What Is an Endangered Species Biologist?

Written by Dr. Marcus Hale, PhD, Last Updated: January 29, 2026

Collage of endangered and threatened wildlife species including tigers, elephants, polar bears, and primates studied by conservation biologists

Endangered species biologists study and protect threatened wildlife through field research, breeding programs, and conservation policy. These specialists earn a median salary of $72,860 annually and work for government agencies, conservation organizations, and research institutions. The field is projected to grow 2% through 2034, adding approximately 300 positions as conservation efforts expand globally.

Studying life promotes understanding of the world around us. Biologists examine living organisms-plants and animals-to understand how they function, evolve, and interact with their environment. While general biologists might study any living organism, endangered species biologists focus exclusively on life forms currently threatened with extinction.

Your work in this field directly impacts conservation outcomes. You'll investigate why particular species face threats, whether from habitat loss, climate change, human activity, or natural pressures. You'll answer critical questions: What's causing this population decline? Can we reverse these trends? What interventions will actually work? This specialization requires deep knowledge of federal and international laws that define "threatened" and "endangered" status, along with the scientific rigor to document and protect vulnerable populations.

What Does an Endangered Species Biologist Do?

Endangered species biologists spend their days balancing field work with laboratory analysis and policy advocacy. Your typical week might include collecting population data in remote habitats, analyzing genetic samples to assess species diversity, and preparing recovery plans for regulatory review. The work is rarely routine-one day you're tracking radio-collared wolves through mountainous terrain, the next you're testifying at a public hearing about critical habitat designation.

The role centers on understanding threats at multiple scales. You'll study individual animal behavior to identify stressors, examine ecosystem dynamics to reveal disruptions in food webs, and review regional development plans to anticipate habitat fragmentation. This multidisciplinary approach means collaborating with wildlife biologists, geneticists, land managers, and policy experts. Field research often follows seasonal patterns-breeding season might require intensive monitoring, while winter months focus on data analysis and grant writing.

Documentation is central to the work. Every observation contributes to the scientific record that guides management decisions. You'll maintain detailed field notes, photograph evidence of habitat conditions, and compile datasets that span years or decades. This longitudinal perspective helps distinguish natural population fluctuations from genuine decline trends. Your reports become the foundation for legal protections, funding allocations, and international conservation treaties.

Research and Monitoring

Field research takes you into diverse environments, including aquatic habitats, forests, grasslands, and coastal zones. You'll deploy camera traps to document elusive species, conduct population surveys using standardized protocols, and collect biological samples for genetic or toxicological analysis. Modern conservation increasingly relies on technology: GPS tracking reveals migration routes, environmental DNA sampling detects species presence without direct observation, and satellite imagery tracks habitat changes over time.

Breeding and Recovery Programs

When wild populations reach critically low numbers, captive breeding becomes essential. Working with zoos, aquariums, and specialized facilities, you'll develop breeding strategies that maintain genetic diversity. This involves understanding complex genetics-avoiding inbreeding while preserving locally adapted traits. Success stories like the California condor and black-footed ferret recovery programs demonstrate how coordinated breeding efforts can pull species back from the brink of extinction.

Policy and Advocacy

Scientific findings mean little without translation into action. You'll prepare documentation for Endangered Species Act listings, testify at regulatory hearings, and work with land managers to implement protective measures. This requires explaining technical findings to non-scientists: why a seemingly healthy population might be genetically compromised, or how seemingly minor habitat modifications could disrupt critical breeding behavior. The ability to communicate science clearly often determines whether conservation recommendations become policy.

Where Does an Endangered Species Biologist Work?

Most endangered species biologists work within government structures. Federal agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the National Park Service employ specialists to manage protected species within their jurisdictions. State wildlife departments hire biologists for regional conservation programs, particularly for game species and flagship animals such as state-designated threatened species.

Conservation happens beyond government agencies. Major nonprofits-The Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund, Defenders of Wildlife-employ field biologists for hands-on conservation projects. These roles often focus on specific ecosystems or species groups and receive funding through grants and donations. International organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) coordinate global assessment efforts and provide technical expertise to developing nations.

Academic positions blend research with teaching. University-based biologists conduct long-term studies while mentoring graduate students. These roles typically require a PhD and involve securing competitive research grants. Lab work dominates during certain seasons-analyzing samples, processing data, writing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals. The academic path offers intellectual freedom but requires entrepreneurial skills in funding acquisition.

