day

  • •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.

Fields of study

Any field

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