What is the average salary of a Wildlife Biologist?
I’d say that the average salary of a Wildlife Biologist is probably more like 40k. This is assuming you mean “wildlife biologist” as a job title, rather than the certification title given by The Wildlife Society. Assistant Professors in Wildlife Biology may make 60k+, sure. But if you’re working as a wildlife biologist for a state agency, you’re more likely to be at 30-50k for most of your tenure. Some state agencies pay much less. Also, this 30-50k range is given for people with either (1) a Master’s or (2) many years of experience. It is not uncommon for wildlife internships to pay $100-$150/wk for someone with a bachelor’s, and many salaried positions for new graduates begin around 25k. Sorry, but I think this is far more realistic than a 63k average. That is simply not the case. Wildlife biologist positions can certainly provide a living wage, but it’s doubtful you’ll get rich unless you’re a professor or in consulting. It requires dedication to get to the decent positions, though.
Well, starting pay for a Wildlife Biologist is around 38,000. The reason the salary can get so high is that wildlife biologists can also become teachers assistants and professors (given that you have the appropriate level of education). Basically, don’t worry about the money. If you love what you do, you’ll be good at it. If you’re good at it, you get paid well.