Private-sector opportunities exist but differ from those in public service. Environmental consulting firms hire biologists to conduct threatened species surveys for development projects. You'll assess whether proposed construction impacts protected species and recommend mitigation strategies. Resource extraction companies-forestry, mining, energy-sometimes employ in-house biologists to ensure regulatory compliance. While less directly conservation-focused, these roles influence how industries operate in sensitive habitats.

International fieldwork appeals to some specialists. Conservation organizations deploy biologists to biodiversity hotspots worldwide, including tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and savanna ecosystems. These positions might involve training local conservationists, conducting rapid biodiversity assessments, or monitoring transboundary wildlife populations. Extended periods abroad require cultural adaptability alongside scientific expertise.

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Endangered Species Biologist Salary & Compensation

The Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies endangered species biologists as zoologists and wildlife biologists. As of 2024, the median annual salary was $72,860. However, compensation varies significantly based on experience level, employer type, and geographic location.

Career Level Typical Salary Range Experience Required
Entry-Level Wildlife Technician $40,000 - $50,000 0-2 years, Bachelor's degree
Field Biologist $55,000 - $70,000 2-5 years, specialized skills
Senior Biologist/Project Lead $75,000 - $95,000 5-10 years, often a Master's degree
Program Director/Principal Investigator $100,000 - $140,000+ 10+ years, a PhD is often required

Federal government positions typically offer structured pay scales with regular step increases and comprehensive benefits. The General Schedule (GS) system ranges from GS-7 for entry-level positions to GS-13 or higher for senior scientists. Geographic locality adjustments mean biologists in high-cost areas like California or Alaska earn more than the national median. State positions vary widely-some states pay competitively with federal scales, while others offer lower salaries offset by lower living costs.

Nonprofit organizations generally pay below government rates but attract candidates through mission-driven work. Compensation packages might include benefits such as flexible schedules, international travel opportunities, or support for research publications. Academic positions offer intellectual autonomy and opportunities for student interaction, though starting assistant professor salaries often lag behind government equivalents. Consulting firms sometimes offer higher base salaries but expect significant travel and may lack the job security of government tenure.

Job Outlook & Career Growth

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2% employment growth for zoologists and wildlife biologists between 2024 and 2034, adding approximately 300 positions over the decade. This growth rate is slower than the average for all occupations, reflecting constrained government budgets and limited expansion in conservation funding. With approximately 18,200 positions nationwide, competition for openings remains significant-many candidates pursue these careers for conservation reasons rather than financial incentives.

The modest growth projection shouldn't discourage committed candidates. Turnover from retirements and career changes creates ongoing opportunities beyond the creation of new positions. Entry-level technician roles remain accessible to recent graduates willing to accept temporary, seasonal work. The key challenge lies in transitioning from technician positions to permanent professional roles, which typically require advanced degrees and several years of diverse field experience.

Climate change continues to drive demand for expertise on endangered species despite slow overall growth. As species ranges shift and ecosystem disruptions intensify, understanding and managing threatened populations becomes more urgent. Emerging specializations include climate adaptation planning, assisted migration strategies, and resilience assessment. Biologists who combine ecological knowledge with climate modeling skills position themselves well for the limited number of available positions.

Geographic hotspots for employment include states with extensive public land holdings, such as California, Alaska, Washington, Colorado, and Montana. Coastal states with marine conservation priorities also concentrate opportunities-federal hiring centers near major Fish and Wildlife Service offices and National Park complexes. Urban areas with major zoos or research universities offer academic and captive-breeding positions, though these account for smaller employment shares. Geographic flexibility dramatically improves career prospects-willingness to relocate expands your opportunity pool considerably.

Realistic expectations help navigate this competitive field. Plan for an extended job search, potentially applying to dozens of positions before securing interviews. Temporary positions and contract work often precede permanent employment. Building a diverse skill set-combining field expertise with GIS proficiency, statistical analysis, grant writing, and policy knowledge-makes you competitive for the limited openings. Professional networking through conferences, volunteer work, and collaborative projects often proves as important as formal qualifications in landing positions.

