Zoologist & Wildlife Biologist

Quick Facts:
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals, those both in captivity and in the wild, and how they interact with their ecosystems.

Most zoologists and wildlife biologists work full time. Zoologists and wildlife biologists work in a variety of settings, including offices and laboratories. Depending on their job, they also may spend time outdoors, gathering data and studying animals in their natural habitats.

Zoologists and wildlife biologists typically need a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions and may need a master’s degree for higher level jobs. They typically need a Ph.D. to lead research projects.

The median annual wage for zoologists and wildlife biologists was $72,860 in May 2024.

Employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations.

Despite limited employment growth, about 1,400 openings for zoologists and wildlife biologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for zoologists and wildlife biologists.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of zoologists and wildlife biologists with similar occupations.

Learn more about zoologists and wildlife biologists by visiting additional resources, including O
* NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.

Last Modified Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025