Zoologists And Wildlife Biologists Salary: How Much Do They Make?

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Zoologists and wildlife biologists are professionals who study animals and their habitats. They work in different settings, such as research laboratories, wildlife parks, and natural reserves. If you're interested in becoming a zoologist or wildlife biologist, you might be wondering about the salary potential of this career. In this article, we'll explore the average salaries of zoologists and wildlife biologists, what factors affect their pay, and what to expect in terms of job outlook and employment opportunities.

What is the Average Salary of Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for zoologists and wildlife biologists was $67,760 as of May 2020. This means that half of all zoologists and wildlife biologists earned less than this amount, while the other half earned more. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $42,550, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $111,780.

What Factors Affect the Salary of Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?

Several factors can affect the salary of zoologists and wildlife biologists, including:

Level of Education

Zoologists and wildlife biologists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in zoology, wildlife biology, or a related field. However, some positions may require a master's or doctoral degree. The higher your level of education, the more you can expect to earn.

Years of Experience

As with most professions, the more experience you have, the higher your salary potential. Zoologists and wildlife biologists who have been working in their field for several years may earn more than those who are just starting out.

Employer

The type of employer you work for can also affect your salary. Zoologists and wildlife biologists who work for the federal government tend to earn higher salaries than those who work for state or local governments, or private companies.

Job Location

The location of your job can also impact your salary. Zoologists and wildlife biologists who work in urban areas tend to earn more than those who work in rural areas. Additionally, some states may have higher salaries for these professionals than others.

What is the Job Outlook for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?

The BLS projects that employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists will grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the need to manage wildlife populations and habitats, as well as to address environmental concerns.

What Are the Employment Opportunities for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists?

Zoologists and wildlife biologists can work in a variety of settings, including:

Research Laboratories

Zoologists and wildlife biologists who work in research laboratories study animal behavior, genetics, and physiology. They may also conduct experiments to understand how animals respond to different environments and stimuli.

Wildlife Parks and Zoos

Zoologists and wildlife biologists who work in wildlife parks and zoos are responsible for caring for animals, designing habitats, and educating the public about different species. They may also conduct research to improve animal welfare and conservation efforts.

Natural Reserves and Conservation Organizations

Zoologists and wildlife biologists who work for natural reserves and conservation organizations are responsible for managing and protecting wildlife populations and habitats. They may also conduct research to understand the impact of human activities on wildlife and the environment.

Question and Answer About Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists Salary

Q: How much do entry-level zoologists and wildlife biologists make?

A: The salary for entry-level zoologists and wildlife biologists can vary depending on factors such as location, employer, and level of education. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for zoologists and wildlife biologists in their first year on the job is $46,540.

Q: How does the salary of zoologists and wildlife biologists compare to other professions?

A: The salary of zoologists and wildlife biologists is higher than the median annual salary for all occupations, which was $41,950 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.

Q: Can zoologists and wildlife biologists earn more than $100,000 per year?

A: Yes, zoologists and wildlife biologists who have extensive experience and advanced degrees can earn more than $100,000 per year, although this is not typical for most professionals in this field.

What Do People Say About Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists Salary?

People who work in the field of zoology and wildlife biology generally find the salary to be fair and commensurate with the level of education and experience required for the job. However, some professionals feel that the salary could be higher given the importance of the work they do in protecting and conserving wildlife.

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists Salary Summary Table

The following table summarizes the average annual salary, median annual salary, and hourly wage for zoologists and wildlife biologists as of May 2020, according to the BLS. | Salary | Average | Median | Hourly Wage | |--------|---------|--------|-------------| | Entry-Level | $46,540 | $46,540 | $22.38 | | Experienced | $84,320 | $67,760 | $40.56 | | Top 10% | $111,780 | N/A | N/A |

Conclusion

If you're considering a career as a zoologist or wildlife biologist, it's important to understand the salary potential of this field. While the median annual salary for these professionals is higher than the median for all occupations, the salary can vary depending on factors such as education, experience, employer, and location. However, the job outlook for zoologists and wildlife biologists is positive, with employment expected to grow in the coming years.