Education Requirements & Career Pathway

Most endangered species biologists begin their journey with a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, wildlife biology, or environmental science. Your undergraduate years should emphasize coursework in genetics, ecology, animal behavior, and conservation biology. Don't neglect statistics and research methods-quantitative skills set competitive candidates apart. Field courses and summer research experiences provide practical skills that classroom learning alone cannot teach.

Strategic undergraduate planning accelerates career entry. Seek internships with federal agencies, state wildlife departments, or conservation nonprofits. Volunteer for faculty research projects involving fieldwork. Join relevant student organizations and attend professional conferences. These experiences build your network, demonstrate commitment beyond academics, and help you discover which aspects of conservation work resonate most strongly.

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The Master's Degree Decision

A Master's degree is often preferred for professional-level positions, though some roles may be open to candidates with a bachelor's degree and significant field experience. Graduate school allows specialization in endangered species management, conservation biology, or wildlife ecology. You'll conduct original research that results in a thesis and develop expertise in a specific system or species. Choose an advisor whose research aligns with your interests and who maintains active collaborations with potential employers.

Requirements vary considerably by position and employer. Federal agencies sometimes hire bachelor's degree holders for entry-level permanent positions if candidates demonstrate exceptional field skills and relevant experience. State agencies and nonprofits show more variation-some prioritize graduate credentials, others value practical expertise equally. Review job announcements in your target sector carefully to understand actual qualification patterns rather than assuming universal requirements.

Funding is typically available through teaching or research assistantships, making graduate school financially viable. The 2-3 year commitment provides time to publish research, present at conferences, and develop professional relationships. Many endangered species biologists credit graduate fieldwork with teaching skills and building resilience essential for career success. Geographic flexibility helps-willingness to relocate for graduate school and subsequent positions expands opportunities considerably.

The PhD Path

Doctoral degrees suit specific career goals, such as academic positions, high-level research leadership, or policy analysis roles. If you aspire to direct major conservation programs, mentor graduate students, or shape national policy, a PhD becomes necessary. The 4-7-year commitment requires substantial dedication-you'll design and conduct an independent research project, often involving multiple field seasons and complex analyses.

Not everyone needs a doctorate. Many fulfilling careers in endangered species work occur at the Master's level. Consider opportunity costs carefully-years in a PhD program mean years not gaining professional experience. Some biologists complete a Master's, build professional knowledge, then pursue a PhD with clearer research questions and established professional networks.

Step-by-Step Timeline

High School: Build a foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Volunteer at nature centers, wildlife rehabilitation facilities, or with local conservation groups. These experiences confirm your interest and provide talking points for college applications.

Undergraduate Years 1-2: Complete core biology requirements while exploring electives in ecology, genetics, and animal behavior. Join field-oriented clubs. Attend guest lectures from visiting scientists. Begin building relationships with faculty whose research interests align with yours.

Undergraduate Years 3-4: Secure a meaningful internship, ideally in endangered species work. Conduct an undergraduate thesis if your program offers it. Take GIS, statistics, and scientific writing courses. Apply to graduate programs during senior year if continuing directly, or seek technician positions if taking time between degrees.

Graduate School (2-3 years for MS): Immerse yourself in your thesis research. Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. Present at regional and national conferences. Apply for competitive grants to demonstrate research independence. Build professional relationships at conferences and through committee membership.

Early Career (0-5 years post-degree): Entry-level biologist positions might involve significant field technician work-collecting data for others' projects, maintaining equipment, managing seasonal crews. These roles build technical expertise and help you determine whether field-intensive careers suit your lifestyle preferences. Seek positions that offer diverse experiences and skill development.

Mid-Career (5-10 years): Transition toward project leadership, designing studies rather than only executing them. Pursue professional certifications like The Wildlife Society's Certified Wildlife Biologist credential. Consider specializing in endangered species policy, recovery planning, or population modeling. Salary and responsibility increase as you demonstrate consistent results.

Senior Career (10+ years): Lead multi-year recovery programs, supervise interdisciplinary teams, or influence policy at state or federal levels. Some biologists transition toward administration, balancing conservation vision with budget management and personnel supervision. Others remain research-focused, becoming recognized experts in specific species or conservation challenges.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

Technical proficiency forms the foundation of endangered species biology. You'll need strong field identification skills-recognizing species by sight, sound, tracks, or scat. Proficiency with field equipment (GPS units, radio telemetry receivers, camera traps) is expected. Modern positions increasingly require GIS skills for spatial analysis and habitat mapping. Statistical software competency (R, Python, or specialized ecological packages) allows rigorous data analysis. Molecular techniques-DNA extraction, PCR, genetic analysis-become relevant for population genetics work.

Research design and methodology distinguish professional biologists from enthusiastic amateurs. Understanding experimental design, sampling strategies, and statistical power helps you generate defensible findings. You'll need to critically evaluate the existing literature, identify knowledge gaps, and propose research to address them. Scientific writing skills allow clear communication of complex findings to peer reviewers, funding agencies, and the public.

Soft Skills That Matter

Communication bridges science and action. You'll translate technical findings for diverse audiences-regulatory officials need legal justifications, landowners need practical management recommendations, journalists need compelling narratives. Public speaking skills prove valuable when presenting at hearings, conferences, or community meetings. The ability to build trust with stakeholders who may initially oppose conservation measures often determines project success.

Collaboration happens constantly in conservation. Projects involve partnerships across agencies, nonprofits, universities, and private landowners. Successful endangered species biologists navigate these relationships diplomatically, balancing scientific ideals with political realities. Leadership skills become essential as you advance-motivating field crews during challenging conditions, mediating conflicts between collaborators, and inspiring others to prioritize conservation despite competing pressures.

Adaptability and resilience separate sustainable careers from burnout. Field conditions test physical and mental stamina-long hours in extreme weather, isolation from support networks, and exposure to biting insects or dangerous wildlife. Emotional resilience helps when projects fail despite your best efforts, or when political decisions override scientific recommendations. The ability to maintain long-term commitment while accepting short-term setbacks defines successful conservation careers.

Physical Demands

Field work requires physical fitness appropriate to your study system. Hiking long distances over rough terrain, carrying heavy equipment, and working in all weather conditions are common. Some specializations demand specific skills-marine work might require SCUBA certification, bird studies might involve predawn surveys, and large mammal tracking might require backcountry survival skills. Acknowledge these realities when choosing your specialization-honest self-assessment prevents mismatches between your capabilities and the demands of your position.

Career Specializations & Focus Areas

Endangered species biology encompasses diverse specializations. Some biologists focus on specific taxonomic groups-ornithologists study threatened birds, herpetologists study amphibians and reptiles, and mammalogists might specialize in large carnivores or small rodents. Botanists work with endangered plant species, while marine biologists address the decline of ocean species. Deep taxonomic expertise allows you to recognize subtle behavioral or ecological signals others might miss.

Habitat specialization offers another pathway. Freshwater ecologists address threats to river and lake species from dams, pollution, and invasive species. Coastal specialists work at the interface of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, managing threats to shorebirds, sea turtles, and estuarine fish. Forest specialists understand how timber management, fire suppression, and climate change affect woodland species. Grassland ecologists work in increasingly fragmented prairie ecosystems, addressing the impacts of agricultural intensification.

Methodological specialization distinguishes some careers. Population modeling specialists use mathematical approaches to predict species trajectories and evaluate management scenarios. Genetic specialists assess population health through DNA analysis, revealing inbreeding, hybridization, or evolutionary distinctiveness. Remote sensing experts analyze satellite imagery to track habitat loss or predict suitable reintroduction sites. Disease ecologists investigate how pathogens contribute to species declines, a trend that is particularly relevant as wildlife disease emergence accelerates.

Geographic focus shapes career trajectories. Tropical specialists address biodiversity loss in equatorial regions with the highest species richness. Arctic specialists work in rapidly changing polar ecosystems where the effects of climate change are most pronounced. Island specialists understand unique evolutionary dynamics and extinction vulnerability on isolated landmasses. Domestic versus international work appeals to different personalities-some prefer contributing to local landscapes they know intimately, others seek global impact through international conservation initiatives.

Endangered Species Biologist Job Responsibilities

Responsibilities evolve substantially as careers progress. Entry-level positions emphasize data collection and technical support, while senior roles involve strategic planning and program leadership.

Entry-Level & Field Technician Roles

Your early career builds foundational field skills and demonstrates a work ethic. You'll conduct surveys following established protocols, often as part of larger research teams. Data collection must be meticulous-recording weather conditions, GPS coordinates, observation times, and species counts with precision that withstands scientific scrutiny. Equipment maintenance falls to junior staff-cleaning traps, calibrating instruments, and organizing gear to improve efficiency. You'll learn to work independently during long field days while following the senior biologist's instructions carefully.

Documentation tasks consume significant time. Entering field data into databases, checking for errors, and preparing preliminary reports requires attention to detail. You might assist with public outreach-helping at interpretive programs, monitoring trail cameras, or explaining project goals to curious visitors. These experiences develop communication skills while contributing to conservation education.

Mid-Career Biologist Responsibilities

With several years of experience, you'll design portions of research projects and supervise field technicians. Study design becomes your responsibility-determining appropriate sample sizes, selecting survey methods, and anticipating logistical challenges. You'll write substantial sections of reports and scientific manuscripts, translating field observations into coherent narratives. Grant writing might begin at this stage, as you learn to articulate the importance of your research and justify budget requests.

Collaboration intensifies at mid-career. You'll coordinate with landowners to secure access to field sites, negotiate research permits with regulatory agencies, and manage relationships with partner organizations. Data analysis grows more sophisticated-applying advanced statistical models, interpreting complex datasets, and drawing management-relevant conclusions. You might mentor graduate students or train new technicians, developing leadership capabilities.

Senior Biologist & Project Leadership

Senior positions balance fieldwork with strategic oversight. You'll lead multi-year recovery programs involving dozens of collaborators and budgets exceeding $100,000. Project leadership requires synthesizing diverse information streams-field data, stakeholder concerns, funding constraints, regulatory requirements-into coherent action plans. You'll approve research protocols, evaluate team performance, and make difficult decisions when projects encounter unexpected challenges.

Policy influence expands at senior levels. Your expertise informs decisions under the Endangered Species Act, habitat management plans, and international conservation agreements. You might testify before legislative committees, explaining the scientific rationale for conservation actions to elected officials. Media interactions increase-journalists seek expert quotes, and you become the public face of conservation programs. These responsibilities require diplomacy, clear communication, and the ability to defend scientific positions under scrutiny.

Administrative duties occupy growing time shares. Budget management, personnel supervision, and strategic planning compete with the field and lab work that initially attracted you to biology. Some biologists embrace this transition, thereby influencing conservation at the landscape scale. Others seek positions that maintain a focus on field research, accepting lower administrative advancement to preserve hands-on scientific engagement. Neither path is superior-both contribute essential conservation functions.

Professional development continues throughout senior careers. You'll review manuscripts for scientific journals, serve on grant review panels, and mentor early-career professionals. Conference presentations shift from presenting your research toward synthesizing field-wide progress and identifying emerging research priorities. Your professional network expands to include national and international colleagues, facilitating collaborative projects that address conservation challenges beyond single-agency jurisdictions.

Professional Organizations & Resources

Professional societies connect endangered species biologists across institutions and career stages. These organizations provide networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy for conservation funding and policy.

Society of American Foresters (SAF): While forestry-focused, SAF brings together conservation scientists working in woodland ecosystems. The organization offers guidance to landowners on managing forested lands to benefit threatened species while maintaining economic productivity. Regional chapters host workshops on forest management practices compatible with endangered species recovery.

Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA): For biologists working with captive breeding programs, AZA provides essential resources. The organization coordinates Species Survival Plans that manage genetic diversity across institutional collections. AZA allocates millions annually toward threatened species research, focusing on reproductive biology, husbandry innovations, and reintroduction protocols. Conferences showcase cutting-edge work in ex situ conservation.

Center for Biological Diversity (CBD): CBD combines biological science with legal advocacy and public education. The organization employs biologists who prepare scientific documentation supporting Endangered Species Act petitions. If you're interested in conservation through litigation and policy reform rather than exclusively field research, CBD represents one career pathway. Their work demonstrates how biological expertise translates into regulatory protection.

Additional organizations worth exploring include The Wildlife Society (broad professional development for wildlife biologists), the Ecological Society of America (a research-oriented ecology network), and the Society for Conservation Biology (an international conservation focus). Student memberships typically cost less and provide access to journals, job boards, and mentorship programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an endangered species biologist and a wildlife biologist?

Wildlife biologists study all wildlife populations, from abundant game species to rare specialists. Endangered species biologists focus exclusively on species threatened with extinction, requiring specialized knowledge of conservation law, population viability analysis, and recovery planning. While all endangered species biologists are wildlife biologists, the reverse isn't true-the specialization demands additional expertise in regulatory frameworks and crisis intervention strategies.

Do I need a PhD to work as an endangered species biologist?

Most field biologist and project coordinator positions require only a Master's degree, though some openings accept bachelor's degree holders with substantial field experience. PhDs are necessary for academic positions, high-level research leadership roles, or policy positions that require deep specialized expertise. Many fulfilling careers in endangered species work happen at the Master's level-doctorates suit specific career goals but aren't universal requirements.

Can I specialize in a specific animal group, like birds or sea turtles?

Absolutely. Many endangered species biologists develop deep expertise in particular taxonomic groups. Specialization typically begins during graduate research and continues throughout a career. Ornithologists might focus on grassland songbirds, herpetologists on desert tortoises, or marine mammal specialists on whales. This focused expertise makes you the go-to expert for specific conservation challenges.

What's the job market really like for endangered species biologists?

Competition is significant, with only 2% projected growth through 2034, adding approximately 300 positions nationwide over the decade. However, turnover from retirements creates additional openings beyond those made by new positions. Entry-level technician roles are accessible but temporary and lower-paying. Career positions requiring advanced degrees are competitive-expect to apply to dozens of positions. Geographic flexibility, diverse skill sets, and strong professional networks dramatically improve prospects.

How much travel is involved in this career?

Travel varies dramatically by position. Some biologists work within single parks or refuges, traveling minimally. Others split their time among multiple field sites, requiring regular trips. International conservation roles might involve months abroad annually. Seasonal patterns matter-breeding seasons might require extended field camps, while winters allow more time at home offices. Evaluate your tolerance for travel honestly when considering positions.

Can I work with endangered species without a biology degree?

Career changers can enter the field through strategic education. If you have a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field, you might pursue a Master's degree in conservation biology or wildlife management to build the necessary credentials. Some positions value diverse backgrounds-combining biology with law, policy, communications, or environmental education creates unique career niches. However, core biological knowledge remains essential for professional positions.

How does climate change affect endangered species biology careers?

Climate change intensifies demand for expertise on endangered species while complicating conservation work. Species ranges shift, phenological mismatches emerge, and novel threats appear. This creates new research questions and management challenges, potentially expanding career opportunities for biologists who understand both ecology and climate science. However, slow overall job growth (2% through 2034) means these emerging needs may not translate into proportional increases in positions, given budget constraints.

Key Takeaways

  • Specialized Conservation Focus: Endangered species biologists concentrate exclusively on threatened and endangered wildlife, requiring expertise beyond general wildlife biology in conservation law, population genetics, and recovery planning.
  • Competitive Career Field: The field offers a median salary of $72,860 with modest 2% projected growth through 2034, adding approximately 300 positions nationwide. Competition is significant, requiring strategic skill development, geographic flexibility, and patience during extended job searches.
  • Educational Pathways Vary: While Master's degrees are often preferred for professional positions, requirements vary by employer and role. Bachelor's degree holders with exceptional field experience can access some positions, while PhDs are suited to academic careers and high-level leadership roles, though they aren't universally necessary.
  • Diverse Work Environments: Opportunities span federal and state agencies, nonprofit conservation organizations, academic research institutions, private consulting firms, and international conservation initiatives. Each sector offers distinct advantages in mission focus, salary structure, and work-life balance.
  • Multidisciplinary Skill Set Required: Success demands technical field skills, statistical and GIS proficiency, strong communication abilities, and emotional resilience. The career combines outdoor fieldwork with data analysis, report writing, and stakeholder collaboration-adaptability across these domains distinguishes effective conservation biologists.

Ready to start your endangered species biology career? Explore environmental science and wildlife biology degree programs that prepare you for conservation leadership.

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author avatar
Dr. Marcus Hale, PhD
Dr. Marcus Hale is a dedicated environmental scientist with a deep commitment to conservation and sustainable solutions. Holding a PhD from the University of Florida, he has spent over 15 years in the field, from hands-on restoration projects with The Nature Conservancy to advising on policy and climate resilience. His research and publications focus on protecting ecosystems and guiding the next generation toward impactful green careers. Outside of work, Marcus enjoys kayaking in Florida's waterways and volunteering with local environmental education programs.

Endangered Species Biology - Related Degrees

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for zoologists and wildlife biologists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.

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